If Latvia ever came to the same situation Ukraine is now, with Russian speaking population asking for assistance, Russia would never involve itself, says Russian ambassador to Latvia Aleksandr Veshnyakov.
When asked to comment if Russia would involve itself if some group of Russian speakers asked for its help, Veshnyakov said: ‘Of course not. Such things are viewed separately.’
He also expressed certainty that Harmony Centre would never ask for Russia’s involvement, because there is no point in that. ‘Drawing parallel lines in this matter is completely out of place,’ – said Veshnyakov.
However, if Latvia decides to introduce strict sanctions against Russia, the one to lose the most in this case would be Latvia, not Russia, says the ambassador.
In regard to Ukraine, however, it seems that the situation in the country has deteriorated and now poses a threat to Russians living in Ukraine. According to the ambassador, this also happened in a time when there is no legitimate government in the country.
When asked if Russia is prepared to include Crimea in its territory if the referendum ends with residents of Crimea supporting this idea, Veshnyakov replied: ‘We will discuss such a possibility.’ According to the ambassador, residents should choose their fate on their own.
He said that Russia does not question Ukraine’s territorial unity: ‘We do not want war of any kind to break out in Ukraine. We want Ukraine to remain as one.’
The Russian ambassador added that it is absolutely clear at this point – Yanukovich is incapable of being in charge of Ukraine.
As it is known, Ukraine was engulfed in political crisis at the end of November 2013. Thousands of people went out to the streets in Kyiv, protesting against the government’s decision to halt integration into the European Union, instead forming closer relations with Russia. Protests soon escalated into open clashes with police forces. More than 100 people were killed during protests in February 2014. President Viktor Yanukovich left the country to seek asylum in Russia. Crimea is reported to be under control of the Russian military.
Source: Baltic News Network
http://bnn-news.com/veshnyakov-russia-interfere-russians-living-latvia-asked-110957