Moscow - In the latest frictions between Moscow and Kiev over gas deliveries, Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin on Thursday warned Ukraine to be punctual with its payments or face another possible cuto-off.

According to the Interfax agency, Putin said that if Ukraine did not make its payments for February by this Saturday, there would be a cut-off.

This in turn could have consequences for consumers in Europe, the Russian government leader warned.

His comments came as meanwhile the Kiev government on Thursday contended that it had already transferred most of the sum of money owed to Russia. (dpa)