WIREDGOV

The Prime Minister spoke to the Canadian Prime Minister, Stephen Harper, earlier this afternoon to discuss the situation in Ukraine. They agreed on the importance of the EU, Russia and Transatlantic partners working together in support of the Ukrainian people and their aspiration for a peaceful and prosperous future underpinned by stable and inclusive political institutions. The two leaders also discussed Ukraine’s financial situation and the need for international financial support that would be best provided from the International Monetary Fund.

The call with Prime Minister Harper follows the Prime Minister’s calls with President Putin, Chancellor Merkel and Prime Minister Tusk last week, and his meeting with Prime Minister Rutte at Chequers on Friday. Ukraine will also feature on the agenda of the Prime Minister’s bilateral with Chancellor Merkel later in the week.

Earlier this afternoon, ministers discussed the situation in Ukraine at the regular meeting of the National Security Council (NSC). This was an opportunity for senior members of the government to take stock of the latest situation on the ground in Ukraine and the government’s response. The NSC agreed that the priority should be to continue to work with our international partners to support a peaceful transition to a representative unity government, and to secure the international financial support that a new Ukrainian government is likely to need in order to be able to respond to the serious financial situation in which Ukraine finds itself.