Vladimir Putin is planning a fresh ground invasion of Ukraine, despite Western pleas for a ceasefire, Volodymyr Zelensky has warned.

Russian troops are massing across the border from Ukraine’s Sumy region and preparing for a new ground offensive into Ukraine’s north east, Mr Zelensky said.

Any attempt at a new incursion would fly in the face of US-led attempts to have Putin agree to a 30-day truce.

“This indicates an intention to attack our Sumy region. We are aware of this, and will counter it,” said the Ukrainian leader.

“I would like all partners to understand exactly what Putin is planning, what he is preparing for, and what he will be ignoring.

“The build-up of Russian forces indicates that Moscow intends to keep ignoring diplomacy. It is clear that Russia is prolonging the war.”