(VOVworld) – Russia fully backs the Minsk peace agreement in Ukraine, but progress is being stalled by Kiev’s lack of cooperation.

Russia will strive to ensure the full and unconditional implementation of the Minsk Agreement, says Vladimir Putin. (Photo: Alexei Nikolsky/ITAR-TASS)

Russian President Vladimir Putin made the statement in an interview with an Italian newspaper on Saturday, a day before G7 leaders met in Germany. Putin said that parties involved in the conflict are seriously violating the Minsk ceasefire agreement. He emphasized the need of fully respecting the peace deal, urging the Kiev authority to reform its constitution to ensure autonomy for the rebel regions in eastern Ukraine and to be ready for peace talks with opposition forces.