The West is trying to force Russia to accept an “ultimatum” on the Ukraine conflict by demanding a ceasefire before peace talks, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said.

In an interview with TASS news agency on Wednesday, Russia’s top diplomat argued that Western countries first want Moscow and Kiev to agree to a ceasefire, after which a multinational force led by France and the UK would be deployed before real negotiations begin.

“What does this mean? It is an ultimatum,” Lavrov said.

Lavrov said Russia would not accept such conditions, adding that the country has not abandoned its principles, despite external pressure.