President of Ukraine and President of the European Council discussed security situation in Donbas and Crimea

OREANDA-NEWS. President Petro Poroshenko had a telephone conversation with the President of the European Council Donald Tusk.

President of Ukraine told about cynical provocations of the Russian Federation in the occupied Crimea and escalation of its aggressive actions in eastern Ukraine. The counterparts discussed implementation of the Minsk agreements as well. Petro Poroshenko stressed the need for expanding the OSCE mission to cover the territory of Crimea as well as deploy an armed police mission under the aegis of the OSCE in Donbas.

The head of state noted the EU’s decisive reaction on the Russian provocations and escalation of tension is of critical importance. “After the recent events in Crimea, there should not be any illusions about Russia’s intentions. Maintenance and strengthening of sanctions is an effective instrument of influence,” emphasized Petro Poroshenko.

President of the European Council praised balanced actions of the President and Ukrainian authorities, which did not respond to Russian provocations in Crimea.

Donald Tusk reaffirmed the EU’s unwavered position regarding maintenance of sanctions and adamant support of Ukraine. “We strongly support the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine,” said President Tusk.