Ukrainian President Volodymyr Selensky rejects autonomous status for separatist-controlled eastern Ukraine. He was not ready for it, Selenski said yesterday in Kiev. In a peace agreement, the status of the region would have to be clarified, Selenski said in a – world record-breaking long – press conference.
Selenski, who has been in office since May, is seeking peace for Donbass in the east of the country. In the conflict that has been going on for five years now, Ukrainian soldiers and separatists supported by Russia are constantly fighting. More than 13,000 people have been killed so far. The Ukrainian president accused Russia of blocking a summit to resolve the conflict. „We’re ready for a meeting anytime,“ Selenski said.
Planned troop withdrawal did not take place
Ukraine, France and Germany had planned to hold a meeting with Russia in Normandy format last month. The basis for this was the agreement of 1 October on a further separation of troops at the front in eastern Ukraine, the holding of local elections in parts of eastern Ukraine and the entry into force of the special status of the region.
This was followed by protests against Selensky in Ukraine. In addition, the planned withdrawal of both sides from the front line on 7 October did not take place. Now Selensky said he demands from Russia the guarantee that the pro-Russian separatists withdraw. The government in Moscow, on the other hand, demands that Ukraine must first withdraw its troops from Donbass before a hearing.
World record for longest press conference
The press conference Selenskis lasted more than twelve hours – probably a new world record. After about eight hours, a representative of the Ukrainian Records Agency got up and said that the 41-year-old had set a new record.
Selensky himself was surprised and stressed that he was „modest“ and against large celebrations. By his own admission, Selenski was sprayed before the press conference to strengthen his vocal cords.
