By David Young, PA
The Irish Government has branded Russia’s recognition of two separatist Ukrainian regions as a “blatant violation” of Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney said Ireland’s support for Ukraine was “unwavering” and said Dublin would support additional EU sanctions on Russia in response to the move by president Vladimir Putin.
The Ukraine crisis escalated on Monday when Mr Putin announced he would recognise the two breakaway regions of Donetsk and Luhansk.
Ireland’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty & territorial integrity is unwavering.
The decision by Russia to recognise the areas of Donetsk & Luhansk contravenes international law.
Ireland supports a clear, united & strong EU response, including sanctions. pic.twitter.com/5QOy9d2kU5— Simon Coveney (@simoncoveney) February 21, 2022
In response, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council president Charles Michel said Moscow’s move was a “blatant violation of international law”.
They said the EU would “react with sanctions” as they reiterated support for Ukraine.
The UK and US have also announced that they will impose new sanctions on Russia.
Commenting on the latest developments, Mr Coveney said: “Ireland’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders and it's right to choose its own foreign and security policy path is unwavering.
“The decision by the Russian Federation to proceed with the recognition of the non-government controlled areas of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts of Ukraine as independent entities contravenes international law, is a blatant violation of Ukraine’s territorial integrity, and marks a clear and unilateral breach of the Minsk agreements.
“Ireland supports a clear and strong EU response, including additional sanctions measures.”
