Belarus’ Foreign Ministry summoned Ukrainian Ambassador over flag incident in Dnepr

As reported by the Belarusian Foreign Ministry’s press service, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to Belarus, Igor Kizim, was summoned to the Foreign Ministry yesterday. A strong protest was voiced in connection with an incident in Ukrainian Dnepr where – following the city mayor’s decision – Belarus’ national flag had been replaced with other symbols.

The Ukrainian side was informed that Belarus views this cynical manifestation of an unfriendly attitude towards a sovereign nation as an act of state vandalism that is grossly violating the fundamental principles of international law – of sovereign equality of states and of non-interference in the states’ internal affairs, and also the norms of international relations exercised in the civilised world, diplomatic and protocol practice.

The Ambassador was notified that – in case Ukraine fails to fulfil the requirements voiced at the meeting – Belarus reserves the right to take further proportionate steps.