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Plotnitsky’s resignation as LPR head not to influence prisoner exchanges - LPR new leader

Leonid Pasechnik said the unrecognized republic was implementing the Minsk peace deal and "will carry out the swaps as stated"

LUGANSK, November 25. /TASS/. Igor Plotnitsky’s resignation as head of the self-proclaimed Lugansk People’s Republic (LPR) will have no influence on the process of prisoner swaps, LPR’s acting head Leonid Pasechnik told the local broadcaster on Saturday.

"Igor Venediktovich’s [Plotnitsky] resignation will definitely not affect the process of prisoner exchanges in any way," Pasechnik was cited by the Luganskinformcenter news agency. "The process is underway. The chiefs of police and people’s militia have checked all those who have been detained, are staying in our territory and are subject to exchange."

Pasechnik said the unrecognized republic was implementing the Minsk peace deal and "will carry out the swaps as stated."

On Friday, Igor Plotnitsky announced his resignation citing health problems. Minister of State Security Leonid Pasechnik was appointed acting head of the Lugansk People’s Republic until the next election. According to Pasechnik, Plotnitsky was appointed LPR’s envoy for the implementation of the Minsk agreements since his signature is under the document. In the meantime, Vladislav Deinego will keep performing duties of the republic’s representative to the peace talks in Minsk.

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