Russian FM accuses Ukraine of ignoring ceasefire agreementMarch 23, 2016 - 14:42 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has accused Ukrainian's government of dragging its feet on implementing last year's ceasefire agreement, the Associated Press reports. Although last year's ceasefire has largely held, none of the political elements of the deal like calling a local election there has been implemented. Lavrov, who was hosting German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Moscow on Wednesday, March 23, told reporters that Kiev's inaction is the main stumbling block to a peace settlement in the east. Lavrov said Germany floated an idea of holding an election in the rebel-occupied territories this summer but Kiev said no. Kiev insists it can't hold the vote there because of security concerns. Steinmeier on Wednesday urged both sides to comply with the partial withdrawal and warned of a possible escalation. 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 | Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. Armenia, Russia discuss life extension of Metsamor nuclear plant Issues regarding the extension of life of the 2nd power unit of the Armenian Nuclear Power Plant were discussed in Yerevan. Armenians stage more campaigns against territorial concessions to Azerbaijan Protesters blocked more roads across Armenia on Friday, April 26 in continuing attempts to scuttle territorial concessions to Azerbaijan. |