Nikki Haley
The U.S. and Russia could improve relations, but this will not happen if the restoration of ties will hurt European allies of Washington. This was stated by the U.S. permanent representative to the UN, Nikki Haley, her words RIA Novosti.
“The United States believes that Russia can have the best relationship. We are, after all, are opposed by many common threats. But closer cooperation with Moscow can not be achieved at the expense of the security of our friends and allies from Europe,” she said, speaking at a meeting of the Security Council of an international organization.
During his speech, Haley also urged Moscow to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and stressed that sanctions against Russia will not be lifted until the full implementation of the Minsk agreements. In her view, Russia’s decision on provisional recognition of documents issued on uncontrollable Kiev territories of Ukraine only harm the peace process.
On Saturday, February 18, Vladimir Putin has signed the decree about recognition of the Russian Federation, the documents issued in the Donbass. It concerns citizens of Ukraine and stateless persons permanently residing on the territories of separate districts of Donetsk and Lugansk regions. Valid in any country recognized including identity cards and birth certificates, documents on education, qualifications, conclusion and termination of marriage, evidence on registration of vehicles and registration plates issued in the territories of these areas.
The President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko accused Moscow of violating international law.