EU: elections in Donbas are illegitimate
Ahead of the elections organized by Russia in the territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions which are controlled by pro-Russian militants, the European Union reiterated its support for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.
In a statement published on Saturday, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Frederica Mogherini said that Brussels will not recognize the results of these elections.
"The EU considers the “elections” planned for 11 November 2018 in the non-government-controlled territories of the so-called “Luhansk People’s Republic” and “Donetsk People’s Republic” as illegal and illegitimate and will not recognize them. The EU condemns these ''elections'', as they are in breach of international law, undermine the commitments taken under the Minsk agreements and violate Ukraine's sovereignty and law. The Minsk agreements exclusively provide for local elections to be held within the framework of the Ukrainian legislation and under the OSCE standards and observation. These reasons render these so-called “elections” null and void.,” said Mogherini.
The European Union expects “the Russian Federation to make full use of its considerable influence over the separatists it backs. The provisions of the Minsk agreements should be implemented fully and without further delay, starting with a comprehensive ceasefire and the withdrawal of heavy weapons, so as to create the necessary conditions for the political transition through local elections they foresee”
Brussels also reiterated support for the peaceful efforts of France and Germany in the framework of the "Norman format", as well as the Tripartite Contact Group and the OSCE.
The LPR and DPR authorities have scheduled elections for the heads and "people’s councils" of the DPR and LPR for November 11. The Security Service of Ukraine called these elections a sham and said that Russia has faked 55% for Pushilin in the DPR and 63% for Pasechnik in the LPR.