Olexander Motsyk

In the recent months, the Ukrainian people have had to defend their choice of democracy and freedom — with arms in their hands. This situation emerged not as a result of our political process. In fact, in the years of independence, the Ukrainians have always managed to reach compromise without bloodshed. We're a peaceful nation that wants to have the right to decide its destiny independently and to have good relations with all other states.

Today Russia tries in vain to convince everyone that there's a civil war in Ukraine. Luckily, the world has well realized the price of words and promises of the Russian leadership. There's no doubt that the conflict was brought to Ukraine from the outside by Russian mercenaries and servicemen of Russia's regular army. Therefore, peace will return to our state as soon as the last foreign aggressor leaves our land and the territorial integrity of our state is restored. I am certain that the Ukrainian society will find rapid solutions to domestic challenges as soon as it gets an opportunity for internal dialogue without external pressure.

President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko gave a clear message of the readiness for a peace dialogue. His peace plan formed the basis of the recent Minsk accords. Ukraine fulfills its obligations gradually. Unfortunately, Russia keeps on neglecting its obligations. Despite the proclaimed cease-fire, Russian army and pro-Russian terrorists continue murdering Ukrainian servicemen and civilians.

Ukraine has found itself on the front line of the war between the western democratic values and Russia's expansionist policy. The Ukrainian people defend not only themselves, but also Europe in which we see our future. We are thankful for the assistance we've already received, but hope that the West will keep on building up its efforts to counter the Russian aggression. The sanctions represent the tool to achieve stability and peace in Ukraine. They must remain in force and grow stronger until thus goal is reached.

We are ready to reboot our relations with Russia, which has always been our strategic trading partner. The current conflict makes all sides lose. Our conditions are simple and legitimate: adherence to international law, respect of sovereignty and restoration of Ukraine's territorial integrity.

The conflict can be and has to be resolved by diplomatic means. Everything will depend on practical steps by the Russian leadership.

Olexander Motsyk is Ukraine's ambassador to the United States.

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