As Ukraine and Ukrainians around the world seek moments of peace and reflection during their eastern-rite Easter celebrations this weekend, concern is growing Russia is planning to mount a false-flag incident in Ukraine using chemical, biological or nuclear weapons of mass destruction (WMD).
The Russian Ambassador in Canada has released a statement proposing that western security services, under the guidance of the US, are planning on causing “acts of sabotage” at Ukrainian facilities in Kyiv and Kharkiv handling WMD-components, the Zaporizhia nuclear power plant, at a radioactive waste storage facility in Kamyanske, Dnipropetrovsk region, at Azovstal in Mariupol, or using WMD in the towns of Slavyansk and Kramatorsk.
“This is a classic case of Russian disinformation and lies. We are extremely concerned the Russian Federation is trying to justify their next steps in the heinous invasion of Ukraine – the use of chemical, biological or nuclear weapons,” said Mr Stefan Romaniw, Co-Chair of the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO).
“We call upon the Australian Government and the international community to remain vigilant. The Russian Federation has consistently lied and flouted international rules and codes of behaviour. It is important that the international community act in unison to reject these lies and remain steadfast in its support of Ukraine,” said Mr Romaniw.
“As requested by President Zelenskyy, Ukraine needs the strong support of the international community. Ukraine needs weapons to protect itself from Russia’s brutal invasion. Ukraine needs the increased pressure of sanctions on Russia, because only sanctions can force Russia to seek peace and deprive the Russian military machine of resources,” said Mr Romaniw.
Full copy of the statement by the Russian Ambassador to Canada is attached.
Media Inquiries: Mr Stefan Romaniw, 0419 531 255
