The denunciation of military agreements with Russia and, in particular, on transit through the Ukrainian territory of goods for the Russian peacekeepers in Pridnestrovie goes counter Ukraine's national interests. The Russian politician and public figure Nikolai Starikov expressed this opinion.
«There are Russian peacekeepers in Pridnestrovie today. They have international status. Ukraine is presented by a group of officers. Both states are guarantors of peace in Pridnestrovie. All of a sudden, Ukraine declares it will denounce the agreement on transit of goods for the peacekeepers. This transit has been ongoing since early 1990s. There have been no problems, and suddenly everything stops dead. In fact, this is a declaration of blockade of the Russian soldiers who fulfil the peacekeeping mission. Besides, they do it together with Ukraine. You must admit this position is very strange. Under these circumstances, Ukraine is acting counter to its national interests," said Nikolai Starikov.
He underscored that certain forces were using Kiev to involve Russia into a conflict with Ukraine and Moldova.
«They want to present Russia as an aggressor, by any means to make Russia a side to a conflict in Moldova and Ukraine. Moldova might be preparing to share Ukraine's fate. And Ukraine itself is starting to fan the flames in the neighbouring country. Why does it need that? Does it have few problems of its own? It is evident that the Americans are using the Ukrainian authorities to create huge problems for Russia. I hope very much that the Russian leadership will be wise enough to take certain steps and resolve the crisis by involving the international community," concluded the expert.
