Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. counterpart Barack Obama discussed in detail "different aspects of an extraordinary situation in Ukraine" in a telephone conversation, the Kremlin press service reported on Sunday, ITAR-TASS reported.
The Russian president noted that Russia retained the right to protect country's interests and Russian speakers living in Ukraine if violence spread on eastern Ukrainian regions and the Crimea. Putin stated about real threats to life and health of Russian citizens and numerous compatriots living in the country.
In reply to Obama's concern voiced over plans on possible use of Russian armed forces in Ukraine Putin noted provocative and criminal actions by ultra-nationalistic elements that are actually encouraged by current authorities in Kiev.
The United States initiated the telephone conversation.