Russian President Putin told heads of major news agencies in St. Petersburg on April 4 that Russia is prepared to make compromises on Ukraine but must first convince Kyiv this is the case. He said Russia does not oppose Ukraine joining the EU but opposes the EU becoming a military alliance. Putin said the EU could play a constructive role by persuading Kyiv to accept a compromise rather than supplying weapons. He added Russia wants to sign any agreement with Ukraine's "legitimate representatives

Russian President Putin told heads of major news agencies in St. Petersburg on April 4 that Russia is prepared to make compromises on Ukraine but must first convince Kyiv this is the case. He said Russia does not oppose Ukraine joining the EU but opposes the EU becoming a military alliance. Putin said the EU could play a constructive role by persuading Kyiv to accept a compromise rather than supplying weapons. He added Russia wants to sign any agreement with Ukraine's "legitimate representatives" and said holding presidential elections in Ukraine is very important.