The Russian president says Moscow's initial tough demands must be met, despite a looming US sanctions deadline.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow hoped for more peace talks with Ukraine but that the momentum of the war was in its favour, signalling no shift in his stance despite a looming sanctions deadline from Washington.

Perhaps it’s time to reduce to zero all deadlines given to Putin to demonstrate a constructive approach. President Trump was very generous and very patient with Putin, trying to find a solution,” the minister wrote.