The two leaders continued their discussion of the crisis situation in Ukraine.
The German Chancellor expressed satisfaction with Russia’s efforts to help free military observers from a number of European countries, including Germany, that have been detained in Donetsk Region.
Mr Putin and Ms Merkel noted that it is important for the international community to take effective measures, including through the OSCE in the first place, aimed at easing tensions in Ukraine. In this connection, Swiss Federal President and OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Didier Burkhalter will arrive in Moscow on May 7.
Vladimir Putin stressed the importance of establishing a direct dialogue between the current authorities in Kiev and representatives of southeast Ukraine.
The two leaders also exchanged their opinions on ensuring the supply and transit of Russian gas in accordance with the outcomes of multilateral gas consultations held recently in Warsaw with participation of Russia, EU and Ukraine.