In call with Obama, Putin says ‘extremists’ in Kyiv ‘intimidating people with impunity’

Editor's Note: Russian President Vladimir Putin called U.S. President Barack Obama on March 28 to discuss a diplomatic resolution to the crisis in Ukraine, according to the Kremlin. The following is the readout of the presidents' call posted to the Kremlin website.

The two leaders continued exchanging views on the crisis in Ukraine.

Vladimir Putin drew Barack Obama’s attention to continued rampage of extremists who are committing acts of intimidation towards peaceful residents, government authorities and law enforcement agencies in various regions and in Kiev with impunity.

In light of this, the President of Russia suggested examining possible steps the global community can take to help stabilise the situation. The two presidents agreed that specific parameters for this joint work will be discussed by the Russian and US foreign ministers in the near future.

Vladimir Putin also pointed out that Transnistria is essentially experiencing a blockade, which significantly complicate the living conditions for the region’s residents, impeding their movement and normal trade and economic activities. He stressed that Russia stands for the fair and comprehensive settlement of the Transnistria conflict and hopes for effective work in the existing 5+2 negotiation format.