Ukraine's operations against pro-Russian seperatists ended hopes of realizing a deal agreed at Geneva crisis talks in April, President Vladimir Putin's spokesman told reporters Friday.
Dmitry Peskov claimed the Kiev government launched air raids and military operations in civilian areas at a time when Russia took steps to de-escalate the tension in the country.
- No news from Russia's representative to Kiev
Peskov said they are still waiting to hear from Vladimir Lukin, who was sent to southern Ukraine to mediate the release of an international team of military observers who have been held by pro-Russian Ukrainian rebels.
"We are worried that Lunkin is in the area of military operation along with Russian and foreign journalists," Peskov said, urging Kiev to take all measures necessary to ensure their safety.
On April 17 Russia, Ukraine, U.S. and the EU gathered in Geneva and signed an agreement aimed at defusing the tension in Ukraine. The deal called for a halt to violence and required demonstrators to vacate occupied public buildings. Disarming militias and paramilitary units in the country was another key point of the deal.
englishnews@aa.com.tr
