The existence of a functioning parliament is a crucial factor that legitimizes the current government of Ukraine. Therefore, for Russians, the absence of the Rada holds significant importance, which is why they may strike the building of the Verkhovna Rada during a session. Reports TSN. This was reported by Kontrakty.UA.
This was stated by Oleg Dunda, a member of parliament from the "Servant of the People" party, as conveyed by "Apostrophe".
"The presence of an active parliament is something that legitimizes the modern government of Ukraine as a whole. Without the parliament, there will be a tremendous gap in our relations with our Western partners, and it raises the question of the existence of power in general," the MP explained.
Dunda acknowledged that Ukrainians have varying attitudes towards the Verkhovna Rada; nonetheless, the parliament is essential for the state's existence.
"But this is the only state body, besides the president, that can appoint the Cabinet of Ministers, change legislation, as it cannot be done through decrees, and therefore the absence of the Rada is of great significance," he emphasized.
What will happen to the parliament if some MPs perish
Dunda also explained what would occur in the hypothetical event of a Russian strike on the Rada, after which some MPs might perish, and whether a new parliament could be formed without elections.
"The problem is not in the lists; they can be reinstated, and the list MPs can be brought back. The issue lies with the majoritarian MPs. They make up half. The quorum for the Verkhovna Rada is 300 people. Currently, we have 100 majoritarian MPs working; if they all perish, the question of the parliament's legitimacy arises," the politician noted.
Recall that on the morning of November 21, the aggressor army of the Russian Federation struck Dnipro. The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, confirmed that on the morning of November 21, Russia launched a new intercontinental ballistic strike. Thus, Ukraine became the first country to be hit by an intercontinental ballistic missile.
Several media outlets reported the potential escalation of the security situation in the capital and a new missile strike by Russia.
Against this backdrop, the Verkhovna Rada canceled the session scheduled for November 22. Several members of parliament admitted they were warned about a possible threat of a Russian strike on the government quarter.
"The number of people in the Cabinet, the Office of the President, and other state bodies in that area has been minimized. Enhanced security measures apply not only to the Rada but also to everyone who works and lives there," reported MP Mykyta Poturaiev.
Due to this decision by the MPs, ordinary residents of central Kyiv expressed their outrage, as no one had informed them about the danger or evacuation plans.
In contrast, the Office of the President assured that they operated on Friday, November 22, as usual, adhering to standard safety protocols.