Negotiable solution to Ukraine crisis still possible - Russian envoy to UN
NEW YORK. July 18 (Interfax) - Russia still believes there are chances to settle the Ukraine crisis through negotiations, says Russian Permanent Representative at the UN Vitaly Churkin.
"The punitive operation in eastern Ukraine needs to be stopped immediately. A negotiable solution to the crisis is still possible. It is necessary finally to make the right choice," Churkin said at a UN Security Council session on Friday.
Russia has proposed three times that the UN Security Council adopt a resolution to stop bloodshed in Ukraine, but these proposals were not supported by Russia's Western partners, he said.
"Our Western colleagues reacted with blatant cynicism, saying they can't compromise their principles, and the government is free to do whatever it wishes. As they say, one could shoot himself out of principle. But why should the interests of the entire nation, the people of Ukraine, be sacrificed for someone's geopolitical ambitions?" Churkin said.
