Kyiv's refusal to pay for DPR, LPR gas constitutes recognition of republics' independence - Pushilin
DONETSK. April 23 (Interfax) - The self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) said Kyiv's refusal to pay for gas supplied from the territories of the DRR and the LPR indicates recognition of their independence.
"Ukraine is trying to tell us that Donbas is its territory, but at the same time it is refusing to pay for the gas supplied to the republics. The refusal to pay is recognition that it's not its territory. DPR envoy Denis Pushilin told reporters.
Pushilin said the republic can independently pay for the supply of gas from Russia. "The DPR is capable of independently paying for gas supplied from Russia. The economic situation is improving. Pensions and social benefits are being paid, taxes are being collected. The next step is the payment of wages to public sector workers," Pushilin said.