"In reality, the idea that local militants in Donbas can act without Russia's assistance was invented in the Kremlin. There were few military units of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in Donbas before the recent events. That is why allegations that militants seized a large amount of armour, artillery and munitions are rubbish. If we are to believe that representatives of some 'third force' in Donbas actively fire cannons, Grad multiple-launch rocket systems, tanks and mortars, then it is not clear where they got these weapons from. Second, where do these 'independent' militants get munitions and fuel in unlimited quantities?" Tymchuk said.
In his opinion, Russia actively supports the "third force" aiming to continue escalating the situation in Donbas.
"It is a secret 'project within a project'. Moscow continues to deny any relation to the LNR and DNR, but that is not a secret for anybody any more. Putin realizes that in the eyes of the international community he is responsible for these terrorist organizations. That is why 'officially' they cannot ignore the Minsk agreements [on ceasefire signed on 5 September and memorandum on ceasefire implementation on 20 September]. That is why the Kremlin decided to create supposedly 'independent' terrorist groups to continue the hostilities. Such long-range planning is perfectly within the spirit of Putin," Tymchuk said.
In Ukraine, incessant fears of a Russian advance on Mariupol
The conflict in the Donbas has escalated yet again. The city of Avdiivka fell under heavy fire, resulting…
