President Barack Obama spoke with German Chancellor Angela Merkel Friday about the possibility of new sanctions against Russia after the conflict in Ukraine that may have played a role in the shooting down of a commercial jet. “While agreeing to continue efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the current crisis, they reaffirmed their determination to remain in close contact as they consider what additional actions may be required,” the White House said of the phone call between the two leaders. The statement referred to sanctions Obama has already imposed on individuals and companies in Russia.
