Kubilius sets action plan for Ukraine

Leader of Lithuania’s opposition, Chair of the Homeland Union - Lithuanian Christian Democratic Party (TS-LKD) Andrius Kubilius says that the Western countries should express a more urgent and stricter response to Russia's action in Crimeaand proposes an action plan, reports ELTA.

"I would like to state a fact - the conduct of Russia's President Vladimir Putin has become completely unreasonable and unpredictable. This conduct is based on elementary and uncontrollable fury over humiliating defeat; therefore, the situation is very serious and unpredictable," said MP Kubilius at a press conference on Monday, March 3.

According to the leader of the conservatives, if occupation begins in Crimeaand a so-called referendum on secession is held and a proper response from Western countries is not received, the same will be carried out in the entire eastern Ukraine. As a result, Kubilius proposes several measures that should be taken by Lithuaniatogether with Western allies.

Kubilius says that local separatism or referendums should not be recognized, the current situation in Crimeashould be further assessed as occupation of this region taken up by Russiaand international observes must be sent to Crimeaimmediately. If Russiadoes not withdraw troops, Kubilius calls on Lithuaniato request the introduction of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Crimea.

The leader of the opposition also proposes that the EU sign an association agreement with Ukraineas soon as possible - in the next several weeks. MP also urges to confirm Ukraine's NATO Membership Action Plan in the next meeting of NATO leaders.