White House - true test of Minsk deal on Ukraine to come

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The White House said on Thursday the Minsk deal to end fighting in eastern Ukraine was a "potentially significant step" but said heavy weapons must be withdrawn from the conflict zone and that Russia must pull out its own soldiers and equipment.

"The true test of today's accord will be in its full and unambiguous implementation, including the durable end of hostilities and the restoration of Ukrainian control over its border with Russia," the White House said in a statement that made no reference to the possibility of fresh U.S. sanctions.