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[CYPRUS TIMES] Moscow's signals "confused", says Boris Johnson

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UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson accused Russia of sending mixed signals as to its intentions after the announcement of the withdrawal of troops from the border with Ukraine

Mr. Johnson said Russia was setting up campaign hospitals and that more regular combat troops were being moved closer to the Ukrainian border, moves "that can only be interpreted as preparation for an invasion."

"So these are confusing signals that we are seeing at the moment and (are) all the more reason for us to remain very tough and united, particularly on economic sanctions," the British prime minister said.

He added, however, that since last night and today "clearly there are signs of a diplomatic opening."

Beyond that, however, he stressed that the West needs to see a "de-escalation program," meaning a withdrawal of combat teams, a halt to the construction of campaign hospitals and "a sense that things are de-escalating, a sense that the threat is over and that discussion and negotiation is beginning."

Johnson, who chaired a COBRA committee meeting this morning to coordinate the British response to the Russian threat, added that "we have seen an avenue for diplomacy and we have seen some positive signs from discussions," referring to contacts between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and other officials with American and other counterparts. "If that's right, let's build on that," Johnson added."

Source: CNA


Contents of this article including associated images are belongs Cyprus Times
Views & opinions expressed are those of the author and/or Cyprus Times

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