Ukraine says there's still a chance for diplomacy
- 10 years ago
With pro-Russian separatists still occupying government buildings in parts of Ukraine, the country's foreign minister says there is still a chance for diplomacy ahead of peace talks in Geneva.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) UKRAINIAN FOREIGN MINISTER, ANDRIY DESHCHYSTIA, SAYING:
"I think that we still have a chance to de-escalate the situation using the diplomatic means. And we will try hard. We are trying hard - not only Ukraine - but also the United States. However, the time is now, not only to express the concerns, but to look for a more concrete and adequate response to Russia's plans and actions."
He will be meeting with diplomats from the U.S., EU and Russia Thursday in an effort to find a solution to the crisis.
U.S. officials don't foresee a big breakthrough at the talks.
They say its reasonable to assume more sanctions would follow the meeting.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) UKRAINIAN FOREIGN MINISTER, ANDRIY DESHCHYSTIA, SAYING:
"I think that we still have a chance to de-escalate the situation using the diplomatic means. And we will try hard. We are trying hard - not only Ukraine - but also the United States. However, the time is now, not only to express the concerns, but to look for a more concrete and adequate response to Russia's plans and actions."
He will be meeting with diplomats from the U.S., EU and Russia Thursday in an effort to find a solution to the crisis.
U.S. officials don't foresee a big breakthrough at the talks.
They say its reasonable to assume more sanctions would follow the meeting.