German Chancellor Angela Merkel and President Vladimir Putin have not been holding any secret talks on Ukraine, spokeswoman for Merkel said.
Christiane Wirtz said the reports published by the Independent are groundless, BBC Russian service reported.
The article titled “Land for gas: Merkel and Putin discussed secret deal could end Ukraine crisis” said the talks between Russian and German leaders are aimed at reaching compromise over Ukraine.
Merkel allegedly offered Putin to stop funding and supplies to pro-Russian activists, to agree to a gas deal acceptable for Ukraine in exchange for recognizing Russia's control over Crimea and pledges not to let Ukraine join NATO.