Ukraine concerned about Belarusian opposition leaders' arrest

As it became known, Belarusian authorities arrested Vintsuk Vyachorka and Anatoly Lebedko. They are the chiefs of the election HQ of Aleksandr Milinkevich , the candidate of the united democratic forces running for the presidency.

“Respect for the democratic standards, the right on political activity, election campaign and the freedom of the word – all that is the basis for close relationship of Ukraine with neighbours. The arrest of the opposition leaders on the eve of the elections cannot be regarded just as the violation of the democratic values,” reads the statement.

According to Filipchuk, Foreign Ministry spokesman, Ukraine stands for cessation of international isolation of Belarusian Republic and backs its Euro-integration. Ukraine is worry about another violation of the democratic standards and urges Belarusian authorities to meet their obligations as OSCE member and to respect the political liberties of Belarusian citizens.