Obama, Merkel: Russia is accountable for support of separatists

U.S. President Barack Obama and German Chancellor Angela Merkel have discussed over phone the situation in eastern Ukraine.

They agreed on the need to hold Russia accountable for its support of separatists, the New York Times reported quoting the White House.

"The White House says Obama and Merkel agreed on the need to hold Russia accountable for its support for the separatists and failure to fulfill its commitments under a peace agreement," the newspaper said.

The U.S. and German leaders also discussed the importance of finalizing a "robust package of financial support" for Ukraine.