PARIS (Reuters) - Russia and Ukraine must aim to scale back tensions in the wake of Russia’s capture of three Ukrainian ships, said French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian on Tuesday.

“We want all sides to show restraint,” Le Drian told reporters at a briefing after talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.

Over the weekend, Russia captured three Ukrainian naval ships and took their crew prisoner, which in turn led to Ukraine imposing martial law this week for 30 days in parts of the country most vulnerable to an attack from Russia.

Le Drian said he had asked Russia to make a gesture in releasing the Ukrainian boats and sailors.

He added he would call his Ukrainian counterpart as part of attempts to de-escalate the situation. At the briefing with Le Drian, Russia’s Lavrov described Ukraine’s actions as “provocations.”

Le Drian did not answer, when asked about any new sanctions on Russia or changes to the freedom of naval movement in the region.