Set a ceasefire ASAP Draghi tells Putin

(ANSA) - ROME, MAR 30 - Premier Mario Draghi on Wednesday told Russian President Vladimir Putin over the phone that a ceasefire in Ukraine should be set as soon as possible, the premier's office said.
    It said Draghi had underscored the importance of establishing a ceasefire as soon as possible in order to protect the civilian population and support negotiating efforts.
    The Italian premier also reaffirmed the Italian government's willingness to contribute to the peace process, in the presence of clear signs of de-escalation on Russia's part, the office said.
    The two leaders agreed on the need to keep in touch on the situation, it said.
    The Kremlin said Putin reported on developments in Tuesday's negotiations in Istanbul between Moscow and Kyiv delegations and on Moscow's request to get gas supply payments in roubles.
    Before the one-hour phone conversation Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio said Rome had recognised "the diplomatic steps taken" after Moscow promised to de-escalate military activity around Kyiv following its invasion of Ukraine.
    But he added that "we will assess the Russian announcements on the basis of the deeds", warning against "delusions".
    Ukraine said Wednesday that Russian vows to pull troops back from Kyiv and Chernihiv had been false. (ANSA).