US Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew has said sanctions against Russia could be extended because of the escalation of violence in east Ukraine.

He was speaking on a visit to Kiev, after European Union leaders said they would consider “further restrictive measures” on Russia’s government.

Pro-Russian separatists have pushed back Ukrainian forces in several areas in the past week.

But the number of casualties has steadily mounted.

Shelling by Ukrainian forces killed 16 civilians in the rebel-held region of Luhansk and four in Donetsk, according to officials quoted by Russian state news agency Tass on Wednesday. More than 100 others were reportedly wounded.
Ukrainian officials said the separatists had targeted 55 towns and villages in the past 24 hours.

There were no details of civilian casualties but they said three soldiers had been killed.

A main focus of rebel attacks is the town of Debaltseve, a road and rail hub near Donetsk, which separatist leader Eduard Basurin has described as a “wedge” between rebel-held areas.

Mr Lew said Washington’s first choice was a diplomatic resolution to lessen sanctions, but “we are prepared to do more if necessary”.

His remarks came hours after President Barack Obama spoke on the phone to German Chancellor Angela Merkel and issued a statement saying the two leaders were concerned about “Russia’s materiel support for the separatists”.

They “agreed on the need to hold Russia accountable for its actions”. Enjoy!!!

Putin has Napolian syndrome and is out of hand. Yes, economic sanctions should be tightened on Russia right away. Hit them in their wallet as Europe or the U.S. cannot do anything with Military. Tighten the screws on their economy, boycott Lukoil, their Goods like Vodka, etc and once their people start feeling the pain, maybe the government will have to get inline. They can keep on the road they are on and not have growth if Europe and North America, Australia boycotts them. The World cup should be moved from Russia also in 2018. This is the only thing Russia understands.  Be AWARE and be PREPARED, FEAR is not an option. Be safe everyone…

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