Zelensky: 'World must respond' if Russia does not agree to ceasefire

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday urged allies to impose more sanctions on Moscow should Russia not agree to an unconditional ceasefire at ongoing talks in Istanbul, Turkey.

"Our number one priority is a full, unconditional, and honest ceasefire. This must happen immediately to stop the killing and create a solid basis for diplomacy," said Zelensky, addressing fellow leaders at the European Political Community summit in Tirana.

If the Russian representatives in Istanbul are not to agree to a ceasefire then "the world must respond," he said.

"There needs to be a strong reaction, including sanctions Russia's energy sector and banks," Zelensky added.

"Pressure must continue to rise until real progress is made. Ukraine is ready to take all realistic steps to end this war. I call on (Russian President Vladimir) Putin to give his delegation real authority."

Zelensky stressed that "the Ukrainian delegation has a mandate to make decisions."

"This week we had a real chance to take important steps toward ending this war. If only Putin had not been afraid to come to Turkey," the Ukrainian president said, alluding to Putin's absence from the negotiations.