Deputy head of President’s Office, Swedish ambassador discuss escalation in eastern Ukraine

Deputy Head of the Ukrainian President’s Office Roman Mashovets and Ambassador of Sweden to Ukraine Tobias Thyberg have discussed the deteriorating situation in eastern Ukraine and near its border and possible ways to deter Russian aggression.

During the meeting, Mashovets drew attention to Russia's military build-up along Ukraine's borders, as well as Russia's escalation of the situation in eastern Ukraine and its violation of the ceasefire, Ukrinform reports with reference to the president’s press service.

He stressed the importance of coordinated actions at the international level to prevent the situation from escalating and bring Russia to justice for its military actions.

"If Russia refuses to offer reasonable solutions, we and the entire international community will clearly see who is to blame for the destabilization of the situation," said Mashovets.

In turn, the Swedish Ambassador drew attention to the efforts of Sweden, in particular in the context of the country’s OSCE presidency, aimed to ensure the transparency of Russia's military action in accordance with its commitments under the 2011 Vienna Document. He praised the Ukrainian side's efforts to resolve the conflict peacefully and return to the ceasefire.

"Ukraine adheres to the rules of international law and international humanitarian law," he said.

The Ambassador assured that Sweden will continue to pay great attention to the situation in eastern Ukraine and near its eastern borders and will support the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the state.

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