(Photo: Shatterstock)
Tensions continue: Ukrainian President Vladimir Zlansky today (Tuesday) addressed tensions with Russia, in the shadow of President Vladimir Putin’s statement on the recognition of separatist provinces’ independence and growing fears of a Russian invasion. In his remarks, he noted that his government is considering severing diplomatic relations with Russia amid the crisis.
Foreign Minister Yair Lapid on tensions in Ukraine (Photo: Srugim)
“We are considering severing diplomatic relations with Russia following its recognition of the provinces’ independence. The Foreign Ministry is currently holding discussions on the issue,” Zlansky said during a joint press conference with the Estonian prime minister. “Today is a critical day in this crisis. Russia’s current move provides a legal basis for increasing aggression against Ukraine.”
He added that “we must be prepared for any manifestation of violence or aggression on the part of Russia. If Russia does invade Ukraine, it will also endanger other countries in the region – including our neighbors Moldova, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. I do not wish such a thing on anyone. We do not want war. “Ukraine just wants peace.” Despite this, Zelsky said he “believes there will be no significant war and escalation.”
As you may recall, last night Zalansky responded for the first time to Putin’s statement on the recognition of the independence of the separatist districts and made it clear that he was not afraid of fighting threats. In a speech to the nation he made it clear that the Russian statement does not change the reality on the ground, and that Ukraine is ready for any scenario – including a Russian invasion.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0rTXJ7p08U
“We are ready for anything that will happen in the long run, and are not afraid of anything and anyone,” Zlansky said. “We want peace and support diplomacy, but the Russian decision destroys all diplomatic efforts. We expect our allies to take clear and effective action against Russia for violating existing agreements.”
He further ruled out the possibility that Ukraine would agree to territorial concessions, accusing Russia of “destroying peace talks.” “Ukraine’s international borders will remain as they are today, regardless of Russia’s declarations,” he clarified. “We are on our land, we owe nothing to anyone, and we give nothing to anyone.”
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