Ukrainian, German leaders discuss Kiev crisis

Kiev, May 5 (IANS) Ukrainian acting President Alexandr Turchynov discussed the ongoing crisis in his country with German Chancellor Angela Merkel during a telephonic conversation Monday, the presidential press service said in a statement.

During the phone talk, the two leaders raised the issue of Ukraine's "anti-terror" operation in the eastern regions aimed at dislodging pro-Russian activists who have seized a number of government buildings there, Xinhua reported.

Turchynov reaffirmed his country's commitment to having a dialogue with pro-Moscow protestors, but said the government in Kiev would not cooperate with "rebels, who use weapons against Ukrainian citizens".

Turchynov said that Ukrainian authorities have launched their military operation solely against "terrorists and armed saboteurs who take hostages, kill and terrorise civilians".

"We are implementing the anti-terror operation at the slow pace striving to ensure the safety of our citizens and prevent casualties among civilians," Turchynov said.

Speaking on the preparations for the upcoming presidential elections, Turchynov said that free and fair voting May 25 is a top priority for Ukrainian authorities.

For her part, Merkel said that Germany fully supported Ukraine and stood ready to provide all-round assistance to resolve the crisis in the east European country.