KIEV , Dec. 6 – The Delegation of the European Union to Ukraine says it shares Ukrainians' desire to protect forests and is ready to support them in that direction, but notes that a ban on timber exports will not prevent illegal logging.

"The EU Delegation wishes to reassure Ukrainians that we share your desire to protect Ukraine 's natural environment. In general, EU policies and EU integration do not lead to deforestation but help to prevent it. If Ukraine decided it wanted to protect more of its forests - including more of the unique biosphere in the Carpathians - the EU would be supportive," the EU Delegation said in a statement on Monday evening.