Ukraine's interior minister says that three tanks have crossed into Ukrainian territory from Russia and were attacked by his country's forces.

The Interfax news agency quoted Arsen Avakov as saying that a "column" with armored vehicles crossed from Russia through border control points controlled by pro-Russian separatists near the Dyakove village in eastern Ukraine.

Avakov said that "part of this column has been destroyed" by Ukrainian forces.

No independent confirmation was immediately available.

He said the incursion took place despite Russian statements of interest in a peaceful solution and intent to increase border controls.