Poroshenko: Russia gathers its army at our borders – We will defend our country

Ukraine will be ready to defend its territorial integrity, said Petro Poroshenko, saying that he had proved that Russia was gathering troops on the border between the two countries.

The Ukrainian president imposed a military law after a "burning" episode in the Kerch Strait, during which the Russians opened fire on three Ukrainian navy ships they had captured, arresting 24 sailors.

"The Crimea is part of the Ukraine illegally annexed.There are no Russian territorial waters there, we can not break anything that does not exist. There is no excuse for firing on our ships – Russia is violating international law brutally, "Poroshenko told CNN.

When asked why he was implementing a military law – enacted on Wednesday – Poroshenko said Russia was gathering troops on the Ukrainian border.

"On the basis of our information, including from our NATO sources, Russia is collecting a large volume of troops across our borders, and we have proof of that, and we will be ready to deal with a situation. similar to 2014, "he said, referring to the annexation of Crimea.

"The military law enforcement is clear to defend our constitution, to help us move troops more easily, to mobilize all our resources to defend our territorial integrity and our sovereignty." Just to defend our country, "said the Ukrainian president.

Poroshenko said he is satisfied with the support expressed in Ukraine by US, NATO and European leaders. In particular, he thanked Angela Merkel for having conveyed to Vladimir Putin Kiev 's request for the immediate release of the 24 sailors captured by the Russians, the Russian President refusing, as he said, to remain in power. to maintain directly with him.

With regard to Moscow's accusations that everything is being done to prevent the presidential elections in Ukraine, Poroshenko said: "Putin is the only one interested in postponing the elections," said the European Parliament, who approved Mars.

Finally, Mr Poroshenko said on Wednesday that he would decide whether restrictions on Russia's entry into Ukraine will be imposed when the military law will be in force.