June 4, 2015 - Ottawa, Ontario - Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
The Honourable Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., M.P. for Niagara Falls, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement condemning renewed attacks by Putin-backed separatists against several Ukrainian positions in eastern Ukraine:
“I am appalled by news from eastern Ukraine that Putin-backed separatists launched deadly attacks yesterday against Ukrainian positions near Donetsk city, in Maryinka and Krasnohorivka. These attacks are the latest in a persistent pattern of ceasefire violations carried out by insurgent forces over the past several months in clear contravention of the Minsk agreements.
“Moreover, the scale of Wednesday’s attacks, which involved the use of heavy weaponry prohibited under the terms of the February Minsk plan, represents an alarming, reckless and brutal escalation by Putin and his proxies in eastern Ukraine.
“Putin has the responsibility and the capability to prevent such attacks. Instead, Putin chooses to enable and directly support these assaults, in violation of its own commitments under the ceasefire plan. Canada will continue to work with the Government of Ukraine and with our allies to ensure that Putin continues to incur significant costs for his actions. We stand ready to impose further measures against Putin if Moscow refuses to halt its aggressive behaviour.”
Johanna Quinney
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
343-203-1851
johanna.quinney@international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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