European Union remains committed to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity

18.03.2019 09:45

Ukrinform

The European Union remains committed to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity five years on from the illegal annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol by the Russian Federation.

“Five years on from the illegal annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol by the Russian Federation, the European Union remains steadfast in its commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity,” reads the declaration by the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini on behalf of the EU.

The European Union reiterates that it does not recognise and continues to condemn the violation of international law by Russia. The annexation of Crimea “remains a direct challenge to international security,” Mogherini stressed.

It is noted that the EU calls again on the UN Member States to consider Crimea annexation non-recognition measures in line with the UN General Assembly Resolution 68/262.

«Russia's violations of international law have led to a dangerous increase in tensions at the Kerch Strait and the Sea of Azov. The unjustified use of force by Russia against Ukraine on 25 November 2018 is a reminder of the negative effects of the illegal annexation of the Crimean peninsula on regional stability,” the High Representative of the Union underscored.

The EU reiterated its call on Russia to release the illegally captured Ukrainian crewmembers, vessels and equipment unconditionally and without further delay. “Pending their release, Russia should respect their rights to legal representation and access by consular authorities, and to provide the injured crewmen with appropriate medical treatment,” reads the declaration.

In addition, the European Union condemns the construction of the Kerch Bridge without Ukraine's consent and expects Russia to ensure unhindered and free passage of all ships through the Kerch Strait to and from the Azov Sea, in accordance with international law.

The High Representative of the Union reminds that the EU does not and will not recognise the holding of elections by the Russian Federation in the Crimean peninsula.

The EU also reiterates its call for the immediate release of Oleh Sentsov, Edem Bekirov, Oleksandr Kolchenko, Mykola Semena, Volodymyr Balukh, Emir-Usein Kuku and all those who have been detained in the Crimean peninsula and sentenced in breach of international law.