This Is The Man Who Has United Ukraine's Rebels

Reuters: Ex-electrician backed by Putin helps unite Ukraine rebels

(Reuters) - Separatist leader Alexander Zakharchenko will not be present at a summit on east Ukraine this week but his actions will help determine the success or failure of any peace deal.

While Russian President Vladimir Putin is seen in the West as holding the key to peace, Zakharchenko is regarded vital for ensuring Moscow’s decisions are implemented.

The 38-year former mine electrician, who often carries a pistol and knife and usually wears combat fatigues, has been tightening his grip on power since being named prime minister of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DNR) last August.

A Donetsk native, he has succeeded where a succession of Russians parachuted in by Moscow failed - by bringing at least a semblance of unity and authority to the ragtag separatists.

WNU Editor: The above video is very revealing .... his bodyguard gets hit by a sniper but Zakharchenko doesn't even flinch .... he just keeps on talking to the reporter. As to what is my take on separatist leader Alexander Zakharchenko .... I know who and what these men are because they remind me of my Ukrainian - Russian father. They are hard-core, stubborn, thick headed, uncompromising, and very determined .... especially if they believe that they are right ... and their one big weakness (and it is also their strength) is that sometimes they do not know when to stop. That is why I know that these men do not care if this conflict lasts one week or ten years .... they are determined and they will probably get what they want in the end .... an autonomous Donetsk/Luhansk region within Ukraine .... or an independent country. And for those who think that life would be easier if he is killed today .... I say that there are many more like him just waiting to take his place to continue the fight .... all that his death would mean is that he is now a martyr .... which is something that he would probably fancy. As to Putin being able to control someone like him and his many followers .... no way .... impossible .... and that is something that the West (especially their political elites) just cannot .... and probably never will .... fully understand.