Kiev is blackmailing PACE with its statements on non-participation in its work in case of Russia’s return but is unlikely to go that far, Chairman of Russia’s State Duma lower house International Affairs Committee and head of the Russian delegation at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) Alexei Pushkov told TASS on Tuesday.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Pavel Klimkin earlier said that Kiev may consider termination of its participation in PACE work, if a decision is made on restoring the powers of the Russian delegation in that organization.
“I believe Klimkin’s statement that Ukraine may withdraw from PACE, if all powers are returned to Russia, is an attempt to blackmail the assembly’s leadership,” Pushkov said.
The parliamentarian added though that Kiev will hardly make up its mind to leave PACE. “For a country that has not so many capabilities to influence the situation that would mean that it would deprive itself of one of these opportunities,” he noted. “This frequent intimidation is aimed at a certain psychological effect, at drawing attention to Ukraine’s stance once again.” “However, due to the fact that this stance never changes, and Ukraine shows no disposition whatsoever towards resuming dialogue with Russia, I do not think at the moment it will be viewed positively in serious political circles in European countries,” the lawmaker said.
- Будь в курсе последних новостей и интересных статей, подписывайся на наш канал «NovorossiaToday»
- Be aware of the current events and interesting articles, subscribe to our channel «NovorossiaToday»
- Pour ne rien manquer de la derniere actualite et des articles interessants, suis notre chaine Telegram en direct«NovorossiaToday»
