Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and US Secretary of State John Kerry (Photo: EPA)

Lavrov called for joint efforts to start a dialogue within Ukraine aimed at achieving nationwide accord. But he was concerned that the task will be impossible because of NATO’s decision to halt its cooperation with Russia.

Ukraine’s Prime Minister Arseniy Yetsenyuk has shown a willingness to negotiate with Russia. Kiev and Russia are facing grave problems in trade and energy cooperation.

In related news, Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych said he is worried that the presidential election set for May could extend the instability in Ukraine. He said constitutional reform is needed, followed by a parliamentary or presidential election.