U.S. Embassy: Russia pushes distorted interpretation of Minsk agreements

The U.S. Embassy in Ukraine underscores that Russia pushes a distorted interpretation of the Minsk agreements, in particular insisting on the “autonomy” for Russia-controlled Donbas.

“Yesterday, Secretary Blinken discussed possible avenues for a peaceful resolution of the crisis Russia prompted with its military buildup, including through implementation of the Minsk Agreements. Russia pushes a distorted interpretation of the Minsk agreements, including insisting on ‘autonomy’ for Russia-controlled Donbas,” the Embassy posted on Facebook on February 8.

As noted, the word “autonomy” is mentioned nowhere in the Minsk Agreements.

“Ukraine has repeatedly tried to implement Minsk in good faith, including passing a law on special status every year. Meanwhile, Russia violates the ceasefire, refuses to engage constructively on this issue and others, and pretends it is not a party to the conflict it instigated,” reads the statement.

On February 7, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the United States and Ukraine had common approaches towards the implementation of the Minsk agreements and expected Russia to fulfill its obligations under these agreements.

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