The top general of Tigrayan fighters, Tsadkan Gebretensae, has ruled out negotiations with the Ethiopian government, saying the war is nearing its end.

Gen Tsadkan was quoted by Tigray TV as saying that "there's nothing that can be resolved through negotiations".

The government's communication office has, meanwhile, accused Tigrayan forces of killing dozens of civilians in Kombolcha town.

There is no independent confirmation of the claim, and the rebels have repeatedly denied targeting civilians.