Zeman: Putin move in Ukraine increases risk of conflict

Czech President Miloš Zeman says that Russia’s sending of troops into eastern Ukraine has increased the risk of a military conflict and reduced the chance of a diplomatic solution. The head of state made the statement through a spokesperson and offered no further comment.

Russia’s President Putin on Monday ordered troops into two breakaway regions of Ukraine run by Moscow-backed separatists.

President Zeman, who has fostered close relations with Moscow, previously said he did not believe Russia would risk armed conflict with a neighbour.