Russia has again slammed a new Ukrainian law on autonomy for territories held by pro-Russia forces in eastern Ukraine. It says the legislation violates the peace deal.
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov hit out at Kiev's requirement that before autonomy is granted, pro-Russians must hold local elections under Ukrainian law. Lavrov called the new legislation a departure from the February ceasefire deal and said Moscow WILL work to stop it. Self-government for pro-Russian areas is a key part of the deal. Ukraine's MPs have approved changes to the special status law. The amendments have envisaged the pullout of all armed groups from Donetsk and Luhansk. Kiev says elections will have to be held without the presence of what it calls mercenaries and with open access for Ukrainian media.