Russian Foreign Minister Serguei Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry expressed different views regarding the situation in Ukraine, but highlighted their willingness to seek a diplomatic resolution. Contacts on the matter began on Sunday in Paris, where both officials met, while Kerry will meet today with French Foreign Affairs Minister Laurent Fabius.
“We have expressed different points of view with regards to the causes of the crisis, but have agreed on the need to find a common ground to express a joint stance on the diplomatic solution to this situation that corresponds to the interests of the Ukrainian people,” Lavrov noted.
According to the Foreign Minister, the need to reach a constitutional reform in that country was discussed at the meeting, something “we would support along with our U.S. partners, but neither Russia, nor the United States can impose their own specific plans on Ukraine.”
Russia “is convinced that federalization is an essential component in that reform,” emphasized Lavrov, noting the importance of guaranteeing unity while taking into account the interests of all the regions in that country, without exception.
Meanwhile, Kerry insisted that Russia must withdraw its troops from the border with Ukraine, but recognized that the forces are on Russian soil and that country must make its own decisions.
Washington also considered it necessary to establish a dialogue with Kiev.
Both parties agreed to consult with their respective governments on the different proposals presented and to continue meetings aimed at finding a diplomatic resolution to the crisis.(PL)