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There was a thorough discussion of various aspects of settling the intra-Ukrainian crisis and the need for boosting the efficiency of negotiating efforts as part of the Minsk Contact Group. The parties praised additional ceasefire measures that have been in effect from July 27 and that were approved at the Group’s meeting on July 22. The presidents underscored the importance of unconditional compliance by all parties of the conflict with these agreements.

The Russian side underscored the need to prioritise the implementation of the decisions made by the Normandy format leaders, including those that followed the December 2019 summit in Paris.

Vladimir Putin pointed out that the Verkhovna Rada’s July 15 resolution on 2020 local elections contradicts the Minsk agreements and threatens settlement prospects. He also expressed grave concern in view of recent remarks by Ukraine’s top officials on the unacceptability of some of the provisions in the Package of Measures and the need to reconsider them. The President of Russia specially noted that the position Vladimir Zelensky reiterated during their telephone conversation, namely that there can be no alternatives to the Minsk agreements, must find its affirmation in practical actions taken by authorities in Kiev.

The Presidents also exchanged opinions on the situation caused by the coronavirus pandemic.