EU calls for political solution to Ukraine conflict

The European Union (EU) called on Russia and Ukraine to take efforts to come up with a political solution to the conflict in eastern Ukraine.

"Those responsible for the recent escalation must now show that they are serious about their commitment to a political settlement and do their utmost to halt the spiral of violence by withdrawing heavy weapons without delay and by respecting the line of contact as foreseen in the Minsk memorandum," Xinhua reported citing a statement issued by the EU Friday.

The EU said the escalation of fighting has caused far too many civilian as well as military casualties and as the basis for a sustainable political solution, the first step should be the cessation of hostilities.

It condemned public parading of prisoners in Donetsk, saying the move was not in line with international humanitarian law.

The statement also noted the EU expects the Trilateral Contact Group, comprising Russia, Ukraine and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, to convene as soon as possible.