Poroshenko: Russia’s actions aimed at destroying the Ukrainian state
Russia's actions in Ukraine are aimed at destroying the Ukrainian state and returning it back into its sphere of influence, as stated by President Petro Poroshenko, Interfax-Ukraine reports.
"Everything that Russia is doing in Ukraine today has one single goal: to return us into its so-called sphere of influence and to destroy the Ukrainian state," Poroshenko said during a meeting with the heads of diplomatic missions of foreign countries and internationally accredited organizations in Ukraine on Tuesday evening in Kyiv.
According to him, the most effective safeguard against the revival of Russia's imperial ambitions is a democratic, successful, and independent Ukraine.
Poroshenko also added that it is the Ukrainian army that defends peace, stability, and democracy in Europe.
In addition, the President of Ukraine believes there is a need for a firm response to those who violate the norms of international law.
"Attempts to pacify the aggressor always, without exception, lead to an increase of his appetites and, as a result, new aggression. Therefore, the need for a tough, uncompromising rebuff to those who grossly violate the norms of international law is evident today," Poroshenko summed up.
In December, the US State Department stated that Russia continues to support the active conflict and humanitarian crisis in the Donbas.