EU Ambassador to Ukraine Hugh Mingarelli understands that the decision of the Council on temporary complete cessation of transport links with the occupied territories due to the “nationalization” of Ukrainian enterprises by the militants, but wants to obtain explanations from the Ukrainian authorities.
He noted that the European Union would like to have an explanation from the Ukrainian authorities regarding yesterday’s decision of the NSDC.
“So far the Ukrainian government in relation to the territory of Donbass used an inclusive approach, while the fight against smuggling. The inclusive approach provided the solution of humanitarian problems of the population of Donbass and has a positive impact on the economic situation there. This approach was fully supported by us, so yesterday’s decision of the Council surprised us. However, to reach a final position, we should obtain explanations from the Ukrainian authorities on many issues,” said Mingarelli.
At the same time, he understands what made the Ukrainian elite to take such drastic measures.
“We realize that in the last days, events occurred that resulted in the current situation is different than it was a few weeks ago. In particular, we are talking about the capture of the so-called separatists of the Ukrainian enterprises. We understand that this has changed the situation that requires the reaction of the Ukrainian government”, – the diplomat added.
Yesterday at the meeting of the Council , the President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko decided to temporarily completely stop transport – automobile and railway – from the occupied territories of Donbass.
After that , the Council supported the proposal of the President in connection with the seizure of the Ukrainian enterprises and the deterioration of the situation in the zone of the military operation in the Donbass. As stated by Oleksandr Turchynov, “in pursuance of the NSDC decision until 13:00 today will be closed all roads and railway lines leading to the separation line”.
