Brussels, 16 March 2014 –
As
stated by all 28 EU Heads of State or Government on 6 March 2014, the
European Union considers the holding of the referendum on the future
status of the territory of Ukraine as contrary to the Ukrainian
Constitution and international law. The referendum is illegal and
illegitimate and its outcome will not be recognised.
The solution to the crisis in Ukraine
must be based on the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence
of Ukraine, in the framework of the Ukrainian Constitution as well as
the strict adherence to international standards. Only working together
through diplomatic processes, including direct discussions between the
Governments of Ukraine and Russia, can we find a solution to the crisis.
The European Union has a special responsibility for peace, stability
and prosperity on the European continent and will continue pursuing
these objectives using all available channels...
We reiterate the strong condemnation
of the unprovoked violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial
integrity and call on Russia to withdraw its armed forces to their
pre-crisis numbers and the areas of their permanent stationing, in
accordance with relevant agreements.
In advancing these goals, the
Ministers of Foreign Affairs will evaluate the situation tomorrow in
Brussels and decide on additional measures in line with the declaration
of the Heads of State and Government of the EU of 6 March.
