Opinions & Interviews

Belarus president in favor of ending conflict in Ukraine fast

MINSK, 24 May (BelTA) – Belarus does not aspire to become a peacemaker but the conflict in Ukraine has to end as soon as possible. Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko made the statement in his speech during the international conference "Eastern Europe: In Search of Security for All", BelTA has learned.

Alexander Lukashenko said: “We’ve heard accusations lately that we allegedly aspire to become peacemakers. We don’t. We have our own fair share of problems to deal with. But I’ve already mentioned our interest in tranquility in Ukraine. If there is no peace in Ukraine, not only we but all of you will feel the heat. This conflict must be finished as soon as possible. You can count on us in this matter. We will do everything the conflicting sides will agree on.”

The head of state pointed out that guiltless civilians continue being killed in the Donbass area. Not a single provision of the Minsk agreements has been fully fulfilled.

“Ukraine is not just a neighbor of ours. Just like Russians it is a brotherly nation. Within a short period of time we’ve welcomed over 150,000 Ukrainian immigrants and their families. We help them find jobs, get healthcare. We help them with social and psychological adaptation. We provide humanitarian aid to people on both sides of the ‘dividing line’ in the Donbass area,” noted the Belarusian leader. “Whatever format the negotiations on Ukraine may use, the sides can always count on Belarus’ assistance.”

Alexander Lukashenko said he was convinced that rejecting emotions, the accumulated sorrows, prejudices, preconceptions, and mutual accusations in favor of resuming the dialogue is the only way to resolve any international disputes.

print version

make home page

add to bookmarks