Barroso schrijft brief aan Poetin

"As you (Poetin, red.) point out, the European Union and the Russian Federation are Ukraine 's main trading partners. (...) However, we do not share your assessment of trade relations between Ukraine and the European Union that, to a large extent, the crisis in Ukraine 's economy has been precipitated by the unbalanced trade with the European Union Member States. In this regard an IMF-led programme of assistance will be vital in stabilising Ukraine's economy. (...) In our view, issues relating to Ukraine 's gas debts and import prices should be considered alongside their external financing needs with the IMF and all other relevant international partners. Cooperation between the European Union and the Russian Federation in the energy field is based on common interests."

"I am convinced that, by discussing constructively common solutions and actions, we can find the solution to the current crisis."