Former so-called "Foreign Minister" and so-called "First deputy speaker" of the "Parliament" of the "Donetsk People's Republic". Stood as a candidate in the so-called illegal "elections" of 2 Nov 2014 to the post of so-called "Head" of the "Donetsk People's Republic". These elections were in breach of Ukrainian law and therefore illegal.
In taking part and acting in this capacity, and in participating formally as a candidate in the illegal "elections", he has therefore actively supported actions and policies which undermine the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine, and further destabilised Ukraine. Remains active in supporting separatist actions or policies.