Russia to use any form of diplomacy to end Ukraine conflict: LavrovAugust 25, 2014 - 13:46 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Russia is willing to use any form of diplomacy to end the conflict in Ukraine, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday, Aug 25, on the eve of a meeting between the Russian and Ukrainian Presidents. "We are ready...for any format as long as there is a result," Lavrov told a news conference, according to Reuters. He said the aim was "to help Ukrainians agree among themselves." He said Russia hoped Tuesday's meeting in Minsk would touch on the humanitarian situation in Ukraine, where Ukrainian government forces are fighting pro-Russian armed men, and all sides would agree on the need for further aid to civilians there. Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. Azerbaijan razes historic Armenian church to ground Azerbaijan has demolished the historic Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist (known as Kanach Zham). Russia to begin assessing migrant workers' speaking skills Rosobrnadzor is planning to change the Russian language exam for migrant workers and include an assessment of speaking skills |