DUBLIN (Reuters), Ryanair could build up to 20 Ukrainian-based aircrafts over the coming years if Russia does no invade, and if they can find attractive airport deals there, Michael O’Leary Group chief executive said Monday.

Ryanair stated repeatedly that Ukraine is a market it sees as potential for growth. O’Leary claimed that, while Ryanair was keeping an eye on tensions with Russia, they had not modified their plans to increase capacity.

“We are committed to Ukraine. “As long as Ukraine continues to look westward there is a huge… flow of people working in central or eastern Europe travelling to and from Ukraine,” he stated.

According to him, “If Russia doesn’t invade the country it is one of our countries where we would expect it to open a few bases.. within the next two to three years subjected to cost agreements.”

Ryanair’s newly formed routes team visited Ukraine for the third time or fourth time in January. He said that Ukrainian authorities weren’t in a position “to discuss new routes and bases” because they had been distracted by other matters.

“We wish the Ukrainian situation gets resolved diplomatically. He said that if the situation in Ukraine is resolved diplomatically, then it will be a great opportunity for growth.

O’Leary stated that Ryanair may deploy up to 15 aircraft at five different airports if the offers prove satisfactory.

Ryanair doesn’t care where its planes are based, as long as they get the lowest prices.

“Our growth will always remain opportunistic. This is not a Napoleonic invasion in Russia. “Whoever offers the best deal will be the first to get four or five more aircraft.”