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Damascus is ready to break off diplomatic relations with Kyiv. This step became a response to the similar decision by the Ukrainian authorities, Rossiyskaya Gazeta reports.
Kyiv announced the termination of diplomatic relations with Syria at the end of June. The reason was the intention of Syria to recognize the independence of the republics of Donbass. The Ukrainian authorities also started to develop sanctions for a number of Syrian citizens and companies, as well as a a trade embargo.
Kyiv clarified that the country planned to maintain consular ties with Syria.
Earlier, the head of Syria, Bashar al-Assad, ordered the launch of the procedure for recognizing the independence of the DPR and LPR. LPR Ambassador to Russia Rodion Miroshnik specified that the recognition of the republics by Syria has not yet been formalized. ''This is all stipulated in the Treaty on Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance. And it hasn't been signed yet. This is only an expression of Syria's desire. That in itself is beautiful,'' he said.
Russkiy Mir
