Biden proposes meeting with Putin "in a third country"

U.S. President Joe Biden departs after delivering remarks in the State Dining Room of the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 2, 2021. /Getty Images

U.S. President Joe Biden on Tuesday fronted a meeting with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin "in a third country in the coming months" for bilateral talks.

The two leaders held a telephone conversation on various issues, including Russia's military buildup along the border with Ukraine.

Tensions remain high in the Donbass border region which has been dogged by conflict since 2014 between Ukraine troops and separatists.

Russia has defended the troops deployment, saying it would be forced to protect the residents of Donbass if Ukraine launches full-scale hostilities against the region

White House said Biden informed Putin in their conversation that the United States was unwavering in its commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"The President voiced our concerns over the sudden Russian military build-up in occupied Crimea and on Ukraine's borders, and called on Russia to de-escalate tensions," said a statement by White House.

The Kremlin on its part noted that the two leaders were ready to 'continue dialogue' to ensure global security.

(With input from agencies)