Obama gives cautious backing for Ukraine-Russia talks

President Barack Obama refused to rule out sending arms to Ukraine Monday, but indicated he was willing to see if German-led efforts to broker a ceasefire succeed before making his choice. Hosting German Chancellor Angela Merkel at the White House for crisis talks, Obama voiced skepticism about whether a deal can be reached with Russia to end 10 months of bloodshed. Steep Western sanctions have helped cripple Russia's economy, but have failed to dissuade Vladimir Putin's government fro