Ukraine refused to participate in TCG negotiations in Minsk - Kravchuk
Photo: ukrinform.ua
The Head of the Ukrainian delegation to the Trilateral Contact Group, Leonid Kravchuk, said that Ukraine would no longer hold talks on Donbas in Minsk, as Belarus was under the influence of the Russian Federation.
He stated this on the air of the Ukraine 24 TV channel.
"I don't think it's just about trust. I'm convinced that a disorganized country, that is fighting a difficult struggle with the opposition, that uses illicit, unforeseen methods, repression, a country that is under Russia's influence, a country, where Russian military maneuvers take place, etc., cannot be a platform for resolving such an issue as the 'fight for peace,'" Kravchuk said.
He noted that the place for negotiations could only be a neutral country, but so far there were no practical proposals.
"It'll be up to the Ukrainian authorities to decide. Many countries in Europe don't depend on anyone and can create the conditions for meetings. It's not a problem. There's only a problem of desire and agreement, and it'll be a major issue for Ms. Heidi Grau (OSCE Special Representative for Donbas Talks – ed.), as she's the moderator and should support such proposals and raise issues," the Head of the Ukrainian delegation added.
Besides, Kravchuk urgently addressed the OSCE Special Representative.
"3 hours ago, I wrote to Ms. Heidi Grau with a proposal, given that two Ukrainian soldiers were killed again, and the situation in Donbas is very tense, to hold an urgent meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group. I think it hasn't been considered, but if it's been considered, there's no answer yet. I hope for a response," he said.
To recap, four Ukrainian defenders were killed for the last two days in Donbas.
On March 30, the Verkhovna Rada approved a statement demanding that the Russian Federation cease hostilities immediately and adhere to a ceasefire, and call on the world community to continue and increase political and economic pressure on Russia to end its aggression against Ukraine.
During a TCG meeting, Leonid Kravchuk proposed to resume a comprehensive ceasefire from April 1, but Russia refused.
Khomchak also stated that Ukraine was ready to advance on Donbas. However, before that, it's necessary to assess the risks and calculate the strengths and capabilities of the Ukrainian state and army.
