Ukraine: Prime minister separatist of Donetsk People’s Republic calls for ceasefire in east Ukraine
Alexander Zakharchenko, prime minister of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic, on Saturday called for a ceasefire with the Kiev government in a move to prevent a possible ‘humanitarian catastrophe.’
“We are ready to have a ceasefire to avoid a humanitarian catastrophe, but will not surrender under any circumstances,” said Zakharchenko in a written statement.
Zakharchenko, who took office from the former Prime Minister Alexander Borodai last week, also dismissed allegations that Ukrainian troops besieged eastern Donetsk region, and insisted that pro-Russian separatists still held control and would claim a victory.
He warned the Kiev government of an impending catastrophe in Donetsk due to the shortage of food, medical supplies as well as electricity shortages which he said could increase civilian losses.