The situation in eastern Ukraine is deeply concerning. Russia has deployed up to 100,000 troops near the Ukrainian border, and the tensions could have serious consequences for security in both Ukraine and the rest of Europe.
Today, Foreign Minister Jeppe Kofod visited the Ukrainian contact line to emphasize Denmark’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty. Minister Kofod met the Ukrainian generals who lead the military operations in eastern Ukraine and talked to some of the soldiers who are trying to protect Ukraine’s border.
Foreign Minister Jeppe Kofod states:
“Russia’s threats and aggressive behavior towards Ukraine is completely unacceptable. It is entirely up to the Ukrainian people to determine the future of their country. That is why it is so important that we stand with Ukraine. And insist on Ukraine’s right to be a free and independent country within their own borders. That is not for Russia or anyone else to decide. That is the reason I am in Ukraine today. To stand with Ukraine in solidarity, listen to the Ukrainian concerns and hopes for the future, and to provide concrete Danish support for the important efforts to deescalate the situation in Eastern Ukraine. Europe is not safe, until Ukraine is safe.”
Minister Kofod’s visit comes after a week of meetings, including in the NATO-Russia Council and the OSCE, where possible diplomatic tracks that could deescalate the situation have been explored. Denmark is open for a constructive dialogue with Russia. At the same time, Denmark has made it clear that the military pressure on Ukraine is completely unacceptable, and that it does not want to compromise on the fundamental principles of the European security order.
New Danish support for demining efforts in eastern Ukraine
Minister Kofod’s trip included a visit to the Danish Refugee Council, which is carrying out a number of demining projects in eastern Ukraine. Here, the minister announced that the Danish government has decided on a new contribution of DKK 4 million to stabilization efforts, including demining at the Ukrainian contact line.
“Many years of conflict in eastern Ukraine have left a large number of unexploded mines. This causes major problems for the locals. Both because it is life threatening to move around in several places, but also economically because the mines are dug into agricultural land. Therefore, demining efforts are of critical importance, and I am glad we can help the Ukrainians get rid of these hidden death traps in the ground”, says Foreign Minister Jeppe Kofod.
Among other things, the Danish funds will go to education activities of local citizens so they can clear the mines in a responsible manner. The support will be administered by the Danish Refugee Council.
