Lavrov Rules out New Talks on Ukraine without Rebels

Local Editor

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday there were no new international talks planned for now on Ukraine and that progress in de-escalating the crisis was possible only if the rival sides in Ukraine held direct talks.

Lavrov, speaking at a joint news conference with Uganda's foreign minister in Moscow, also reiterated the Kremlin's position that Russia respected the outcome of the self-rule referendum held on Sunday in Ukraine's east.

"No solution to the Ukraine crisis could be reached if authorities do not engage in a dialogue with opponents of Kiev's regime", Lavrov said.

He further stressed the importance of a "national dialogue" in Ukraine based on a proposal by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe [OSCE].

He nevertheless added he remained skeptical that any talks could take place.
According to ITAR-TASS, Lavrov also ruled out the prospect of a new meeting on Ukraine.
His words come amid reports that self-government in eastern Ukraine has been supported by an overwhelming majority on Sunday's local polls.

Kremlin officials were quoted by the agency as saying that Moscow would treat with 'respect' the expression of Donetsk and Luhansk population's will.
They also said they hoped that its results would lead to a substantial dialogue between Kiev's government and east Ukrainian representatives.

All ballots were declared processed in Donetsk Monday morning.
Official results are expected later during the day.

Source: News Agencies, Edited by website team