WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House is confirming that CIA Director John Brennan was in the Ukrainian capital over the weekend.

White House press secretary Jay Carney confirmed Russian media reports of the trip to Kiev. Carney says Brennan's visit was part of a trip to Europe.

Ousted Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych is accusing the CIA of being behind the new government's decision to turn to force. But the CIA denies that Brennan encouraged Ukrainian authorities to conduct tactical operations.

Carney said Monday the U.S. is conferring with allies on sanctions after more provocations by Russia in Ukraine. Carney says Obama plans to talk to Russian President Vladimir Putin are by phone soon, as early as Monday.