Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree recognising two separatist regions - Donetsk and Luhansk - in eastern Ukraine as independent entities. Putin announced his decision in a televised address and in phone calls to the leaders of Germany and France, who voiced disappointment, the Kremlin said. The move could torpedo a last-minute bid for a summit with US President Joe Biden to prevent Russia from invading Ukraine. Australian Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews told reporters on Monday: "Our preference is also for there to be a diplomatic response to any unrest in the world. Sanctions is something that we could consider, but we are looking for a peaceful resolution of the matters between Russia and the Ukraine, and we will continue to promote a diplomatic response." Russia's rouble currency extended its losses as Putin spoke on the issue, falling 3.3 per cent on the day to 79.83 per US dollar. Putin held a long address, delving into history as far back as t...