Berlin, Nov 28 (EFE): Ukraine has asked Germany for diesel engines for its troop carriers ahead of a possible Russian "winter offensive" in the eastern part of the country, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavlo Klimkin said in an interview published Friday.

Klimkin told Germany's Bild newspaper that the aid required by Ukraine from Germany went beyond the political and economic support that has been provided by Berlin.

The minister said Russian troop movements in the area have been observed so the Ukrainians needed to be well prepared for a possible winter offensive.

Russia supports separatists seeking to break away from eastern Ukraine and Kiev and Western intelligence agencies say Russian military movements along the border have been stepped up in recent weeks.

Germany, according to Klimlin, could deliver its support simply and quickly through responding to the specific request for the engines.

Kiev urgently needed diesel engines for its troop carriers and it has already asked Germany, the minister said, adding that he was hoping for a quick solution.

Although Germany has backed Ukraine since the outbreak of the conflict, it has advocated a diplomatic solution through negotiating with Russia and acted as a mediator several times.