Deliberate Kiev provocations could increase the risk of clashes – Russian diplomat – Russian Politics & Diplomacy

GENEVA, January 10. / TASS /. Russia is concerned about possible provocations from Ukraine, which could lead to an escalation and increase the risk of clashes, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told reporters on Monday. resulting from Russian-American consultations on security guarantees.

“We are alarmed at the possibility of deliberate provocations on the part of Ukraine, which Kiev can organize either alone or in cooperation with Western countries, such as the United States,” he said. “This can lead to a situation where clashes are more likely, and this should be avoided.”

High-ranking Russian diplomat says Moscow has no aggressive intentions towards the neighboring country, but will not give in to calls for de-escalation by refraining from military exercises and troop movements on its own territory .

“The types of activities mentioned above are necessary to maintain the combat readiness of our armed forces in a situation where the security landscape is changing and deteriorating,” Ryabkov continued. “Our actions in this area should in no way be taken as a reflection of our plans to attack Ukraine or to display aggression in any form.”

Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister criticized Kyiv officials for their aggressive public rhetoric, including promises to kill Russian soldiers and fire Ukrainian missiles at Russian towns, as well as allegations that the Ukrainian military is able to reach Moscow and cross Red Square.

“It is a huge tragedy when people use such phrases in order to gain political advantage. These words reveal a very low level of their political culture,” Ryabkov said.

“We are offering another solution, a different approach,” he added. “This implies the full implementation of the Minsk agreements and the building of a dialogue between Kiev and the Donetsk and Lugansk regions.”.