Poland does not yet have plans to evacuate Poles from the southern Ukrainian city of Mariupol that some believe to be the next target of a separatist offensive.

Servicemen of Ukrainian volunteers battalion 'Azov' take part in exercises at a base in Mariupol, Ukraine, 09 February 2015. EPA/IVAN BOBERSKYY

“We have scenarios for every possible outcome in the region,” Deputy Foreign Minister Konrad Pawlik told MPs. “We are technically ready for any scenario, evacuation included. There is, however, no decision to evacuate as of now.”

The Polish consulate is in contact with Polish citizens and ethnic Poles in Mariupol and the area, he said.

The foreign ministry has a provisional list of potential evacuees, which counts 60 to 70 people.

Mariupol, a strategically important port on the Azov Sea, has previously been scene of fighting and could be the next target, as the Russian-backed separatists seek to extend their reach towards the annexed Crimea. (an)

Source: PAP