You're reading: Nalyvaichenko speaks about Ukrainian priorities amid truce

Chief of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) Valentyn Nalyvaichenko has said that the declared ceasefire in eastern Ukraine is time for the release of hostages, the resumption of border security and the gradual restoration of infrastructure.

In an interview with the 112 Ukraine television channel on Sept. 29, when asked how the Ukrainian side is making use of the ceasefire, he said: ‘In its own national interests. First, [we should] return all those who were illegally detained, second – resume security on the border and in those areas where illegal armed groups are still committing acts of violence, and third – stop the looting when property, plants and mines are taken away. ‘

However, he said: ‘This is a priority of priorities – to switch to the resumption of stability, financing of social benefits, and bring back a normal life, which was destroyed, including by Russian military forces.’