Putin to Obama: Use your influence to prevent bloodshed in Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin urged his American counterpart on Monday to use the White House’s influence on the Ukrainian government to prevent further “bloodshed” from occurring in the country. ● United States President Barack Obama placed a phone call to Mr. Putin on Monday afternoon (EST) to discuss the ongoing and increasingly tense situation in eastern Ukraine amid growing concerns surrounding the country’s future stability following the recent ousting of Pres. Viktor Yanukovych earlier this year, and the turmoil that has gripped the region ever since. ● According to a statement released after the phone conversation by the Kremlin, Putin dismissed recent reports that peg Russia as being responsible for heated protests that have erupted in eastern Ukraine, where pro-Russian activists have successfully managed to seize a number of local government buildings and police stations. "In response to the president of the United States' expressed concern about Russia's supposed meddling in southeastern Ukraine, the president of Russia noted that such speculations are based on inaccurate information," the press statement read. Putin stressed that protests in several south-east regions of Ukraine are a result of “the Kiev authorities’ unwillingness and inability to take into account the interests of the Russian and Russian-speaking population,” read a Kremlin press service statement.
The Telegraph: Kiev putschists launches "anti-terrorist operation" in the east
Putschist Ukranian "President" Turchynov announces start of "anti-terror operation" in eastern Ukraine
PressTV: Charges of Russia role in Ukraine baseless: Putin
VoR: Russia to take measures if NATO's force configuration changes - Russian envoy
Reuters: Ukraine launches 'gradual' operation, action limited
VoR: Kiev launches military operation in northern Donetsk region
The Saker: The Next 24 Hours Are Crucial For Ukraine