Poroshenko: Ukraine did not agreed to federalization in Minsk talks

MINSK, Belarus – Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko says talks in Minsk did not include any agreement on autonomy for the rebel-held areas in eastern Ukraine.

Russia-backed separatists have been fighting government forces since April. Their early demands of federalization culminated in a May referendum for independence.

Poroshenko told reporters Thursday Ukraine has not agreed to the federalization of the country or even autonomy to the region.

The Ukrainian leader earlier said the parties in Minsk agreed to withdraw heavy weaponry from the front line and help Ukraine reclaim the control of the border with Russia.