Russian, Azerbaijani presidents discuss Ukraine issue

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) – The Russian and Azerbaijani presidents Tuesday discussed the Ukrainian crisis and the recent events in Kazakhstan, a Kremlin statement said.

In a phone call, Vladimir Putin and Ilham Aliyev discussed the problems of the Ukrainian settlement at the initiative of Aliyev who has recently visited the Ukrainian capital Kyiv, the statement said.

"Vladimir Putin spoke about his contacts with the US and its allies on the provision of guarantees that ensure Russia's security," the statement added.

Exchanging views on the recent events in Kazakhstan, Putin and Aliyev expressed satisfaction that the situation was quickly stabilized thanks to the presence of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) peacekeeping forces.

"The intention to further strengthen the Russian-Azerbaijani strategic partnership was confirmed," the statement said.