Answer by the Russian Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov, to the question from the newspaper “Argumenti i fakti”, published on 16 April 2014

Question: Why is Russia so insistent on Ukraine's federalisation , what does it want, what is the essence of this idea?

Sergey Lavrov: The large-scale internal political crisis, which has struck Ukraine significantly, demonstrates deep disagreement between the South-East and the West of the country regarding their further development. This is evidence of instability in the model for state order, which was selected by Kiev earlier.

In fact, the unitary state no longer functions in Ukraine. Its foundations were loosened by a wave of political cataclysms, which have been rocking the country for many years. One of the main reasons for such a situation is lack of a balanced fundamental law in Ukraine, which would adequately consider the interests of all national and language groups, enforced rights and interests of all Ukrainian nationals.

This is not a normal situation, when after each presidential election the Constitution of the country is changed to suit the political wishes of those in power at the time. Therefore, federalisation is the way to make each region feel comfortable, that its rights are enforced and traditions and usual lifestyle are protected.

Of course, nobody can impose on Ukraine a scheme for the organisation of its state order. However, Ukrainians should start a dialogue, and ensure it is all-embracing and comprehensive in nature. This means that each and every region, including the political forces of Ukraine must participate in the dialogue on an equal basis to have equal rights in the resolution of the vital question.

This must be reflected in the reformed Constitution, which would be perceived by the poly-ethnic Ukrainian community as a secure foundation for a state with rule-of-law and with long-term prospects. I am convinced that without this it will be hard for Ukraine to remain united and decide on the pressing tasks to get out of the current severe crisis.