MOSCOW, June 19. /ITAR-TASS/. Russia's high-ranking diplomat has noted the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine and the increase of the refugee flow.

"Unfortunately, despite the Ukrainian authorities' statements on their willingness to start the dialogue, reports prove that the de-escalation continues in the country," the Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman, Alexander Lukashevich said on Thursday.

"The flow of refugees increases," he said.