Putin says Kiev's use of army against separatists a 'grave crime'

MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Ukraine's decision to send armed forces into the east of the country instead of trying to establish a dialogue with the Russian-speaking population there was a "grave crime."

In a televised call-in with the nation, Putin also dismissed allegations that Russian forces were present in east Ukraine and emphasised the importance of international talks on the crisis taking place in Geneva.