Poroshenko: Constant military threat in Ukraine ‘for the foreseeable future’

World Today

In a display of military power to send a message of defiance to Russia, Ukraine celebrated 23 years of independence from the former Soviet Union with a military parade Sunday.

Some of the soldiers in the parade were headed east, where government forces are fighting pro-Russian separatists.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said in a speech that a constant military threat will hang over Ukraine for the foreseeable future, and that the country must be prepared to defend its independence.

To rival Kiev’s parade, the rebels in Donetsk marched their prisoners of war, who are Ukrainian government soldiers, through the streets of the city.

CCTV America’s Kate Parkinson reports.

Follow Kate Parkinson on Twitter @katecctvnews

MORE UKRAINE COVERAGE ON CCTV AMERICA.

Ukraine’s defense ministry called the event in Donetsk “disgusting.” This happened as Russia continued to claim it was helping people in eastern Ukraine via an aid convoy sent across the border unilaterally on Friday.

Russia sent the convoy in with no agreement from Ukraine or the Red Cross. This brought fears that the trucks were carrying weapons for pro-Russian militants, though Russia denied it.

Germany has urged both sides to work toward a cease-fire, and warned Russia that if it keeps interfering in Ukraine it could face further sanctions.

Negotiations will take place Tuesday between Poroshenko and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Minsk, Belarus.

CCTV America’s Tom Barton reports.

Follow Tom Barton on Twitter @TomBartonJourno

For more insight on the Ukraine crisis, Ivan Eland joined CCTV America. He is the director at the Independent Institute’s Center of Peace and Liberty.