Putin says Ukraine's 'provocative acts' will worsen situation

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Friday that an escalation of tensions would not achieve the outcome sought by Kiev and could only worsen the situation in Ukraine.

"They must understand that no provocative acts or escalation of tensions will deliver the outcome they seek. Such moves will only make the situation worse for them," Putin said at a press briefing.

He said Russia's military responses had prompted Kiev to seek ceasefire arrangements covering several areas, including attacks on energy facilities and airstrikes.

Russia has begun responding to what he described as actions taken by Ukraine, including an alleged bid to impose a naval blockade and strikes on storage facilities and civilian infrastructure, he said, adding that, according to Russian assessments, Ukraine had damaged more than 100 vessels in the Black Sea.