US, France say Russia could draw further costs over Ukraine

French President Francois Hollande (left) greets US President Barack Obama during an international D-Day commemoration ceremony on the beach of Ouistreham, Normandy, on June 6, 2014, marking the 70th anniversary of the World War II Allied landings in
French President Francois Hollande (left) greets US President Barack Obama during an international D-Day commemoration ceremony on the beach of Ouistreham, Normandy, on June 6, 2014, marking the 70th anniversary of the World War II Allied landings in Normandy. US President Barack Obama and French President Francois Hollande decided on Monday that Europe should impose further costs on Russia if Moscow does not immediately take steps to de-escalate tensions in eastern Ukraine, the White House said. -- PHOTO: AFP

WASHINGTON (REUTERS) - US President Barack Obama and French President Francois Hollande decided on Monday that Europe should impose further costs on Russia if Moscow does not immediately take steps to de-escalate tensions in eastern Ukraine, the White House said.

The two leaders spoke by phone. They agreed that Russia should stop "destabilising activities" such as allowing and facilitating the transit of weapons and fighters across the border and should cease its own military build-up near the Ukrainian border and its ongoing support for separatists, the White House said.

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