Russian president receives cold shoulder during Brussels visit

Russian President Vladimir Putin met with European leaders yesterday for an “EU-Russia Summit” that only lasted a few hours. The unusually short visit was largely focused on the escalating events in Ukraine, where pro-EU protesters have violently clashed with police forces. The EU has been very vocal in its criticism for the actions of the Ukrainian government during the crisis, which has resulted in the deaths of protesters.

At issue during Tuesday’s meeting was the Kremlin’s strong support for Ukraine’s President Viktor F. Yanukovych as the situation continues to deteriorate. Mr. Putin has fed billions of euros into Kiev in support of the Government.

Despite the differences between Russia and the EU, both sides said they will continue to work closely together to forge stronger relations.