Merkel says ‘cautiously optimistic’ about Russia-Ukraine gas talks October 9, 2014 - 18:01 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - German Chancellor Angela Merkel says she is "cautiously optimistic" that talks to resolve differences between Russia and Ukraine about the supply of natural gas will succeed, the Associated Press reports. Merkel says the dispute with Russia over its support for militias in eastern Ukraine will likely last for some time. But she told reporters in Berlin on Thursday, Oct 9, that she hoped European Union-brokered negotiations to secure Ukrainian and European gas supplies through the harsh winter months would bear fruit. EU Energy Commissioner Guenther Oettinger has been brokering talks that hinge on Russia's demand for Ukraine to repay its vast gas debts. Talking about the broader situation in Ukraine, Merkel said a UN report released Wednesday showing more than 300 deaths since the start of the cease-fire showed "how fragile the situation is." Related links:   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 |  Latest 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 |
