People cross a destroyed bridge as they evacuate the city of Irpin, northwest of Kyiv, on March 05, 2022. (Photo: AFP/VNA)

He set out Russia's position and said he believed that Ukraine was discussing Moscow's demands with the US and other allies.

Earlier President Vladimir Putin underscored the need to deploy the special military operation in Ukraine to ensure Russia’s security after the West enlarged the membership of the North American Treaty Organization (NATO) up to Russia's borders.

In related news, Western countries are increasing pressure on Russia. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Friday that Canada imposed sanctions on five Russian individuals, including billionaire Roman Abramovich, and is barring 32 Russian firms and entities from purchasing defense equipment or supplies from Canada.

He also did not rule out the possibility of sending Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) jets to support the Ukrainians fleeing.