Countries Condemn Russia's Approval of Donbas Secession... "Will Impose Strong Sanctions"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyunjung] Countries are raising voices of condemnation over Russia's approval of independence for the pro-Russian separatist-controlled regions in eastern Ukraine's Donbas.

On the 21st (local time), the United States judged that Russian President Vladimir Putin's approval of separatist independence in Ukraine's Donbas region is a preliminary step for an invasion of Ukraine and plans to impose sanctions on the area. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said in a statement, "We anticipated this Russian move and are prepared to respond immediately." The U.S. plans to issue an executive order banning new American investments, trade, and financial transactions in the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) and Luhansk People's Republic (LPR) regions.

Furthermore, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated in a statement, "This is a clear rejection of the Minsk peace agreement, contradicts Russia's commitment to a diplomatic solution to the Ukraine crisis, and is a blatant attack on Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity." Blinken criticized, "Every country has an obligation not to recognize new states created by force or intimidation and not to disturb other countries' borders. Russia's decision is another blatant example of President Putin's disregard for international law."

The European Union (EU) also warned of sanctions in response to the related regions. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, tweeted that "The recognition of two separatist territories in Ukraine blatantly violates international law, Ukraine's territorial integrity, and the Minsk agreements," adding, "The EU and its partners will respond in solidarity with Ukraine with unity, determination, and resolve."

Charles Michel, President of the European Council, issued a joint statement with President von der Leyen strongly condemning the decision, pointing out that "This action is a blatant violation of international law and the Minsk agreements." They stated, "The EU will respond with sanctions against those involved in this illegal act," and added, "The EU reiterates its unwavering support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders."

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson also said, "It is clearly a violation of international law and a blatant infringement on Ukraine's sovereignty," and pledged, "We will continue to do our utmost to support the people of Ukraine with a very strong package of sanctions."

Jens Stoltenberg, Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), also emphasized that President Putin's recognition of the DPR and LPR violates international agreements. Stoltenberg condemned Russia's decision to recognize the DPR and LPR, stating, "It further undermines Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, damages efforts for a peaceful resolution of the conflict, and violates the Minsk agreements, to which Russia is a party."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.