The two leaders continued their discussion of various aspects of the crisis in Ukraine.
Vladimir Putin stressed the significance of maintaining the ceasefire regime and assisting the economic recovery of the affected areas in the southeast of Ukraine. It was stressed that establishing direct political dialogue between Kiev and representatives of Donbass was a vital necessity and had no alternatives.
The two leaders confirmed their intention to further assist in achieving a peaceful settlement in Ukraine, relying in particular on the implementation of the Minsk agreements. With this in mind, they agreed to enhance joint efforts in the Normandy format, including the current consultations between the foreign policy departments.