Russian president Vladimir Putin has demanded Kiev authorities withdraw its troops from the southeastern part of Ukraine. He has also called for a broad national dialogue about reforms to Ukraine’s constitution.
Putin made the comments in a telephone conversation with German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Meanwhile, The Russian Foreign Ministry urged Ukraine not to use armed forces in its southeastern regions, saying it would lead to a catastrophe.
The statement came after Kiev decided to retake administration buildings occupied by activists on Friday, using its armed forces. The ministry urged Ukraine not to "make criminal mistakes" by using forces against Ukraine people.
