All news

Prolonged conflict in Ukraine decreases possibility of diplomatic solution — Russian envoy

Gennady Gatilov cautioned that Moscow was expecting a long conflict as it reached a six-month mark, adding that currently he was not seeing an opportunity for diplomatic contacts between the sides

LONDON, August 22. /TASS/. A prolonged conflict in Ukraine stemming from Western weapons supplies to Kiev will seriously complicate the search for a diplomatic solution, Russian Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office and Other International Organizations in Geneva Gennady Gatilov said in an interview with the Financial Times.

"The more the conflict goes on, the more difficult it will be to have a diplomatic solution," he pointed out, adding that he did not see "any possibility for diplomatic contacts" between the parties.

According to Gatilov, Ukraine and a number of Western countries were showing their determination to "fight until the last Ukrainian," and continued western military support for Kiev was another proof of that. Besides, the politicization of the United Nations has "damaged the authority of the UN and its organizations", Gatilov noted. However, in his words, the UN could play a more positive role. In this regard, the Russian envoy pointed to a grain export deal.

As for the situation around the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant, Gatilov slammed Ukraine’s actions as "a clear provocation." "Russian troops are just guarding it. Just securing it. Why should we shell it?" he said.