Brussels (The Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The European Union has released a statement on Russian regional elections and their non-applicability to Ukrainian territories.
Peter Stano lead spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of the European Union has stated that Russia performed partial regional and local elections, including in the illegally annexed Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol. From September 6-8, Russia’s de facto authorities in the occupied region are carrying voting for the Russian-imposed Crimean parliament, the municipal legislature of the port city of Sevastopol, and deputies of local councils. Russia has occupied the region since 2014.
How Does the EU Reject Russia’s Elections in Occupied Crimea?
The European Union strongly criticizes the holding of these so-called “elections” by Russia on Ukrainian territory. They comprise another act of violation of international law, the UN Charter, and Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. Further, the statement states that the Europen Union does not admit these so-called “elections” or their results in Crimea. They are null and void, and cannot deliver any legal effects whatsoever. Russia’s leadership and those accountable for organizing these illegal actions will be held accountable and face consequences.
More than a decade after Russia’s invasion and endeavored illegal annexation of Crimea, the EU reiterates its position: Crimea is Ukraine. Referring to the UN General Assembly Resolution of 27 March 2014, we call on Russia to stop its efforts to undermine Ukraine’s national unity and territorial integrity. Moreover, the statement stresses there is one clear way out of this war: Russia immediately ends its illegal, unprovoked, and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine, and removes all forces and military equipment from Ukraine’s territory within its internationally recognized borders.
What Is the Ukrainian Government’s Reaction to Russia’s Elections in Crimea?
Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry has also denounced Russia’s elections in the occupied Ukrainian region of Crimea, stating that the procedure is a breach of international law. “We underline once again that the results of the so-called ‘elections’ in the temporarily occupied territory of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea…are useless, and the ‘elections’ themselves are illegitimate,” the ministry noted. The ministry said that those involved in “the preparation and holding of the so-called ‘elections’” will be charged.
