Merkel calls Putin to discuss Ukraine crisisDecember 17, 2014 - 13:32 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - German Chancellor Angela Merkel has called Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss possible steps to secure a comprehensive cease-fire in eastern Ukraine, the Associated Press reports. The call late Tuesday, Dec 16, came as Russia grappled with a sudden drop in its currency, the ruble. Moscow has accused the West of trying to inflict economic pain on Russia for political ends. Merkel's office said Wednesday that the two leaders were joined by French President Francois Hollande and Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko in the discussion. It said they agreed on the need for increased humanitarian aid, including by Ukraine, to the country’s east. Related links: Top stories Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev arrived in Moscow on April 22 to hold talks with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". Partner news | Ucom Celebrates Telecommunication Day May 17 commemorates the founding of the International Telecommunication Union on May 17, 1865. Armenian, Azerbaijani heads of parliament meet in Switzerland President of the Armenian parliament Alen Simonyan met with the Speaker of the Azerbaijani Milli Majlis Sahiba Gafarova. Border residents overnight on highway to protest Armenia’s Residents of Kirants continue to express outrage over the government’s decision to cede land to Azerbaijan. Get Started: An educational platform for young startuppers The Get Started program which operates in two phases is an important platform for young startuppers. |