Joseph Burrell Pontles, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, issued a statement recently (Thursday) amid the Russian Federation’s armed forces’ invasion of Ukraine.
The statement said that “the European Union strongly condemns the unprovoked invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation’s armed forces. We also condemn Belarus’ involvement in this aggression against Ukraine and call on it to meet its international obligations. “
The statement added: “We demand that President Putin immediately stop Russian military operations and unconditionally withdraw all forces and military equipment from all of Ukraine’s territory. Russia bears full responsibility for this act of aggression and for all the destruction and loss of life it will cause. She will be held accountable for her actions.
“Russia’s military offensive against Ukraine – an independent and sovereign state – is a blatant violation of international law and of the core principles on which the rules of international order are based.”
It added that “the EU, together with transatlantic partners and like-minded people, have been united in making unprecedented efforts to achieve a diplomatic solution to the security crisis caused by Russia. Russia did not respond to these efforts and instead unilaterally opted for a severe and pre-planned escalation. The EU has made it clear from the outset and at the highest political level that any further military aggression against Ukraine will have massive consequences and severe costs. The EU response will therefore include restrictive sectoral and individual measures that are fully coordinated with our transatlantic partners. ”
“Let Russia have no doubt,” the High Representative stressed in a statement that “the EU will remain united with determination when it takes the next steps in close coordination with its partners.” The EU calls on the international community to demand from Russia the immediate end of this aggression, which endangers international peace and security on a global scale. We call on Russia to fully respect international humanitarian law, and to provide safe and uninterrupted humanitarian access and assistance to all people in need. We also call on Russia to ensure the safety of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission. “
“The EU reiterates its unwavering support and commitment to Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. The EU reaffirms its commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s political ties and economic integration with the EU. We stand by the residents of Ukraine and its democratically elected institutions and representatives.
The EU also reiterates its unwavering support and commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia and the Republic of Moldova. ” Delivered in a statement.
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