Russian and German leaders jointly call for urgent stabilization measures in Ukraine
MOSCOW. Feb 20 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin and German Chancellor Angela Merkel discussed the latest "dramatic developments" in Ukraine over the phone on Wednesday, the Kremlin press service said.
"The president and the chancellor voiced the most serious concern over the sharp escalation of the internal confrontation that entailed multiple casualties," the press service said.
"Putin and Merkel said they share the opinion concerning the need to take urgent measures in order to stabilize the situation in Ukraine," it said.
"Putin emphasized the importance of Western countries' decision to refrain from any accusatory approach toward the national authorities of Ukraine, as well as the importance of sternly condemning the opposition forces responsible for organizing these unlawful extremist and terrorist actions," the press service said.
The Russian and German leaders agreed to continue discussions on this matter, it said.