Poroshenko Says Russia 'Significantly Increased Offensive' against Ukraine since Minsk Deal

Russia has "significantly increased" its offensive against Ukraine since a ceasefire was agreed in Minsk this week, Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko said on Friday.

"Unfortunately after the Minsk agreement, Russia's offensive has significantly increased. We still think that the agreement is in great danger," he added, speaking during a meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

"After what we concluded in Minsk, there are not only attacks against civilians but also against the Minsk agreement," Poroshenko said, referring to shelling of the town of Artemivsk that killed three people including a seven-year-old child.

Meanwhile, the G7 voiced concern about the violence and the build-up of weapons in eastern Ukraine, days before the negotiated ceasefire is due to come into effect.

"We urge all sides to adhere strictly to the provisions of the package and to carry out its measures without delay, starting with a ceasefire on the 15th of February," leaders of the industrialized nations said in a statement.