Russia is ready for a ceasefire with Ukraine at any time, but the prospect is "unrealistic" and unacceptable if Kyiv and the West insist on Kremlin’s military defeat, Russian Ambassador to the UK Andrey Kelin said in an interview with The Times.

Another Russian spring military offensive is likely to take place in the coming weeks when the weather improves, Kelin also said. He acknowledged China's crucial political and economic support for Moscow, but pointed out that Beijing's proposals for a peaceful solution were just a framework, not a detailed plan. According to Kelin, China could not dictate terms to Russia and it was not the only country offering to be mediator.

The time for negotiations with Russia to end the war has not come yet, French President Emmanuel Macron said in an interview with "Les Echos" and added it was “military time” now.

Translation: Al. Markov