Russia, like Ukraine, must “undertake to implement the points contained in the Geneva agreement, because there is no alternative to dialogue”. The comment was made by Foreign Minister Federica Mogherini, who met her Russian opposite number in the margins of the Council of Europe ministerial in Vienna. “Russia too”, she added, “must play its part in reining in the reactions on the ground”. The Ukrainian crisis was a key topic for discussion during the two days of meetings by Council of Europe’s foreign ministers. The event also saw the transfer of the chairmanship from Austria to Azerbaijan.
Italy hoping for agreed reforms
“To achieve a de-escalation in Ukraine, Kiev too must make a rational and reasonable use of its instruments on the ground”, observed Minister Mogherini. “A responsible approach is needed on all sides, especially within Ukraine’s borders. Italy is hoping for a reform process, including constitutional reform, that keeps pace with the electoral process”, she added.
EU appealing, especially to Russia, for implementation of Geneva agreement
The European Union is making every effort to see the Geneva agreement for a de-escalation in Ukraine implemented promptly. For this to occur, it is appealing to all parties concerned, and especially to Russia. This was the position expressed by Maja Kocijancic, High Representative Catherine Ashton’s spokesperson, in Brussels. The agreement of 17 April is even more important in the run-up to the presidential elections on 25 May, she added.
