Zelensky threatens to abandon negotiations in case of trial of Azov fighters in Mariupol
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned late on Sunday that any peace talks with Russia would be impossible if a trial was held soon to try members of the Ukrainian Azov regiment who had defended the southeastern city of Mariupol of Ukraine, against the Russian army.
“The stage is set for an absolutely disgusting and absurd show trial of Ukrainian defenders, our warriors who are being held captive by the occupiers”says Mr. Zelensky in her daily video.
Of the images broadcast by Russian televisionand put online by the New York Times, suggest that the trial of these fighters from Azov – a group considered terrorist by Moscow – could take place very soon in the philharmonic hall of Mariupol, a city now held by the Russian army after the surrender of Ukrainian soldiers in the month of may. The videos show a redevelopment of the theater, including grids and cages.
“If this despicable show trial takes place, if our people are brought into this setting in violation of all agreements, all international rules, if there is abuse… This will be the line beyond which any negotiation will be impossible”warns the Ukrainian president.
“Russia will cut itself off from negotiations. There will be no more conversation”he recalls, adding that he warned Emmanuel Macron today of his intentions, as well as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
“They understand that Ukraine will not tolerate this. She will not tolerate tormenting people of whom one can only say one thing: they are heroes of their homeland, they defended the freedom of their people against the invaders on their land.says Mr. Zelensky.