§ Lord Kennetasked Her Majesty's Government:
What assistance do they intend to offer to Russia in its peacekeeping and conflict-resolution activities within the territory of the former Soviet Union, and in particular how they think this assistance can best be brought to bear on current problems between Russia and Ukraine, particularly in the light of the latter's continuing expenses and difficulties over Chernobyl.
§ Baroness Chalker of WallaseyWe have had discussions with Russia about the general question of peacekeeping in the former Soviet Union, stressing the need to adhere to internationally agreed principles applying to peacekeeping operations. The UK is not directly providing bilateral assistance for Russian peacekeeping operations, but will continue to support CSCE and UN efforts to help achieve peace settlements in the region.
As far as differences between Russia and Ukraine are concerned, the UK will continue to work with both sides to help achieve a peaceful settlement through negotiation. There is no question of a peacekeeping operation here.
On Chernobyl, we regard Ukraine as a priority beneficiary under the various nuclear safety assistance programmes to which we contribute.