Volker: Russian proposal on peacekeepers in Donbas will further divide Ukraine
The deployment of UN peacekeepers in the Donbas under the Russian scenario is unacceptable, as this option will further divide the country. However, Russia is already ready for negotiations, as expressed by the US Special Representative for Ukraine, Kurt Volker, in an interview with Voice of America.
"I believe that the fundamental goals of US policy are clear, as are Ukraine's goals, and they are to restore the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, as well as ensure the security of all citizens of Ukraine. I think that this is clearly understood. When we talk about the presence of peacekeepers itself, what Russia proposed to the UN is a very narrow concept and concerns only their presence on the ceasefire line. It will in fact divide the country even more. This is unacceptable for anyone; the territory cannot be restored in this way. On the other hand, if we are able to establish peacekeeping forces and expand this concept to the entire disputed territory, provide for the deterrence of heavy weapons, and establish Ukrainian control over the Ukrainian-Russian border, this will be a promising initiative. Both governments are now considering the possibility of expanding the concept to turn it into one that will be truly meaningful and useful," he said.
According to Volker, Russia would not offer anything if it were not ready for negotiations.
"They did nothing for three years regarding this issue. They did not offer to introduce a peacekeeping mission before. Only a couple of weeks ago they were saying that they absolutely do not want to see the UN there. Therefore, the fact that they initiated this conversation, in my opinion, means that they are ready to discuss this. In the end, everything comes down to Russia’s decision as to whether they want to resolve the crisis in Ukraine, withdraw their forces, and restore the territorial integrity of Ukraine, or they do not. If they want to stubbornly stand on their position and create another Abkhazia, they can do it, but for Russia it will be a very costly proposition," the diplomat added.
On September 5th, Russian President Putin expressed support for the idea of deploying a peacekeeping mission to eastern Ukraine. At the same time, he said that it should be a UN mission to assist with the protection of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission.
Earlier Volker said that the introduction of the UN peacekeeping forces to the Donbas will allow for the conditions needed to hold local elections in the separatist-held territories.