Ukraine has no plans to break off economic relations with Russia

The Ukrainian government will not stop economic cooperation with Russia, because this would damage the economy of both countries, First Deputy Prime Minister Vitaly Yarema, appointed by the Verkhovna Rada, says today.

"Many Ukrainian companies manufacture products, also for Russia. And if we stop economic cooperation, both Russia and Ukraine will suffer losses," Yarema is quoted by ITAR-TASS.

He also expresses hope that future relations between Ukraine and Russia "will be friendly and fraternal, as before."