Putin rejects ‘outlandish’ ceasefire proposals, says Russian strikes are crippling Ukraine

Russia has responded with strikes against Ukrainian economic infrastructure, including Ukrainian grain exports via the Black Sea.

Andrey Kelin, who served as the Russian ambassador to the UK for over seven years, vacated his post on 21 July, reports The Times.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin has described Ukraine's proposals for a peaceful settlement as "exotic" and unacceptable to Russia.