Crisis in Ukraine: Daily Briefing
14 July 2015, 7 PM Kyiv time
1. Russian Invasion of Ukraine
The National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine (RNBO) stated at 12:30 PMKyiv time that the violations of the ceasefire by Russian-terrorist forces has increased. Towards Donetsk, Russian-terrorist forces shelled Ukrainian positions along the perimeter of Horlivka. From Novohorodske to Verkhnotoretske, Russian-terrorist forces shelled Ukrianian positions with mortars, tanks and artillery. East of Donetsk, firefights are taking place from Adviyivka to Maryinka, and the use of artillery of Russian-terrorist forces has increased. Towards Luhansk Russian-terrorist forces shelled Ukrainian positions at Krymske, and firefights took place there throughout the day. Firefights with Russian-terrorist forces also took place at Shchastya and Popasne. The RNBO reported that in the last 24 hours, no Ukrainian soldiers were killed and five were wounded.
2. Ukraine and Canada sign Free Trade Deal
Ukraine and Canada signed the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA). Ukrainian PM A. Yatsenyuk and Canada’s PM S Harper were present at the signing. Yatsenyuk stated, “This opens a new page in bilateral relations between Ukraine and Canada. This should deepen Ukraine-Canada co-operation and increase two-way investment. This is another step in the blossoming of our nations.” More information on the CUFTA can be found at https://www.ucccetrust.ca/2015/07/14/
3. Ukraine’s PM meets with US President, Vice-President
Ukraine’s PM A. Yatsenyuk met with US President B. Obama and Vice-President J. Biden on 13 July in Washington. The White House stated, “President Obama and Vice President Biden both expressed unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and underscored the U.S. commitment to maintaining sanctions on Russia until it fully implements its obligations under the Minsk agreements. […]The President and Vice President also welcomed the Government of Ukraine’s ambitious economic reform agenda, which was discussed extensively today at the U.S.-Ukraine Business Forum in Washington, as well as the government’s strong stand against populist measures that could undermine Ukraine’s financial stability. The leaders agreed on the importance of Ukraine passing additional reform measures, including in the energy sector, to fulfil its commitments to the IMF and other international financial institutions.”
