Blinken: US Very Concerned About Ukraine Situation; Erdogan Toes The Line With Russia

LOCAL NEWS

• US Sec of State Blinken: US in concerned about Russia-Ukraine situation and is in very close contact with European allies and partners.
  • Also pointed to efforts under Obama to impose real costs and sanctions on Russia for its actions vs Ukraine, claiming they "deterred Russia from doing even more"
• Kremlin says it is not moving towards war with Ukraine, insisting Moscow is not involved with its internal conflict but highlighted it will not remain indifferent (Sunday). Says Moscow is making every effort possible to resolve the conflict.
  • Ukraine Spox rejected the possibility of an offensive in the Donbass, but questioned Russia's intent saying, "Ukraine cannot attack its own territory and fight its own people, but Russia is another matter"
• Erdogan walks a fine line between Russia and Ukraine during Zelenski's visit.
  • Erdogan called for a peaceful solution between Ukraine & Russia, calling for a return to the Minsk agreement (in line with Russia's position) – which was somewhat of a first for Turkey.
  • Also remained committed to the non-recognition of Crimea's annexation.
  • Defense ministers, however, gave differing stories on whether Turkey will provide drones to Ukraine (key touchpoint for Russia-Turkey relations), with Ukraine saying arms contracts were affirmed and Akar saying Turkey desired to see only a peaceful solution