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Obama discusses with advisors possible steps against Russia

They considered various actions against Russia to convince it to immediately take steps to de-escalate the situation in Ukraine

© EPA/JIM LO SCALZO

WASHINGTON, March 04, /ITAR-TASS/. U.S. President Barack Obama on Monday discussed with his closest advisors possible actions against Russia in connection with the recent developments in Crimea, an administration source told reporters.

They discussed steps to further isolate Russia in response to its actions in Crimea, he said.

Secretary of State John Kerry, Secretary of Defence Chuck Hagel, National Security Advisor Susan Rice, Treasure Secretary Jacob Lew and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Martin Dempsey participated in the meeting in the White House, which lasted more than two hours.

They considered various actions against Russia to convince it to immediately take steps to de-escalate the situation. Otherwise, the White House warns, it will have political and economic consequences for Moscow.

President Obama would continue receiving additional information about the situation in Ukraine and stay in contact with his foreign partners, the U.S. official added.

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