DHAKA: Diplomatic efforts are under way to end renewed fighting in eastern Ukraine.

French President Francois Hollande and German Chancellor Angela Merkel held urgent talks in the capital Kiev, presenting a new peace initiative.

US Secretary of State John Kerry, who is also in Kiev, said the US wanted a diplomatic solution, but would not close its eyes to Russian aggression, reports the BBC.

Fighting between Ukrainian forces and pro-Russian rebels has killed nearly 5,400 people since April, the UN says.

Ukraine and the West have accused Russia of arming rebels in eastern Ukraine and sending regular troops across the border.

Russia denies direct involvement but says some Russian volunteers are fighting alongside the rebels.

BDST: 0949 HRS, FEB 06, 2015