27 February: The cost of the ambitious project to turn Sochi into an Olympic resort city is now estimated to reach 1.4 trillion rubles, most of which is due to come from the Russian budget. (Vedomosti)

Borrell underlined that the European Union will make every effort to support the peace process and to remain a committed partner to the Afghan people. "Of course, we will have to take into account the evolving situation, but disengagement is not an option.  We are clear on that: there is no alternative to a negotiated political settlement, through inclusive peace talks.