You're reading: Donetsk mayor moves to Kyiv after being threatened by separatists

Donetsk Mayor Oleksandr Lukianchenko has said he received an ultimatum and threats from members of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic, who demanded he should provide for their military needs, even at the expense of city residents.

“Three days ago, I, as mayor, was issued an ultimatum: they demanded I should not provide for the citizens’ welfare, but for the military needs of the DPR, including to the detriment of city residents. All this time I was trying to establish a dialogue for a peaceful resolution of the conflict, but I was openly told that the DPR was not interested in peace initiatives,” the Donetsk mayor said in a video address released on July 14.

He said that he still supported peace talks, as he realized that “a war means destruction for a city with a million population.”

“Unfortunately, my position does not allow me to stay in Donetsk, as I was clearly told that in this case they may kill me. I am currently in Kyiv, where I intend to defend the interests of my native city until the situation changes,” Lukianchenko said.

He added that he would return to Donetsk as soon as possible.

“I hope that during my absence, the DPR armed forces will allow the municipal services of the city to support its functioning. I have been and will be in constant communication with all city departments,” the Donetsk mayor said.