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Putin’s Trip to Minsk Raises Hope on Ukraine Deal

Putin’s Trip to Minsk Raises Hope on Ukraine Deal
Putin’s Trip to Minsk Raises Hope on Ukraine Deal

Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed he is traveling to Minsk for crucial peace talks with Ukrainian, French and German leaders.

The presence of the leaders has raised a sliver of hope that a deal may be brokered after a Russian diplomatic source said, “The presidents aren’t traveling for no reason.”

The talks hinge on re-establishing a ceasefire that lasts, the withdrawal of heavy weapons and Kiev’s consent to give autonomy to Russian-speaking regions, a crucial point for the pro-Russian forces on the eve of the summit, Euronews said in a report.

A failure to reach a deal could lead to an escalation of the conflict which has already claimed 5,000 lives since it began in April last year.

The meeting is being seen as a last ditch diplomatic push, as the US considers sending weapons to Kiev, though last night Obama emphasized the need for a political solution in a phone call with Putin.

 

Financialtribune.com