MOSCOW, August 12 (RIA Novosti) – The Russian humanitarian convoy will be allowed into Ukraine via a crossing on the border between Russia’s Belgorod Region and Ukraine’s Kharkiv Region, the deputy head of the presidential administration said Tuesday.
Ukrainian Presidential Administration Deputy Head Valeriy Chaliy said the cargo will be allowed through a “Ukraine-controlled crossing between the Belgorod and Kharkiv regions.”
Chaliy also confirmed the existence of problems with humanitarian deliveries to territory controlled by the local militia.
The convoy of 280 trucks is expected to arrive at the Ukrainian border on Wednesday, carrying 62 tons of baby food, 54 tons of medication and 12,000 sleeping bags, among other necessities.
Russia proposed sending humanitarian aid to Ukraine’s eastern regions under the auspice of the International Committee of the Red Cross last week. A number of Western countries, including the United States, Britain and Germany, called the initiative into question, saying the aid would be “unjustified and illegal” unless Russia secures Kiev’s consent.
The Russian Foreign Ministry has repeatedly stressed the need for urgent measures to prevent a humanitarian crisis in Ukraine and urged its Western partners not to disrupt the humanitarian efforts.
