The Secretary spoke with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov by phone earlier this morning. The Secretary expressed grave concern about the sharp increase in separatist attacks in Eastern Ukraine, and urged an immediate ceasefire and full implementation of Minsk obligations. On Syria, the Secretary and Foreign Minister Lavrov agreed to continue exploring options for a political solution to the conflict.
Secretary Kerry also raised his concerns about the travel to Moscow by IRGC Commander Qasem Soleimani, as well as pending legislation in Russia that would limit the activities of non-governmental organizations.
