Kerry says Russia has made constructive¹ moves in recent days toward reducing tension in Ukraine.

 

"There are some indications that whether it is the line of control of negotiations², or the calm that is fact in place in a number of places, the withdrawal³ of certain people, there are signs of constructive choices. And that can only be helpful, hopefully."

 

He added that the purpose of the Russian sanctions was to make clear to Russian President Vladimir Putin that there are costs associated with Moscow's support for separatists in eastern Ukraine.

 

His comments come as President Barack Obama is expected to sign legislation by the end of the week authorizing⁴ new sanctions on Russia over its activities in Ukraine.

 

The bill seeks to keep the pressure on Russia by authorizing sanctions on Russian weapons companies and investors⁵ in its high-tech⁶ oil projects, and to boost the Ukraine government with military aid.

 

However, U.S. State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki claimed there was no discrepancy⁷ between Kerry's comments and the White House announcement over possible new sanctions.

 

She added that Moscow could make specific steps to implement⁸ a September ceasefire deal reached in Minsk.

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