EU signs pact with ex-USSR states, Russia warns of 'grave consequences'

June 27, 2014 14:44

Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova have signed partnership agreements with the European Union, in a move strongly opposed by Russia.

The pact - which would bind the three countries more closely to the West both economically and politically - is at the heart of the crisis in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said he saw the signing as the start of preparations for EU membership.

A ceasefire with pro-Russian rebels in the east is due to end on Friday.

Poroshenko hailed the signing as Ukraine's most historic day since independence in 1991, describing it as a "symbol of faith and unbreakable will".

Meanwhile European Council President Herman van Rompuy described it as a "great day for Europe". -- BBC

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