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Dutch government scraps trade mission to Russia

THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) — The Dutch government has scrapped a trade mission to Russia that was intended to forge closer ties between the two countries' energy sectors, blaming "developments in eastern Ukraine."

Foreign Minister Frans Timmermans said in a statement Wednesday "a successful mission is not possible in the current climate." The mission that was to have been led next month by Economic Affairs Minister Henk Kamp is being postponed until further notice.

The announcement comes amid tensions in eastern Ukraine, between the country's government and pro-Russian separatists.