Kerry: Russia Wants Diplomatic Solution To Ukraine

Following four hours of talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Secretary of State John Kerry says Russia is committed to a diplomatic solution to the Ukraine crisis.

“We both made suggestions as to how that will be achieved … and I will return to Washington to consult with President Obama on his choices,” Kerry said at a news conference in Paris. “We are trying to find a way to defuse this.”

Kerry said Lavrov indicated Russia “wants to support” Ukraine in its move toward independence but said the massing of Russian troops has created “a climate of fear and intimidation.”

“Is it smart at this moment in time to have that number of troops amassed on a border when you are sending a message that you want to de-escalate and move in the other direction?” Kerry said.

Kerry said Russia and the United States agreed to work with Ukraine on several issues: the rights of national minorities; language rights; the demobilization and disarmament of provocateurs; a constitutional reform process; and free and fair elections monitored by the international community.

But no real progress can be made until the troops are pulled back, Kerry said.

By: Alan

Alan Colmes is the publisher of Liberaland.