European Congress of Ukrainians condemned Russia’s “elections” in the occupied territories of Ukraine. This parody of ‘democratic participation’ contradicts international law and the constitution of Ukraine, the ECU said.
“The result of these so-called elections must be unambiguously rejected. Active participants in such elections should be held criminally liable and sanctioned. Foreign observers attempting to legitimise the results of this farce should bear the consequences of being the accomplices of Russia’s latest cynical ploy,” the ECU emphasized.
The Council of Europe also reacted to the fictitious “elections” of the Russians. In a joint statement, European officials condemned Russia and called the process invalid under international law.
“We strongly condemn the illegitimate sham “elections” that took place on 8-10 September 2023 in the territories of Ukraine temporarily occupied by the Russian Federation,” the Council of Europe stated.
“Elections” constitute a further illustration of the denial by the Russian Federation of the values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law upheld by the Council of Europe, the Europeans said.
At the same time, the European Union emphasized that the leadership of Russia would be responsible for the consequences of these illegal actions.
“We strongly reject this further futile attempt by Russia to legitimise or normalize its illegal military control and attempted annexation of parts of Ukrainian territories. The European Union does not and will not recognise either the holding of these so-called “elections” or their results. Russia’s political leadership and those involved in organising them will face consequences of these illegal actions,” the statement of Josep Borrell, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, reads.
Cover: Alexander Ermochenko/Reuters
