Russian President says Russia cannot agree to a ceasefire unless Ukraine agrees to take irreversible steps that are acceptable to Moscow. Vladimir Putin spoke to media in Astana, Kazakhstan, after attending a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

Asked about a possible ceasefire, he said Moscow cannot allow the enemy to use one to improve its position, arm itself or equip itself.

“We need to ensure that the opposing side agrees to take steps that are irreversible and acceptable to the Russian Federation. A ceasefire is impossible without such agreement”, - added Russian leader.

Last month, Putin said he would acquiesce to holding peace talks if Kyiv agrees to withdraw its troops and begins to do so from the four Ukrainian regions in eastern and southern Ukraine that Russia has unilaterally annexed in the conflict. Ukraine has flatly rejected the idea.