Ukraine: EU will not recognise results of so-called “referenda” in occupied territories

The European Union has strongly condemned the illegal “referenda” planned by so-called “authorities”, appointed illegitimately by Russia in the territories of Ukraine it militarily occupied.

According to a statement by EU High Representative Josep Borrell, released on 20 September, these “referenda” go against the legal and democratically elected Ukrainian authorities and violate Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. 

He added that the results would not be recognised by the EU and its Member States.

“These illegal ‘votes’ cannot be considered under any circumstance as the free expression of the will of the people living in these regions under constant Russian military threat and intimidation,” said Borrell. “Russia, its political leadership, and all those involved in these ‘referenda’ and other violations of international law in Ukraine will be held accountable, and additional restrictive measures against Russia would be considered.”

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Press release