Former Ukrainian president, Viktor Yanukovych, has urged head of state Volodymyr Zelensky to give up in the war against Russia.
“You personally are obliged to stop the bloodshed and reach a peace agreement at any cost,” the pro-Moscow politician wrote in a message circulated by Russian state agency Ria Novosti on Tuesday.
“This is what Ukraine, the Donbass and Russia expect from you,” he said, adding that Kiev’s partners in the West would also welcome such a move.
Yanukovych, who is considered extremely corrupt, was toppled by pro-Western demonstrators in 2014.
Since then, the 71-year-old had been living in exile in Russia.
In his home country, he was sentenced in absentia to 13 years in prison for treason.
Ukrainian media recently reported that the Kremlin wanted to reinstate Yanukovych as president.
Ukrainian President Zelensky vows to remain in Kiev
Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to remain in the Ukrainian capital Kiev inspite of the ongoing fighting there.
“I am staying in Kiev,” he said in a video message.
He said he would not hide and wasn’t afraid of anyone.
“Today is the 12th night of our struggle, our defence.
“We are all on site, everyone is working, everyone is where he has to.
“I’m in Kiev, my team is with me,” Zelensky added.
According to the presidential office, Zelensky has recalled Ukrainian soldiers serving on foreign missions.
“The highly professional military would be needed in the fight against Russian aggression,” the statement said.
According to Ukrainian media, the country is involved in operations in Kosovo, Congo and Ivory Coast.
Zelensky said talks with Russia would continue.
“We are realists, that’s why we’re going to talk.
“We will insist on negotiations until we find a way to say to our people, this is how we come to peace.
“Every day of fighting creates better conditions for Ukraine,” he said.