OREANDA-NEWS. Election in the self-proclaimed republics of Donbass can be held only after a transfer of these territories under the control of Kiev and the return of refugees. This was stated by the spokeswoman for the representative of the Ukrainian side in the Trilateral Contact Group Daria Olifer on January 16.

She is sure that otherwise, security at the polling stations cannot be ensured due to the possible resumption of hostilities. “This is the issue not only of the safety of the will of the voters, but also of the safe participation of all parties and candidates. […] Only the return of internally displaced persons and refugees to their native cities, towns and villages and their participation in the election can ensure a lasting peace,” Olifer wrote on her Facebook page.

Earlier in the day, Kiev submitted proposals on the withdrawal of forces in three additional areas. The names of these territories were not disclosed.