We could open the borders to let people go to Ukraine tomorrow as is, but this matter should be discussed with representatives of Kiev at least to know exactly through which checkpoints people will be able to cross the border, on what days and according to what schedule, DPR Plenipotentiary and Foreign Minister Natalya Nikonorova announced today, on June 19.

“Despite the urgency of the issue, Kiev has been systematically ignoring its discussion with us, instead engaging in provocative, unilateral actions uncoordinated with no one. Nevertheless, the issue of citizens’ passage becomes more and more acute every day.

In this regard, we officially warn the representatives of Ukraine: until Monday, June 22, we wait for a clear position from Kiev on all necessary measures to organize citizens’ passage through checkpoints, taking into account the rights of citizens and the risks to health. If they do not give such a position before this date, then we will be ready to take unilateral action for humanitarian reasons and in view of acute social need.

Namely, on Monday of June 22, we intend to organize daily passage at one of our checkpoints for all citizens wishing to leave for the territory of Ukraine. Starting Thursday, June 25, it is planned to let pass those who want to enter the territory of the republics back taking into account a number of conditions aimed at preventing the spread of the coronavirus, including arrangement of humanitarian corridors and categories.

We are ready to do everything in our power to help residents of Donbass to resume their normal, full way of life at home, with their relatives and friends,” Nikonorova stated.