The Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has appeared to rule out seeking aid from Russia, saying he will continue negotiations for a debt agreement with Europe.

The left-wing government is on a diplomatic drive of European capitals, as it seeks to replace Greece’s bailout with the EU, the European Central Bank and International Monetary Fund.

Tsipras was speaking during a visit to Cyprus – his first foreign trip as prime minister, in line with tradition.

Asked whether he would seek aid from Russia, Tsipras told a news conference that a deal with Europe was all that was being considered.

But he added that he wanted the troika inspection process replaced by direct negotiations with creditors.

“This mature and necessary development, if it is confirmed, will be a very good start, a significant, institutional, positive step not only for Greece and Cyprus but also for all of Europe,” Alexis Tsipras said.

Despite vowing to ditch austerity conditions, the new Greek government is ta