WASHINGTON
US Secretary of State John Kerry called for "utmost restraint" during his phone conversation with the Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Saturday, said an official from the U.S. State Department.
Kerry called his Russian counterpart Lavrov to continue discussions, that began in Europe last week, on diplomatic steps to de-escalate the situation in Ukraine, and to restore Ukraine's unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Secretary underscored U.S.' readiness to work with partners and allies to facilitate direct dialogue between Ukraine and Russia.
In addition, he clarified that the continued military escalation and provocation in Crimea or elsewhere in Ukraine, along with steps to annex Crimea to Russia, would close any available space for diplomacy and urged the utmost restraint.
Kerry and Lavrov agreed to speak again in the coming days.
englishnews@aa.com.tr
