U.S.to further support Ukraine, urges Russian actions

U.S. Vice President Joe Biden said Saturday that Washington will further support Ukraine and called for Russian actions to find a peaceful solution to the Ukraine crisis.

He made the remarks in an address to the ongoing 51st Munich Security Conference, which has entered its main day with intensive discussions about Ukraine.

"Europe is not just the home of our closest allies. It is the cornerstone of U.S. engagement with the rest of the world," Biden told the conference.

He said Kiev has a right to defend itself in the Ukraine crisis, while maintaining that his country wants a peaceful solution to the conflict in eastern Ukrainian regions.

The vice president stressed the importance of attempts and efforts aiming to find ways out of the crisis, including the latest German-Franco peace initiative, and urged Russia to do its part and take concrete actions to help to end the conflict.

Speaking of the relations between the West and Russia, Biden said the West is willing to establish "at least constructive relationship" with Russia.

However, he stated: "Russia has chosen a different path."

Biden noted that "America and Europe are being tested" and there is need to "reassert core values of no spheres of influence and the right to choose own alliances."

In addition, he said Washington will continue to provide Ukraine with security assistance. "We need to remain resolute in our support for Ukraine. It matters not just in Europe, but around the world," he added. Enditem