Russian President Vladimir Putin has added Zakhar Prylepin, Russian writer and Donbas fighter to the so-called ‘working group’ for the constitutional amendments he announced on Jan 15. Prylepin’s inclusion is a grave affront to all Ukrainians, however the changes Putin is planning are likely to have even more serious ramifications for Ukraine. While well-known Ukrainian journalist Vitaly Portnikov is doubtless correct in saying that Putin’s plans are akin to a declaration of war against Ukraine, they are also an assault on international law and, therefore, a challenge to the European structures and leaders who are increasingly seeking so-called ‘dialogue’ with Russia.
Russia's War Against Ukraine
OP-ED
Halya Coynash: Putin has declared war, but not just against Ukraine
An armed pro-Russian separatist stands guard in the village of Spartak near the airport of Donetsk, eastern Ukraine, on April 10, 2015.
