With pro-Russian separatists still occupying government buildings in parts of Ukraine, the country's foreign minister says there is still a chance for diplomacy ahead of peace talks in Geneva.br br (SOUNDBITE) (English) UKRAINIAN FOREIGN MINISTER, ANDRIY DESHCHYSTIA, SAYING:br br "I think that we still have a chance to de-escalate the situation using the diplomatic means. And we will try hard. We are trying hard - not only Ukraine - but also the United States. However, the time is now, not only to express the concerns, but to look for a more concrete and adequate response to Russia's plans and actions."br br He will be meeting with diplomats from the U.S., EU and Russia Thursday in an effort to find a solution to the crisis.br br U.S. officials don't foresee a big breakthrough at the talks.br br They say its reasonable to assume more sanctions would follow the meeting.