CRI听力:Russia, Ukraine Agree on Ways to Implement Cease-fire as Deadline Approaches

Russia and Ukraine have reportedly agreed to work on implementing a ceasefire between rebel groups and government forces in the east of Ukraine.

This follows a teleconference among the leaders of Russia, Ukraine, France and Germany.

At the same time, Russian President Vladimir Putin is calling an extension of the current ceasefire agreement.

Meanwhile, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe says it has suspended further monitoring activities in eastern Ukraine due to security concerns.

This comes after eight of its observers were held hostage for a month before being released unharmed.

Alexander Hug, deputy chief monitor in Ukraine, says the organization will consider resuming its mission after the security situation in the region improves.

"We need weapons to disappear, we need checkpoints to disappear and we need freedom of movement. The safety and security of our colleagues is our number one concern."

Despite the push for peace, clashes are continuing on the ground in eastern Ukraine, with five government soldiers killed and a Russian TV cameraman shot dead while working in Donetsk.