Russia must immediately stop the war in eastern Ukraine, and any attempt to escalate aggression will have grave consequences for the Kremlin. President of the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament) Jüri Ratas said this at a joint briefing with Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada (Ukrainian Parliament) Ruslan Stefanchuk Ukrainian parliament in Kyiv on Tuesday, February 8.
“Security is a priority today. The democratic world has no doubt that Ukraine’s territorial integrity and independence are unconditional. Invasion of an independent country is a gross violation of international law. The war in Donbas, which has been going on for eight years, must be stopped immediately. Any attempt to increase aggression will have severe consequences [for Russia],” Ratas said.
He added that since regaining independence 30 years ago, Estonia has pledged never to stand alone and has worked hard to become a reliable ally and partner in building collective security.
“We are aware of the importance and value of cooperation between democracies. We promise Ukraine: ‘You will never be left alone’,” Ratas said.