Ukrainian soldiers walk near a checkpoint. (Photo: AFP)

(VOVworld) - The US described Russia’s withdrawal of its forces from Ukraine, announced by Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on Wednesday, as "a good, tiny first step".

Poroshenko said Friday's ceasefire, the first backed by both Kiev and Moscow since the conflict broke out 5 months ago, has significantly improved security in Ukraine's eastern region.
The US said the ceasefire is being honored by all parties and that will influence its decision whether to impose more sanctions on Russia.