“Dear Russian brothers and sisters living in Ukraine! I am addressing you at a difficult time for our republic.

The main prerequisite for overcoming the crisis in which we find ourselves is the unity of action of all social and national groups, all patriotic political forces.

Only together can we get out of the quagmire that has sucked us in and create a society based on the principles of humanism, democracy and social justice. Ukraine has firmly taken the path of independence.

On its land, along with the Ukrainian and other peoples, twelve million Russians are the rightful masters. I will do everything in my power to fully satisfy the political, economic, social and spiritual needs of the Russian population, for the state protection of their legitimate interests.

Under no circumstances will the forced Ukrainization of Russians be allowed. Any attempts at discrimination based on nationality will be resolutely suppressed.

I guarantee you the preservation of full-blooded, unhindered ties with Russia and other sovereign states of the former Union, the opportunity to maintain free contacts with relatives and friends outside of Ukraine.

I imagine the new Ukraine in the family of civilized peoples as a single democratic state, recognized by the international community, with inviolable and at the same time open borders.

I count on the Russians’ full understanding and their support in ensuring the territorial integrity of the republic.

I urge you to jointly repel provocateurs who are trying to sow discord between Ukrainians and Russians, speculating on the problem of territorial claims to sovereign Ukraine.

Dear fellow citizens! Ukrainians and Russians have lived in Ukraine in peace and friendship for centuries. They are united by jointly shed blood, common grief and common joys. Let us be worthy of our wise ancestors.

Let's build an independent Ukraine as a common home of Ukrainians and Russians, of all nationalities inhabiting it! Sincerely, candidate for President of Ukraine L. Kravchuk.”

“We don’t force people into war with sticks, as they do in Russia.”