China News Agency, Moscow, February 28 (Reporter Tian Bing) Russian President Vladimir Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron had a phone call on the 28th. The two sides exchanged views on the situation in Ukraine "seriously and deeply".
According to the Kremlin's website, Macron expressed his clear views on Russia's special military operations in the Donbas region, and expressed his hope that Russia can resolve the current conflict as soon as possible through dialogue and negotiation with Ukraine.
Putin stressed that mediation of the crisis is possible only if Russia's legitimate security interests are unconditionally considered, including recognizing Russia's sovereignty over Crimea, addressing issues such as Ukraine's "demilitarization" and ensuring its neutrality.
He also pointed out that Russia is open to negotiations with Ukrainian representatives and expects the expected results of the negotiations.
Putin said that the Russian armed forces do not threaten civilians and do not attack civilian facilities.
"The threat comes from Ukrainian nationalists who are using civilians as human shields to deliberately place attack weapon systems in residential areas and intensify shelling of Donbas cities."
The two heads of state agreed to maintain contact.
It was also reported that Macron had a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that day.
(over)