KABUL (Pajhwok): Tensions between Moscow and the Western have surged after Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recognition of two rebel regions of Ukraine as independent areas.
In a televised address on Monday, Putin accused authorities in Kyiv of persecuting Russian speakers and preparing a blitzkrieg against the breakaway regions of Donetsk and Lugansk in Ukraine’s east.
“As for those who seized and hold power in Kyiv, we demand an immediate end to their military operations,” Putin was quoted as saying by Russian media outlets.
“Otherwise, all responsibility for the possible continuation of bloodshed will be fully on the conscience of the regime in power in Ukraine,” Putin warned.
He insisted it was necessary to take a long overdue decision on immediately recognising the independence of the two Ukrainian regions.
Immediately after his speech, the state television showed Putin signing mutual aid agreements with rebel leaders in the Kremlin.
In an expected move, US President Joe Biden signed a decree sanctioning Russia for recognising the sovereignty of Lugansk and Donetsk.
Among other things, the decree bans Americans from financing and investing in the DPR and LPR, as well as trade with the republics.
The executive order bans the import into the US — directly or indirectly — of goods, services or technology from the regions, TASS news agency reported.
The United Kingdom, a key US ally, is also expected to impose similar sanctions on Russia.
nh/mud
Views: 55
GET IN TOUCH
NEWSLETTER
SUGGEST A STORY
PAJHWOK MOBILE APP