The policy of sanctions against citizens and legal entities of Russia, recognized an agressor country against Ukraine, should be prolonged and intensified, since the aggressor must bear full responsibility and pay a high price for his actions. Prime Minister of Ukraine Volodymyr Groysman said during a meeting of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine (NSDC) on retaliatory sanctions and Ukraine's suspending participation in coordination councils the Commonwealth of Independent States.

"We have a thorough understanding of the fact that an aggressor country should be responsible and pay a high price for what they have done on the territory of our country. The Government considered the decisions to extend sanctions, provided its proposals to the NSDC. Everyone who bears upon any crimes sustained by Russia must be severely punished," said Volodymyr Groysman.

He also commented on the gradual withdrawal of Ukraine from the CIS councils and the termination of treaties adopted within the framework of the Commonwealth of Independent States. "We constantly make inventory of such contracts. No cooperation is possible with aggressor. Hence, the decision (about the suspending participation) is relevant. We have every opportunity to build bilateral relations with partners avoiding artificial associations like the CIS".

The Head of Government also touched upon the topic of elections to the consolidated communities that took place on April 29. The results of the will expression were among the topics for discussion at the NSDC meeting.

"Experts estimate that these elections have become one of the most sleezy after the Revolution of Dignity. And how long can it last? One Maidan has risen through falsification, the second - because of disrespect for people, and now they are buying votes for a pack of food again. Was that what we intoduced decentralization for?" urged the Prime Minister. "It is vital to encourage people to elect authorities. We should take tough measures against those who win through lies."

The Head of Government stressed that law enforcement agencies are already investigating. "I want to remind: we have approved a bill on liability (for illegal actions during the elections). And when we make it a law, the situation will improve. If you buy votes, you will sit in jail", added Volodymyr Groysman.