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The Blood of Europe
- Thread starter Giuseppe
- Start date
Giuseppe
Emeritus
Re: The Blood of Europe
My post was a pre-emptive strike! But it is enough to connect to CNN/Yahoo!/FP/Independent/WSJ to follow the drums of war!
My post was a pre-emptive strike! But it is enough to connect to CNN/Yahoo!/FP/Independent/WSJ to follow the drums of war!
Pathfinder
Editor, Senior Moderator
Re: The Blood of Europe
Ukraine 'a country on edge,' says UN deputy chief, urging dialogue among all parties
6 March 2014 ? Describing strife-torn Ukraine as ?a country on edge?, Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson today called for an end to the ?provocative rhetoric? that was stoking tensions there, and stressed the readiness of the United Nations to facilitate meaningful dialogue among all the key parties to help ease the crisis.
?While the situation in Kiev is stable, there have been disturbing reports from some parts of the country, primarily Crimea,? Mr. Eliasson said, briefing the Security Council by video from Kiev, where he has been since Monday after having been sent by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on an urgent mission to de-escalate a dangerous situation in Ukraine and assess conditions for a peaceful settlement of the crisis.
Following months of political unrest, triggered by the Government's decision last November not to sign an agreement on broader European integration, Kiev erupted in violent demonstrations and street clashes in late January, culminating with the removal by Parliament of President Viktor Yanukovych. Tensions have been mounting in the Crimea region, where additional Russian troops and armoured vehicles have reportedly been deployed.
According to a note to correspondents issued this evening by a UN spokesperson in New York, Mr. Eliasson said Ukraine is ?grappling with a series of fast-moving and serious challenges.? In Crimea, he cited examples such as blockades of Ukrainian military bases by armed elements with no insignias and attempts to intimidate international envoys, including the Secretary-General's Special Advisor, Robert Serry, who was threatened yesterday by a number of unidentified men that demanded he leave the region.
Mr. Eliasson said that in all of his meetings in Ukraine, he had underlined the urgent need for de-escalation and for a political solution to the country's current crisis. Apart from a military de-escalation, he said that there is a need to end provocative rhetoric that has only served to heighten tensions.
According to the note, he had called for meaningful dialogue among all key parties, and stressed that the UN remains ready to do its part to facilitate such dialogue. He emphasized that the Organization's efforts are rooted in the UN Charter, in particular the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity and of the peaceful settlement of disputes. He also underlined the importance of adhering to the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
As for his meetings, Mr. Eliasson said that he held talks with Ukrainian authorities, including the Acting President, the Prime Minister and the Acting Foreign Minister. He also met with civil society representatives, including Orthodox Church leaders, as well as members of the diplomatic community.
Mr. Eliasson emphasized the need for unity, diversity and inclusion in Ukraine, and the importance that all parts of the country and all segments of the population have a sense of participation in building their future. He also noted that the Secretary-General remains actively engaged on the situation in Ukraine, reaching out to key international actors on the urgent need to find a political solution.
The Deputy Secretary-General stated that the international community has been working on initiatives that will support the people of Ukraine and contribute to de-escalating the situation in the country. While in Ukraine, he consulted closely with the OSCE to determine how to the two organizations could best work in coordination to support human rights, monitor the security situation and address minority concerns, among other efforts.
Mr. Eliasson also informed the Council that UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, Ivan Simonovic, had just arrived in Kiev, following a request by the Secretary-General to immediately travel to Ukraine. Mr. Simonovic is set to visit the East, West and South of the country, including Crimea, to evaluate the current human rights situation.
Finally, the Deputy UN chief underscored the need for a solution that will benefit all of the people of Ukraine and the region and ensure the maintenance of international peace and security.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=47292&Cr=ukraine&Cr1=
Ukraine 'a country on edge,' says UN deputy chief, urging dialogue among all parties
6 March 2014 ? Describing strife-torn Ukraine as ?a country on edge?, Deputy Secretary-General Jan Eliasson today called for an end to the ?provocative rhetoric? that was stoking tensions there, and stressed the readiness of the United Nations to facilitate meaningful dialogue among all the key parties to help ease the crisis.
?While the situation in Kiev is stable, there have been disturbing reports from some parts of the country, primarily Crimea,? Mr. Eliasson said, briefing the Security Council by video from Kiev, where he has been since Monday after having been sent by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on an urgent mission to de-escalate a dangerous situation in Ukraine and assess conditions for a peaceful settlement of the crisis.
Following months of political unrest, triggered by the Government's decision last November not to sign an agreement on broader European integration, Kiev erupted in violent demonstrations and street clashes in late January, culminating with the removal by Parliament of President Viktor Yanukovych. Tensions have been mounting in the Crimea region, where additional Russian troops and armoured vehicles have reportedly been deployed.
According to a note to correspondents issued this evening by a UN spokesperson in New York, Mr. Eliasson said Ukraine is ?grappling with a series of fast-moving and serious challenges.? In Crimea, he cited examples such as blockades of Ukrainian military bases by armed elements with no insignias and attempts to intimidate international envoys, including the Secretary-General's Special Advisor, Robert Serry, who was threatened yesterday by a number of unidentified men that demanded he leave the region.
Mr. Eliasson said that in all of his meetings in Ukraine, he had underlined the urgent need for de-escalation and for a political solution to the country's current crisis. Apart from a military de-escalation, he said that there is a need to end provocative rhetoric that has only served to heighten tensions.
According to the note, he had called for meaningful dialogue among all key parties, and stressed that the UN remains ready to do its part to facilitate such dialogue. He emphasized that the Organization's efforts are rooted in the UN Charter, in particular the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity and of the peaceful settlement of disputes. He also underlined the importance of adhering to the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
As for his meetings, Mr. Eliasson said that he held talks with Ukrainian authorities, including the Acting President, the Prime Minister and the Acting Foreign Minister. He also met with civil society representatives, including Orthodox Church leaders, as well as members of the diplomatic community.
Mr. Eliasson emphasized the need for unity, diversity and inclusion in Ukraine, and the importance that all parts of the country and all segments of the population have a sense of participation in building their future. He also noted that the Secretary-General remains actively engaged on the situation in Ukraine, reaching out to key international actors on the urgent need to find a political solution.
The Deputy Secretary-General stated that the international community has been working on initiatives that will support the people of Ukraine and contribute to de-escalating the situation in the country. While in Ukraine, he consulted closely with the OSCE to determine how to the two organizations could best work in coordination to support human rights, monitor the security situation and address minority concerns, among other efforts.
Mr. Eliasson also informed the Council that UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, Ivan Simonovic, had just arrived in Kiev, following a request by the Secretary-General to immediately travel to Ukraine. Mr. Simonovic is set to visit the East, West and South of the country, including Crimea, to evaluate the current human rights situation.
Finally, the Deputy UN chief underscored the need for a solution that will benefit all of the people of Ukraine and the region and ensure the maintenance of international peace and security.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=47292&Cr=ukraine&Cr1=
Pathfinder
Editor, Senior Moderator
Re: The Blood of Europe
Proposed Crimea referendum ?worrying and serious? development ? UN
7 March 2014 ? Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today emphasized the need for peace and stability in Ukraine?s Crimea region, where the announcement of a referendum on joining Russia constitutes a ?worrying and serious? development.
Lawmakers in the autonomous Ukrainian region of Crimea voted yesterday to join Russia and to hold a referendum on 16 March to validate the decision. The move comes amid rising tensions in the region, where additional Russian troops and armoured vehicles have recently been deployed, and against the backdrop of the protests and violence that have plagued Ukraine since last November.
?The recent announcement by the authorities in Crimea that they intend to hold a referendum is a worrying and serious development,? UN spokesperson Martin Nesirky told reporters in New York. ?In this regard, the Secretary-General urges the authorities in Ukraine, including in Crimea, to treat this matter with calm.?
Mr. Nesirky said it should be noted that referendums usually have clear rules on national constitutional law that should be looked into ?carefully and dispassionately.?
?All concerned should think about the implications of any hasty actions or decisions taken in the heat of the moment. The Secretary-General cannot emphasize enough the need for peace and stability in the region,? he added.
...
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=47304&Cr=ukraine&Cr1=
Proposed Crimea referendum ?worrying and serious? development ? UN
7 March 2014 ? Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today emphasized the need for peace and stability in Ukraine?s Crimea region, where the announcement of a referendum on joining Russia constitutes a ?worrying and serious? development.
Lawmakers in the autonomous Ukrainian region of Crimea voted yesterday to join Russia and to hold a referendum on 16 March to validate the decision. The move comes amid rising tensions in the region, where additional Russian troops and armoured vehicles have recently been deployed, and against the backdrop of the protests and violence that have plagued Ukraine since last November.
?The recent announcement by the authorities in Crimea that they intend to hold a referendum is a worrying and serious development,? UN spokesperson Martin Nesirky told reporters in New York. ?In this regard, the Secretary-General urges the authorities in Ukraine, including in Crimea, to treat this matter with calm.?
Mr. Nesirky said it should be noted that referendums usually have clear rules on national constitutional law that should be looked into ?carefully and dispassionately.?
?All concerned should think about the implications of any hasty actions or decisions taken in the heat of the moment. The Secretary-General cannot emphasize enough the need for peace and stability in the region,? he added.
...
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=47304&Cr=ukraine&Cr1=
Giuseppe
Emeritus
Re: The Blood of Europe
Useful to remind that Kovoso declared itself independent from Serbia despite the UN resolution approved by all parts involved established exactly the contrary.
Subsequently, the same act was backed by major Powers, as stated, for example, in this article: http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp/story.asp?Cr=kosovo&Cr1=&NewsID=35396#.Uxs45meUOCg
An excerpt:
(...)
Clearly, a similar situation may be envised in Krim, after all...
Almost all UN resolution concerning Palestinians Territories and Gaza Strip had been violated in the last five decades by Israeli governments without a noticeable upset by Westerners.
In this scenario, where one side refuses to admit its faults and incoherence, or lack of proof, it is clear that the Russian counterpart will behave accordingly, pushing for an (almost) autonomous Krim from the new (unelect) new Ukrainian government.
The most important thing is to avoid a Balkan-like scenario, where apartment neighbors become suddenly enemy and kill their respective families after having passed a century in the same town.
We can't accept a vision of the world like this, not after the carnage in the former Yugoslavija territories, and after the disaster in Iraq and Afghanistan.
GM
Useful to remind that Kovoso declared itself independent from Serbia despite the UN resolution approved by all parts involved established exactly the contrary.
Subsequently, the same act was backed by major Powers, as stated, for example, in this article: http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp/story.asp?Cr=kosovo&Cr1=&NewsID=35396#.Uxs45meUOCg
An excerpt:
(...)
Clearly, a similar situation may be envised in Krim, after all...
Almost all UN resolution concerning Palestinians Territories and Gaza Strip had been violated in the last five decades by Israeli governments without a noticeable upset by Westerners.
In this scenario, where one side refuses to admit its faults and incoherence, or lack of proof, it is clear that the Russian counterpart will behave accordingly, pushing for an (almost) autonomous Krim from the new (unelect) new Ukrainian government.
The most important thing is to avoid a Balkan-like scenario, where apartment neighbors become suddenly enemy and kill their respective families after having passed a century in the same town.
We can't accept a vision of the world like this, not after the carnage in the former Yugoslavija territories, and after the disaster in Iraq and Afghanistan.
GM
Emily
Editor, Senior Moderator
Emily
Editor, Senior Moderator
Re: The Blood of Europe
Sometimes business interests seem pacifist, but then sometimes not -
http://www.fas.org/man/smedley.htm
Sometimes business interests seem pacifist, but then sometimes not -
http://www.fas.org/man/smedley.htm
Emily
Editor, Senior Moderator
Re: The Blood of Europe
http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/03/13/us-ukraine-austria-firtash-idUSBREA2C14V20140313
Seemingly strange machinations if a united Ukraine is the goal.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/03/13/us-ukraine-austria-firtash-idUSBREA2C14V20140313
Seemingly strange machinations if a united Ukraine is the goal.
Giuseppe
Emeritus
Re: The Blood of Europe
The situation is out of control and hardly Krim will be part of the 'new' and 'democratic' Ukraine in future, as happened in 1999 after the Serbia 'invasion' by NATO and the subsequent 'illegal' referendum in Kosovo province, now 'de-facto' an independent state, well Beyond the Agreement between the parts involved that stated the integrity of Serbia with an wide autonomy of the Albanian-speaking province.
Western Block (we have to return to the 'old language' of the Cold War) is experiencing the predicted 'return' in terms of violations of international rules, with invasion, wars and other acts (like the drone targeted killings and the several coups in unfriendly states), this time from a Big One, the Russian Federation, that - it must be reminded - has nuclear capabilities and a strong arsenal of mid- and long-range ballistic missiles, that - even armed with conventional weapons - could cause severe damages in some European countries that host NATO bases.
An apparently incident of no importance - as the regime change in Ukraine - may have profound and unpredictable long-term consequences for the entire continent.
GM
The situation is out of control and hardly Krim will be part of the 'new' and 'democratic' Ukraine in future, as happened in 1999 after the Serbia 'invasion' by NATO and the subsequent 'illegal' referendum in Kosovo province, now 'de-facto' an independent state, well Beyond the Agreement between the parts involved that stated the integrity of Serbia with an wide autonomy of the Albanian-speaking province.
Western Block (we have to return to the 'old language' of the Cold War) is experiencing the predicted 'return' in terms of violations of international rules, with invasion, wars and other acts (like the drone targeted killings and the several coups in unfriendly states), this time from a Big One, the Russian Federation, that - it must be reminded - has nuclear capabilities and a strong arsenal of mid- and long-range ballistic missiles, that - even armed with conventional weapons - could cause severe damages in some European countries that host NATO bases.
An apparently incident of no importance - as the regime change in Ukraine - may have profound and unpredictable long-term consequences for the entire continent.
GM
Pathfinder
Editor, Senior Moderator
Re: The Blood of Europe
18 March 2014 Last updated at 10:13 ET
Ukraine crisis: Putin signs Russia-Crimea treaty
...
President Vladimir Putin and the leaders of Crimea have signed a bill to absorb the peninsula into Russia.
Mr Putin told parliament Crimea had "always been part of Russia" and he had corrected a "historical injustice".
Crimea was taken over by pro-Russian forces in late February after Ukraine's president was ousted, and declared independence from Ukraine on Monday.
...
The Ukrainian foreign ministry said: "We do not recognise and never will recognise the so-called independence or the so-called agreement on Crimea joining the Russian Federation."
...
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-26630062
18 March 2014 Last updated at 10:13 ET
Ukraine crisis: Putin signs Russia-Crimea treaty
...
President Vladimir Putin and the leaders of Crimea have signed a bill to absorb the peninsula into Russia.
Mr Putin told parliament Crimea had "always been part of Russia" and he had corrected a "historical injustice".
Crimea was taken over by pro-Russian forces in late February after Ukraine's president was ousted, and declared independence from Ukraine on Monday.
...
The Ukrainian foreign ministry said: "We do not recognise and never will recognise the so-called independence or the so-called agreement on Crimea joining the Russian Federation."
...
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-26630062
Pathfinder
Editor, Senior Moderator
Re: The Blood of Europe
Ban heads to Russia and Ukraine amid rising tensions; Security Council briefed on latest events
19 March 2014 ? With Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon headed to Russia and Ukraine as part of his diplomatic efforts to de-escalate current tensions, the Security Council heard senior United Nations officials in New York urge adherence to fundamental principles of the UN Charter, including respect for Ukraine?s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and ensuring respect for the human rights of all.
?It is in the spirit of the UN Charter that [the Secretary-General] now embarks on his mission to Moscow and Kiev,? said Deputy Secretary-General, Jan Eliasson, who, alongside UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, Ivan Simonovic, briefed the Council on the latest events in the crisis-torn region.
Mr. Ban?s first stop will be the Russian capital, where he will meet on Thursday with President Vladimir Putin, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and other senior officials, according to the Secretary-General?s spokesperson.
On Friday, the UN chief will travel to Kiev, where he will hold talks with Acting President Oleksandr Turchynov, Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk and other officials. While in the Ukrainian capital, he will also meet with members of the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission and representatives of civil society.
Mr. Eliasson said that since his own mission to Ukraine at the beginning of the month, ?the crisis has continued to deepen [and] tensions in Crimea and in eastern Ukraine continue to rise?we are now faced with risks of a dangerous further escalation that could have ramifications for international peace and security and have serious significance for this Council and for the United Nations.?
Laying out a succinct timeline of the ?fast-moving and serious? events, he told the Council: Crimean authorities had announced that close to 97 per cent of those who voted in Sunday?s referendum did so in favour of secession from Ukraine; subsequently, Crimea declared its independence, which in turn was recognized by Russia; Monday the European Union and the United States moved to apply targeted sanctions against Russian and Crimean officials.
Further: President Putin has signed a treaty to make Crimea part of the Russian Federation; the Government in Kiev meanwhile has committed to never accept Crimea?s independence or annexation, stating that Crimea is an integral part of Ukraine; and yesterday, Ukraine's Prime Minister expressed concern that the conflict in the Crimean peninsula is ?shifting from a political to a military stage.?
?This followed reports that a Ukrainian officer was killed in front of a Ukrainian military base on the outskirts of Simferopol,? Mr. Eliasson continued, noting that after this incident, the Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister planned to travel to Crimea today. In turn, the Crimean leadership has allegedly stated that Ukraine's officials would be turned back.
?This underscores the dire need for the immediate opening of direct dialogue between Moscow and Kiev.?
He said that reports are emerging today that two Ukrainian naval bases in Crimea have been taken over by pro-Russian forces or unidentified groups.
While initial reports suggest that the seizures of bases have so far occurred without bloodshed, such developments obviously carry grave risks. ?The Secretary-General has constantly underlined the importance of avoiding further provocative actions and of refraining from incitement,? said Mr. Eliasson.
?These latest events have heightened tensions and added new layers of complexity to an already precarious situation.?
Mr. Eliasson noted that in a wider perspective, all should recall that Russia and Ukraine remain neighbours, with close, often complex, historic, cultural, economic and political ties. ?It is our view that it is in the interest of all of us that these two nations have positive ties, with each other and with the broader region. But the first step in that direction has to be based on immediate de-escalation and restraint in the present crisis.?
Echoing some of the Secretary-General?s key recent messages, Mr. Eliasson said: ?It is clear that we are at a crossroads. If positions continue to harden and rhetoric continues to sharpen, there is great risk of a dangerous downward spiral. ?The focus must be to engage in direct dialogue between Moscow and Kiev aimed at agreeing on specific measures that will pave the way towards a diplomatic solution.?
?I only wish to add that our primary diplomatic tool is constructive dialogue on the basis of the chapter in the Charter on pacific settlement of disputes,? said the UN Deputy chief, adding that the Organization will continue to play its role of promoting dialogue for a peaceful and joint resolution of this crisis, ?which now has become more serious than ever.?
Months of political unrest in Ukraine led to the removal by Parliament of President Viktor Yanukovych in February, followed by increased tensions in the country?s autonomous region of Crimea, where additional Russian military were recently deployed and a secession referendum was held on Sunday.
Throughout the crisis, the Secretary-General and senior UN officials have consistently called for a solution that is guided by the principles of the UN Charter and that respects Ukraine?s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=47381&Cr=ukraine&Cr1=
Ban heads to Russia and Ukraine amid rising tensions; Security Council briefed on latest events
19 March 2014 ? With Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon headed to Russia and Ukraine as part of his diplomatic efforts to de-escalate current tensions, the Security Council heard senior United Nations officials in New York urge adherence to fundamental principles of the UN Charter, including respect for Ukraine?s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and ensuring respect for the human rights of all.
?It is in the spirit of the UN Charter that [the Secretary-General] now embarks on his mission to Moscow and Kiev,? said Deputy Secretary-General, Jan Eliasson, who, alongside UN Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, Ivan Simonovic, briefed the Council on the latest events in the crisis-torn region.
Mr. Ban?s first stop will be the Russian capital, where he will meet on Thursday with President Vladimir Putin, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and other senior officials, according to the Secretary-General?s spokesperson.
On Friday, the UN chief will travel to Kiev, where he will hold talks with Acting President Oleksandr Turchynov, Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk and other officials. While in the Ukrainian capital, he will also meet with members of the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission and representatives of civil society.
Mr. Eliasson said that since his own mission to Ukraine at the beginning of the month, ?the crisis has continued to deepen [and] tensions in Crimea and in eastern Ukraine continue to rise?we are now faced with risks of a dangerous further escalation that could have ramifications for international peace and security and have serious significance for this Council and for the United Nations.?
Laying out a succinct timeline of the ?fast-moving and serious? events, he told the Council: Crimean authorities had announced that close to 97 per cent of those who voted in Sunday?s referendum did so in favour of secession from Ukraine; subsequently, Crimea declared its independence, which in turn was recognized by Russia; Monday the European Union and the United States moved to apply targeted sanctions against Russian and Crimean officials.
Further: President Putin has signed a treaty to make Crimea part of the Russian Federation; the Government in Kiev meanwhile has committed to never accept Crimea?s independence or annexation, stating that Crimea is an integral part of Ukraine; and yesterday, Ukraine's Prime Minister expressed concern that the conflict in the Crimean peninsula is ?shifting from a political to a military stage.?
?This followed reports that a Ukrainian officer was killed in front of a Ukrainian military base on the outskirts of Simferopol,? Mr. Eliasson continued, noting that after this incident, the Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister planned to travel to Crimea today. In turn, the Crimean leadership has allegedly stated that Ukraine's officials would be turned back.
?This underscores the dire need for the immediate opening of direct dialogue between Moscow and Kiev.?
He said that reports are emerging today that two Ukrainian naval bases in Crimea have been taken over by pro-Russian forces or unidentified groups.
While initial reports suggest that the seizures of bases have so far occurred without bloodshed, such developments obviously carry grave risks. ?The Secretary-General has constantly underlined the importance of avoiding further provocative actions and of refraining from incitement,? said Mr. Eliasson.
?These latest events have heightened tensions and added new layers of complexity to an already precarious situation.?
Mr. Eliasson noted that in a wider perspective, all should recall that Russia and Ukraine remain neighbours, with close, often complex, historic, cultural, economic and political ties. ?It is our view that it is in the interest of all of us that these two nations have positive ties, with each other and with the broader region. But the first step in that direction has to be based on immediate de-escalation and restraint in the present crisis.?
Echoing some of the Secretary-General?s key recent messages, Mr. Eliasson said: ?It is clear that we are at a crossroads. If positions continue to harden and rhetoric continues to sharpen, there is great risk of a dangerous downward spiral. ?The focus must be to engage in direct dialogue between Moscow and Kiev aimed at agreeing on specific measures that will pave the way towards a diplomatic solution.?
?I only wish to add that our primary diplomatic tool is constructive dialogue on the basis of the chapter in the Charter on pacific settlement of disputes,? said the UN Deputy chief, adding that the Organization will continue to play its role of promoting dialogue for a peaceful and joint resolution of this crisis, ?which now has become more serious than ever.?
Months of political unrest in Ukraine led to the removal by Parliament of President Viktor Yanukovych in February, followed by increased tensions in the country?s autonomous region of Crimea, where additional Russian military were recently deployed and a secession referendum was held on Sunday.
Throughout the crisis, the Secretary-General and senior UN officials have consistently called for a solution that is guided by the principles of the UN Charter and that respects Ukraine?s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=47381&Cr=ukraine&Cr1=
Pathfinder
Editor, Senior Moderator
Re: The Blood of Europe
In Russia, Ban calls for ‘honest and constructive dialogue between Kiev and Moscow’
Secretary
-General Ban Ki-moon (left) meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe
20 March 2014 – Leading diplomatic efforts to encourage all parties involved in the Ukraine crisis to find a peaceful solution, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon met today with Russian President Vladimir Putin and emphasized the need for de-escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, and restoring the “brotherly relationship” between the two countries.
“It is clear that we are at a crossroads. I will continue to fulfil my duty as Secretary-General of the United Nations and engage with all relevant parties. We must employ every possible diplomatic tool at our disposal to solve this crisis, which has grave political and economic ramifications,” stressed Mr. Ban, in a statement to the press in Moscow, earlier today.
Following a “very productive and constructive meeting” with President Putin, Mr. Ban highlighted Russia’s crucial position in the international scene. “As a permanent member of the Security Council, Russia is critical to the maintenance of international peace and security – nowhere more so than in this region,” he said.
The UN chief added that “President Putin has been one of the most important partners to the United Nations and he has been an international leader who has repeatedly called for international disputes to be solved within the framework of the United Nations Charter.”
During his meeting, Mr. Ban called on all parties to “refrain from any hasty or provocative actions that could further exacerbate an already very tense and very volatile situation. Inflammatory rhetoric can lead to further tensions and possible miscalculations, as well as dangerous counter-reactions.”
<SMALL></SMALL>
<SMALL>Secretary-</SMALL><SMALL>General Ban Ki-moon briefs reporters at the Kremlin in Moscow. UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe</SMALL>
<SMALL></SMALL>
<SMALL>Secretary</SMALL><SMALL>-General Ban Ki-moon (back to camera) in meeting with President Vladimir Putin. UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe</SMALL>
<SMALL></SMALL>
<SMALL>Secretary</SMALL><SMALL>-General Ban Ki-moon (right) with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov prior to their working lunch meeting. UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe</SMALL>
<SMALL>Secretary</SMALL><SMALL>-General Ban Ki-moon at a working lunch meeting hosted by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe</SMALL>
Months of political unrest in Ukraine led to the removal by Parliament of President Viktor Yanukovych in February, followed by increased tensions in the country’s autonomous region of Crimea, where additional Russian military were recently deployed and a secession referendum was held this past Sunday.
Expressing his “profound concern” regarding “the recent incident where Ukrainian military bases were taken over,” the Secretary-General insisted that “it is at moments like this in history that a small incident can quickly lead to a situation spiralling out of anyone’s control,” and stressed that “an honest and constructive dialogue between Kyiv and Moscow is essential.”
“I told President Putin that I understand his legitimate concerns related to the situation of the Russian minority in Ukraine. I have said from the beginning of this crisis that it is critical that the human rights of all people in Ukraine, especially minorities, must be respected and protected,” Mr. Ban stressed, applauding the recent commitment by Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk to reinstate Russian as an official language in Ukraine along with other positive measures.
As UN human rights monitors are starting to deploy in Ukraine – including to eastern parts of the country – the Secretary-General will be continuing his diplomatic mission by traveling to Kiev and meeting with Ukrainian Acting President Oleksandr Turchynov and Prime Minister Yatsenyuk.
Recalling that Russia and Ukraine are two founding members of the UN, Mr Ban concluded: “The world is watching and history will judge us on how we assume our responsibilities and our actions as they relate to the fundamental principles of the UN Charter.”
Throughout the crisis, the Secretary-General and senior UN officials have consistently called for a solution that is guided by the principles of the UN Charter and that respects Ukraine’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Briefing the Security Council yesterday in New York, UN Deputy Secretary-General, Jan Eliasson laid out a succinct timeline of the “fast-moving and serious” recent events: Crimean authorities had announced that close to 97 per cent of those who voted in Sunday’s referendum did so in favour of secession from Ukraine; subsequently, Crimea declared its independence, which in turn was recognized by Russia; Monday the European Union and the United States moved to apply targeted sanctions against Russian and Crimean officials.
Further: President Putin has signed a treaty to make Crimea part of the Russian Federation; the Government in Kiev meanwhile has committed to never accept Crimea’s independence or annexation, stating that Crimea is an integral part of Ukraine; and yesterday, Ukraine's Prime Minister expressed concern that the conflict in the Crimean peninsula is ‘shifting from a political to a military stage.’ “This underscores the dire need for the immediate opening of direct dialogue between Moscow and Kiev,” he told the Council.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=47390&Cr=ukraine&Cr1=
In Russia, Ban calls for ‘honest and constructive dialogue between Kiev and Moscow’
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon (left) meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe
20 March 2014 – Leading diplomatic efforts to encourage all parties involved in the Ukraine crisis to find a peaceful solution, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon met today with Russian President Vladimir Putin and emphasized the need for de-escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, and restoring the “brotherly relationship” between the two countries.
“It is clear that we are at a crossroads. I will continue to fulfil my duty as Secretary-General of the United Nations and engage with all relevant parties. We must employ every possible diplomatic tool at our disposal to solve this crisis, which has grave political and economic ramifications,” stressed Mr. Ban, in a statement to the press in Moscow, earlier today.
Following a “very productive and constructive meeting” with President Putin, Mr. Ban highlighted Russia’s crucial position in the international scene. “As a permanent member of the Security Council, Russia is critical to the maintenance of international peace and security – nowhere more so than in this region,” he said.
The UN chief added that “President Putin has been one of the most important partners to the United Nations and he has been an international leader who has repeatedly called for international disputes to be solved within the framework of the United Nations Charter.”
During his meeting, Mr. Ban called on all parties to “refrain from any hasty or provocative actions that could further exacerbate an already very tense and very volatile situation. Inflammatory rhetoric can lead to further tensions and possible miscalculations, as well as dangerous counter-reactions.”
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<SMALL>Secretary-</SMALL><SMALL>General Ban Ki-moon briefs reporters at the Kremlin in Moscow. UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe</SMALL>
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<SMALL>Secretary</SMALL><SMALL>-General Ban Ki-moon (back to camera) in meeting with President Vladimir Putin. UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe</SMALL>
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<SMALL>Secretary</SMALL><SMALL>-General Ban Ki-moon (right) with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov prior to their working lunch meeting. UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe</SMALL>
<SMALL>Secretary</SMALL><SMALL>-General Ban Ki-moon at a working lunch meeting hosted by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe</SMALL>
Months of political unrest in Ukraine led to the removal by Parliament of President Viktor Yanukovych in February, followed by increased tensions in the country’s autonomous region of Crimea, where additional Russian military were recently deployed and a secession referendum was held this past Sunday.
Expressing his “profound concern” regarding “the recent incident where Ukrainian military bases were taken over,” the Secretary-General insisted that “it is at moments like this in history that a small incident can quickly lead to a situation spiralling out of anyone’s control,” and stressed that “an honest and constructive dialogue between Kyiv and Moscow is essential.”
“I told President Putin that I understand his legitimate concerns related to the situation of the Russian minority in Ukraine. I have said from the beginning of this crisis that it is critical that the human rights of all people in Ukraine, especially minorities, must be respected and protected,” Mr. Ban stressed, applauding the recent commitment by Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk to reinstate Russian as an official language in Ukraine along with other positive measures.
As UN human rights monitors are starting to deploy in Ukraine – including to eastern parts of the country – the Secretary-General will be continuing his diplomatic mission by traveling to Kiev and meeting with Ukrainian Acting President Oleksandr Turchynov and Prime Minister Yatsenyuk.
Recalling that Russia and Ukraine are two founding members of the UN, Mr Ban concluded: “The world is watching and history will judge us on how we assume our responsibilities and our actions as they relate to the fundamental principles of the UN Charter.”
Throughout the crisis, the Secretary-General and senior UN officials have consistently called for a solution that is guided by the principles of the UN Charter and that respects Ukraine’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Briefing the Security Council yesterday in New York, UN Deputy Secretary-General, Jan Eliasson laid out a succinct timeline of the “fast-moving and serious” recent events: Crimean authorities had announced that close to 97 per cent of those who voted in Sunday’s referendum did so in favour of secession from Ukraine; subsequently, Crimea declared its independence, which in turn was recognized by Russia; Monday the European Union and the United States moved to apply targeted sanctions against Russian and Crimean officials.
Further: President Putin has signed a treaty to make Crimea part of the Russian Federation; the Government in Kiev meanwhile has committed to never accept Crimea’s independence or annexation, stating that Crimea is an integral part of Ukraine; and yesterday, Ukraine's Prime Minister expressed concern that the conflict in the Crimean peninsula is ‘shifting from a political to a military stage.’ “This underscores the dire need for the immediate opening of direct dialogue between Moscow and Kiev,” he told the Council.
http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=47390&Cr=ukraine&Cr1=
Emily
Editor, Senior Moderator
Re: The Blood of Europe
http://www.socialistworker.co.uk/art/37750/Ukraine+caught+in+clash+between+powers+as+Crimea+joins+Russia
Neither do ordinary people in the US or Europe. We just pay the bill.
http://fuelfix.com/blog/2014/03/18/tackling-gas-corruption-means-potatoes-for-ukraines-poor/
And the energy infrastructure in the US is not neglected with all the residential gas line explosions & people here walking around barking like seals from wood smoke induced bronchitis?
http://www.socialistworker.co.uk/art/37750/Ukraine+caught+in+clash+between+powers+as+Crimea+joins+Russia
Neither do ordinary people in the US or Europe. We just pay the bill.
http://fuelfix.com/blog/2014/03/18/tackling-gas-corruption-means-potatoes-for-ukraines-poor/
And the energy infrastructure in the US is not neglected with all the residential gas line explosions & people here walking around barking like seals from wood smoke induced bronchitis?
Emily
Editor, Senior Moderator
Re: The Blood of Europe
http://www.sheboyganpress.com/usatoday/article/6815709
Bet it won't affect the personal budgets of those imposing the sanctions.
http://vestnikkavkaza.net/interviews/politics/53030.html
http://www.sheboyganpress.com/usatoday/article/6815709
Bet it won't affect the personal budgets of those imposing the sanctions.
http://vestnikkavkaza.net/interviews/politics/53030.html
sharon sanders
Editor-in-Chief & President
The G8 is Now G7 With Expulsion of Russia
The G8 is Now G7 With Expulsion of Russia
G7 nations suspend Russia and scrap G8 summit
Leaders of G7 nations suspend Russia's membership of G8 and threaten to intensify sanctions in case of further unrest.
Last updated: 24 Mar 2014 23:53
more..
http://www.aljazeera.com/video/euro...ussia-scrap-g8-summit-201432422400577403.html
The G8 is Now G7 With Expulsion of Russia
G7 nations suspend Russia and scrap G8 summit
Leaders of G7 nations suspend Russia's membership of G8 and threaten to intensify sanctions in case of further unrest.
Last updated: 24 Mar 2014 23:53
more..
http://www.aljazeera.com/video/euro...ussia-scrap-g8-summit-201432422400577403.html
Giuseppe
Emeritus
Re: The Blood of Europe
The problem with G7/G8 is that this 'elite nations' Group does not matter longer at global level, as the G20 consensus has began to draw much more attention for the GDP that represents as well as the multi-faceted range of players participating at this latter meetings.
Furthermore, G7 (The Great Seven Nations) is not worthing either its name: one of the partner (Italy) has a GDP LOWER THAN RUSSIA and thus should be cut off as well, even considering its negligible importance at global level.
In fact G7 is not longer a big deal but only a 'd?pendance' of the US Department of State foreign policy...
Here in Italy we have a bad account of the G8 meetings: during the 2001 Genoa summit there was a fierce repression by police of authorized civil society rallies (with many injured, a Death and several cases of ascertained use of torture); during the 2008 summit at l'Aquila, immediately after the big quake that almost destroyed the ancient town and killed 300 people, the Eights were greeted by that time italian disgraced prime minister S. Berlusconi, now convincted of fiscal fraud and expecting to be jailed...
The problem with G7/G8 is that this 'elite nations' Group does not matter longer at global level, as the G20 consensus has began to draw much more attention for the GDP that represents as well as the multi-faceted range of players participating at this latter meetings.
Furthermore, G7 (The Great Seven Nations) is not worthing either its name: one of the partner (Italy) has a GDP LOWER THAN RUSSIA and thus should be cut off as well, even considering its negligible importance at global level.
In fact G7 is not longer a big deal but only a 'd?pendance' of the US Department of State foreign policy...
Here in Italy we have a bad account of the G8 meetings: during the 2001 Genoa summit there was a fierce repression by police of authorized civil society rallies (with many injured, a Death and several cases of ascertained use of torture); during the 2008 summit at l'Aquila, immediately after the big quake that almost destroyed the ancient town and killed 300 people, the Eights were greeted by that time italian disgraced prime minister S. Berlusconi, now convincted of fiscal fraud and expecting to be jailed...
Giuseppe
Emeritus
Re: The Blood of Europe
I am deeply sorry to have to return to this discussion, after fall, but the disconcerting amount of stupidity currently spreaded by mainsteam media in reporting an impending Ukraine full-blown invasion by Russia, as suggested by some vacuum-cleaner-brained (not my image, see below) think-tanks. For the following reasons:
-- a ground invasion of a country of the size of France with around 50 millions of inhabitants cannot be pursued with only the army forces;
-- before the ground invasion could start, a massive employ of cruise missiles have to be rocked in order to put out of order all terrestrial trasportation routes (both road, highways with international connections, railways), to disable air traffic control Towers and radar systems for civilian air transportation, and to neutralize counter-attack installations;
-- before the ground assault will take place, major power supply transportation lines have to be put down with proper use of grafite-laden missiles (power stations, oil and gas pumps and storage); to build further pression to population, some chemical plants have to be bombed, the toxic smoke will keep people indoor in awe to avoid they will support government;
-- air-fighter and bombers will deliver to the major town a load of destruction mainly directed to key bridges (as seen during US invasion in Iraq, where not a single bridge crossing Tygris remained up), some hospitals, certain communication centres (like radio-television tower in Belgrade, 1999) and possibly targeted transportation hubs (seen in Serbia, 1999).
-- After the shock and awe reached the purpose of make people scared to Death, a first wave of army divisions may enter to the ground and take place in key government buildings and compounds.
After this - and many civilians casualties (absolutely needed to put further terror into population) the first phase of the invasion may stop...
This for the nuts that continue to tell about a week-end surprise attack from Russia to Ukraine, that should start - in their crap words - within hours from now.
Yesterday, a big humanitarian - Gino Strada MD - head of the Non-governative organization Emergency (@emergency_ong) - has stolen some of his surgery time for participating in an Italian talk show to analize recent suggested increasing in defense spending by the US president Obama.
Having had some of the 'humanitarian wars' or 'war-on-terror' interventions led by US/NATO forces collateral damages under his surgical knives in the form of meat-grinded limb-burned body-dismembered children - his adversion to armed operations is total and unconditional.
He said various things in his confront with former italian defense minister, but the most importat of all is that you cannot permit to war-mongers to spend billions per months in warfare when 2 billions of people continue to live and die with 2US$ per day of income.
True humanitarian cannot stay silent in front to the possible acts from ''vacuum-cleaner-brained'' people such these little stupid leaders (his suggestion).
People must act to stop them before they will murder further children, further pregnant women, other unguilty civilians.
Please, unite to Gino Strada and many, many other doctors, nurses, common people that are taking care of the victims every day, silently, lonely and say a big NOT to the blood-thirsty stupid politicians!
None of the above musings reflect FluTrackers.com owner and members positions and the writer is the only responsible for them.
I am deeply sorry to have to return to this discussion, after fall, but the disconcerting amount of stupidity currently spreaded by mainsteam media in reporting an impending Ukraine full-blown invasion by Russia, as suggested by some vacuum-cleaner-brained (not my image, see below) think-tanks. For the following reasons:
-- a ground invasion of a country of the size of France with around 50 millions of inhabitants cannot be pursued with only the army forces;
-- before the ground invasion could start, a massive employ of cruise missiles have to be rocked in order to put out of order all terrestrial trasportation routes (both road, highways with international connections, railways), to disable air traffic control Towers and radar systems for civilian air transportation, and to neutralize counter-attack installations;
-- before the ground assault will take place, major power supply transportation lines have to be put down with proper use of grafite-laden missiles (power stations, oil and gas pumps and storage); to build further pression to population, some chemical plants have to be bombed, the toxic smoke will keep people indoor in awe to avoid they will support government;
-- air-fighter and bombers will deliver to the major town a load of destruction mainly directed to key bridges (as seen during US invasion in Iraq, where not a single bridge crossing Tygris remained up), some hospitals, certain communication centres (like radio-television tower in Belgrade, 1999) and possibly targeted transportation hubs (seen in Serbia, 1999).
-- After the shock and awe reached the purpose of make people scared to Death, a first wave of army divisions may enter to the ground and take place in key government buildings and compounds.
After this - and many civilians casualties (absolutely needed to put further terror into population) the first phase of the invasion may stop...
This for the nuts that continue to tell about a week-end surprise attack from Russia to Ukraine, that should start - in their crap words - within hours from now.
Yesterday, a big humanitarian - Gino Strada MD - head of the Non-governative organization Emergency (@emergency_ong) - has stolen some of his surgery time for participating in an Italian talk show to analize recent suggested increasing in defense spending by the US president Obama.
Having had some of the 'humanitarian wars' or 'war-on-terror' interventions led by US/NATO forces collateral damages under his surgical knives in the form of meat-grinded limb-burned body-dismembered children - his adversion to armed operations is total and unconditional.
He said various things in his confront with former italian defense minister, but the most importat of all is that you cannot permit to war-mongers to spend billions per months in warfare when 2 billions of people continue to live and die with 2US$ per day of income.
True humanitarian cannot stay silent in front to the possible acts from ''vacuum-cleaner-brained'' people such these little stupid leaders (his suggestion).
People must act to stop them before they will murder further children, further pregnant women, other unguilty civilians.
Please, unite to Gino Strada and many, many other doctors, nurses, common people that are taking care of the victims every day, silently, lonely and say a big NOT to the blood-thirsty stupid politicians!
None of the above musings reflect FluTrackers.com owner and members positions and the writer is the only responsible for them.
sharon sanders
Editor-in-Chief & President
Re: The Blood of Europe
The White House
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release March 28, 2014
Readout of the President?s Call with President Putin
President Putin called President Obama today to discuss the U.S. proposal for a diplomatic resolution to the crisis in Ukraine, which Secretary Kerry had again presented to Foreign Minister Lavrov at the meeting at the Hague earlier this week, and which we developed following U.S. consultations with our Ukrainian and European partners. President Obama suggested that Russia put a concrete response in writing and the presidents agreed that Kerry and Lavrov would meet to discuss next steps.
President Obama noted that the Ukrainian government continues to take a restrained and de-escalatory approach to the crisis and is moving ahead with constitutional reform and democratic elections, and urged Russia to support this process and avoid further provocations, including the buildup of forces on its border with Ukraine.
President Obama underscored to President Putin that the United States continues to support a diplomatic path in close consultation with the Government of Ukraine and in support of the Ukrainian people with the aim of de-escalation of the crisis. President Obama made clear that this remains possible only if Russia pulls back its troops and does not take any steps to further violate Ukraine?s territorial integrity and sovereignty. President Obama reiterated that the United States has strongly opposed the actions that Russia has already taken to violate Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
http://m.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2014/03/28/readout-president-s-call-president-putin
The White House
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release March 28, 2014
Readout of the President?s Call with President Putin
President Putin called President Obama today to discuss the U.S. proposal for a diplomatic resolution to the crisis in Ukraine, which Secretary Kerry had again presented to Foreign Minister Lavrov at the meeting at the Hague earlier this week, and which we developed following U.S. consultations with our Ukrainian and European partners. President Obama suggested that Russia put a concrete response in writing and the presidents agreed that Kerry and Lavrov would meet to discuss next steps.
President Obama noted that the Ukrainian government continues to take a restrained and de-escalatory approach to the crisis and is moving ahead with constitutional reform and democratic elections, and urged Russia to support this process and avoid further provocations, including the buildup of forces on its border with Ukraine.
President Obama underscored to President Putin that the United States continues to support a diplomatic path in close consultation with the Government of Ukraine and in support of the Ukrainian people with the aim of de-escalation of the crisis. President Obama made clear that this remains possible only if Russia pulls back its troops and does not take any steps to further violate Ukraine?s territorial integrity and sovereignty. President Obama reiterated that the United States has strongly opposed the actions that Russia has already taken to violate Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
http://m.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2014/03/28/readout-president-s-call-president-putin