Russian President Vladimir Putin has added Zakhar Prylepin, Russian writer and Donbas fighter to the so-called working group for the constitutional amendments he announced on January 15. Mr. Prylepin’s inclusion is a grave affront to all Ukrainians, however, the changes Mr. Putin is planning are likely to have even more serious ramifications for Ukraine.
While well-known Ukrainian journalist Vitaly Portnikov is doubtless correct in saying that Mr. Putin’s plans are akin to a declaration of war against Ukraine, they are also an assault on international law and, therefore, a challenge to the European structures and leaders who are increasingly seeking “dialogue” with Russia.