Federation Council sanctions use of Russian troops abroad

The Federation Council (the Upper House of the Russian Parliament, or the Senate) has given its consent to the President of Russia for the use of the country's armed forces outside its borders. The consent will allow protecting the interests of the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics DPR and LPR), the senators assert.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that on February 18, the self-proclaimed DPR and LPR announced an evacuation of their residents to Russia. On February 21, Vladimir Putin signed decrees recognizing the independence of the LPR and DPR. Prior to concluding agreements on friendship, cooperation and mutual assistance with the DPR and LPR, the Russian Ministry of Defence (MoD) was ordered to "ensure the implementation of peacemaking functions by the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation" in the territory of these republics.

The Federation Council has given its consent to the President of Russia on the use of the armed forces of the Russian Federation outside the country.

"The decision of the Federation Council is aimed at establishing peace, preventing the continuation of bloodshed, and shelling of citizens. This will help create normal conditions for people's lives and ensure their safety," the website of the Senate has quoted its Chair, Valentina Matvienko, as stating.

The adopted resolution is "quite a logical measure" for protecting the interests of the DPR and LPR, Senator Grigory Karasin believes.