Ukrainian politologists: Yanukovich and Medvedev solve “Belarusian issue”

The presidents of Russia and Ukraine had talks behind closed doors in Gelendzhik.

The first Ukrainian-Russian economic forum was held yeaterday in Russian resort Gelendzhik. The presidents of Ukraine and Russia had another opportunity to meet. Viktor Yanukovich and Dmitry Medvedev had a private conversation behind closed doors and then appeared before the media. “We have set a task to simplify procedures of crossing the Ukrainian-Belarusian border for our citizens and goods in near-border regions,” Yanukovich voiced the main message of the meeting. Experts comment on the results of the talks in an interview to UNIAN information agency:

“I think Medvedev explored Yanukovich’s reaction to current Belarusian-Russian relations during their meeting without the press. Liquidation of Lukashenka is a matter of effectiveness of Medvedev as president of Russia. It is important for Russia. That Ukraine should demonstrate its rhetoric solidarity or at least remain neutral and not act against interests of Russia as it was with a decision of the Ukrainian government on transiting Chavez’s oil to Belarus through Ukraine, “ politologist Vadim Karasyov thinks.

“It is Medvedev who gains more advantage of the demonstration of Ukraine- Russia warm relations. The “fraternal republics” of Belarus and Russia have faced a very serious conflict. It is highly important for Medvedev to show Yanukovich’s solidarity,” politologist Viktor Nebozhenko said.