US Vice President Joe Biden held bilateral talks in Kyiv with Ukraine President Petro Poroshenko to the backdrop of two national anniversaries.<br /><br /> It was expected the US Vice President would announce a package of fresh aid for Kyiv. Instead the focus of both men turned to the conflict with Moscow.<br /><br /> “Ukraine marks the first anniversary of our Revolution of Dignity and the tenth anniversary of the beginning of the Orange revolution. I think these two events have played a significant role in forming a new country. Now when Ukraine is at war for its independence, our country as never before needs wisdom and consolidation,” said Ukraine President Petro Poroshenko.<br /><br /> The US Vice President laid down a challenge to the Ukraine leaders calling for a new government “within days” and stressed the need to “route out the cancer of corruption”. But his strongest words were aimed at the Kremlin.<br /><br /> “Russian behaviour represents a flagrant violation of the bedrock principles of an international system, which is why the international community has responded with one voice. Amplifying your voice, Mr President; the voice of all Ukrainians. Helping Ukrainians defend their sovereignty and security of their nation,” said Vice President Joe Biden.<br /><br /> The vice president added Russia should respect the Minsk peace agreement, restore Ukrainian control over its own borders and remove “illegal military formations, military equipment and militants”.
