Mingarelli: Russian aggression and ineffective governance are main threats to Ukraine's security
During a round table discussion entitled "Threats to the Security of Ukraine and Other Countries of the Eastern Partnership Region: Possible Responses" in Kyiv, the Head of the EU delegation to Ukraine, Hugues Mingarelli, has named two main sources of threats to Ukraine's security: external and internal, Interfax-Ukraine reports.
"In the EU, we see two sources of threats to the security of Ukraine and its neighbors. First, obviously, is the conflict with Russia. The second is a combination of ineffective governance, weak institutions and the lack of rule of law, which make Ukraine and other countries of the region more vulnerable to internal and external threats," Mingarelli said.
He also noted that the military conflict in the Donbas has already led to the death of more than 10,000 people and has forced the displacement of 1.6 million people: more than 1 million refugees in neighboring countries.
In addition, the Ambassador pointed to the economic challenges that Ukraine faces. "It is perfectly clear that the Ukrainian economy has weakened with the occupation of parts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions especially in industrial production," the diplomat added. Mingarelli also noted the role of the economic blockade of the terrorist-held territories in the difficult economic situation in Ukraine.
At the same time, the Head of the EU delegation stressed the importance of carrying out reforms in Ukraine. "The Association Agreement will include Ukraine's economy in the EU single market. It is also a way to strengthen Ukraine's resistance to any kind of internal and external challenges," the Ambassador summed up.
Earlier Mingarelli reportedly pointed out weaknesses and strengths in Ukraine's implementation of the Association Agreement with the European Union.