Zakharova said Russia once again is affirming its desire to achieve a final, fair settlement of the crisis, but that progress towards a resolution cannot be achieved without tackling the root causes of the conflict.

She said it will be necessary to agree on the main principles of the settlement, the timing of a peace agreement, and details of a possible ceasefire if the necessary agreements are reached.

Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday that Moscow and Kiev must prepare for contacts to develop the joint memorandum.

He welcomed renewed contacts between Russia and Ukraine, and said there is no deadline for completing the memorandum.