The president of the autonomous Spanish region of Catalonia has failed to clarify whether he has declared independence, in a letter to Madrid.

Spain had issued a Monday deadline for Carles Puigdemont to clarify his intent - or face direct rule.

Instead, the Catalan leader called for negotiation over the next two months.

Mr Puigdemont declared independence last week after a controversial referendum - but immediately suspended the declaration to allow for talks.