NEWSLINK: U.S., EU, Russia Talks Working Toward Joint Statement on Ukraine; First Sign That Geneva Discussions are Making Progress
[“U.S., EU, Russia Talks Working Toward Joint Statement on Ukraine; First Sign That Geneva Discussions are Making Progress” – Wall Street Journal – Laurence Norman – April 17, 2014]
The Wall Street Journal reports on unfolding talks in Geneva between the foreign ministers of Ukraine, Russia, the U.S. and the European Union. While there reportedly was mention of a joint statement as a sign of progress, it was not yet clear if all four parties would come to agreement on one.
The Thursday meeting represented the highest-level talks between Russia and Ukraine since the annexation of Crimea. There are hopes of an easing of tensions, yet not necessarily an expectation of major breakthroughs.
Thursday’s meeting, which started late morning in Geneva, is the highest-level direct talks between Moscow and Kiev since Russia’s annexation of Crimea.
Western diplomats had said no major breakthrough is likely but that they hoped the talks would start a process which could ease tensions …
Pro-Russian separatists have seized government buildings in a number of towns in eastern Ukraine in recent days. Washington has accused Russia of backing the violence.
Russia, which has tens of thousands of troops on Ukraine’s border, has repeatedly denied intervening in Ukraine …