EU plans new sanctions in response to Russia's illegal 'referenda'
Josep Borrell - Photo © European Union 2022
(BRUSSELS) - The EU signalled additional sanctions against Russia Thursday in response to Russian plans for illegal 'referenda' in occupied areas of Ukraine, partial mobilisation and threats of nuclear conflict.
In a statement, the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell reiterated the EU's strongest condemnation of Russian president Vladimir Putin's plans to organise illegal "referenda" which aim at the annexation by Russia parts of Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia regions - areas of Ukraine currently occupied by Russia.
The "referenda" are "another blatant violation of the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine and a serious violation of the UN Charter", says the EU.
With Russia's actions in Ukraine continuing to threaten peace and security in Europe and worldwide, and leading to global threats of increased food insecurity and rising energy prices, the EU reiterated its calls on Russia to respect the principles of the UN Charter and to reverse these illegal plans.
The EU and Member States vowed that they will "never recognise these areas as anything but a part of Ukraine and will continue to support Ukraine's effort to restore its territorial integrity as long as necessary".
Saluting the courage and successes of the Ukrainian Armed Forces during the current counter-offensive, Mr Borrell says the EU will continue to support Ukraine's efforts through provision of military equipment "as long as necessary".
Despite Russia's references to nuclear weapons, the EU resolves "to stand by Ukraine and our comprehensive support to Ukraine´s ability to defend its territorial integrity and sovereignty as long as it takes".
"The EU remains unwavering in its support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and demands that Russia immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all of its troops and military equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders."