1st LD: G7 expresses concerns over Ukraine, pressing for implementation of ceasefire

The Group of Seven (G7) expressed Monday concerns over the recent increase in fighting in Ukraine, urging all sides to fully respect and implement the ceasefire and withdraw heavy weapons.

The heads of state and government of Canada, France, German, Italy, Japan, Britain and the United States made the remarks in a joint declaration after two days of talks in southern Germany.

"We are concerned by the recent increase in fighting along the line of contact; we renew our call to all sides to fully respect and implement the ceasefire and withdraw heavy weapons," said the declaration.

Leaders of the seven industrialized countries also reiterated their full support for the efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the conflict in eastern Ukraine, particularly in the framework of the Normandy format and the Trilateral Contact Group. Endit