Putin Calls Merkel and Hollande Over Ukraine Gas Dispute

By Reuters

June 20, 2014

Russian President Vladimir Putin talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel as they attend the International 70th D-Day Commemoration Ceremony in Ouistreham, France. Kevin Lamarque / Reuters

Russian President Vladimir Putin has discussed the potential cost for Europe of Russia's gas dispute with Ukraine in a telephone call with his German and French counterparts, the Kremlin said in statement.

In a three-way call with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Francois Hollande on Thursday, Putin also voiced "serious concern" over Ukraine's military operation against a pro-Russian uprising in the east, it said.

"They also discussed the potential consequences for Europe's energy security and economy of the failure of negotiations with Kiev on the settlement of its debt for Russian gas deliveries," the Kremlin said.

… we have a small favor to ask.

As you may have heard, The Moscow Times, an independent news source for over 30 years, has been unjustly branded as a "foreign agent" by the Russian government. This blatant attempt to silence our voice is a direct assault on the integrity of journalism and the values we hold dear.

We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. Our commitment to providing accurate and unbiased reporting on Russia remains unshaken. But we need your help to continue our critical mission.

Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just 2. It's quick to set up, and you can be confident that you're making a significant impact every month by supporting open, independent journalism. Thank you.

Continue