Russia has dismissed an ultimatum from European leaders to accept a ceasefire proposal from Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "The language of ultimatums is unacceptable for Russia, it is not suitable. You can't use such language with Russia." His comments came after leaders from Europe threatened further sanctions on Russia if it failed to join a truce.
France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot on Monday (May 12) urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to accept. German government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius said if the ceasefire didn't stand by the end of yesterday, then the European side would keep to an agreement to implement further sanctions.
Russia shunned a ceasefire proposal tabled by the US and European leaders, but offered direct talks with Ukraine in Turkey on Thursday. Kyiv, along with European allies, had demanded that Moscow accept a ceasefire starting yesterday before holding peace talks. Russia effectively rejected that proposal and instead called for direct negotiations in Istanbul.
THIS IS A LIVE BLOG. SCROLL DOWN FOR THE LATEST UPDATES
You may also like
Escape to the Country star Jules Hudson flooded with support as he shares announcement
Chelsea can make £20m profit on player who has never played for them with help from Arsenal
Tesco apologises after accidentally sending Clubcard email to shoppers
Not for IIM: HM Bangur runs a Rs 1,00,000 crore empire, but still took the CAT exam every year. The reason will inspire you
Tragedy as 10-year-old boy dies and father in intensive care after off-road crash
