Nikolay Azarov has resigned from the post of Ukrainian Prime Minister, the Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers said today.

"The conflict situation in the country is threatening Ukraine's economic and social development," he said. "This poses a threat to Ukrainian society and every citizen. The government did everything to peacefully resolve the conflict. We have done and are doing everything to prevent bloodshed, the escalation of violence and civil rights violation. The government has ensured the functioning of the economy and social security system under extreme conditions."

"I made a decision to ask the Ukrainian President to accept my resignation from the post of Prime Minister to create the additional opportunities for the socio- political compromise and for the sake of a peaceful settlement of the conflict," Azarov added.

Azarov thanked all Ukrainian citizens who supported the government and himself.

"Today, the most important thing is to preserve the unity and integrity of Ukraine," he added. "This is much more important than someone's personal plans or ambitions. That is why I made this decision."

/Trend/