UN Secretary-General: "Russia's 'Donbas Separatist Independence Recognition' Violates Ukraine's Sovereignty"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern on the 21st (local time) over Russia's recognition of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) and Luhansk People's Republic (LPR), declared by pro-Russian separatists in Ukraine's Donbas region, calling it "a violation of Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty."

According to the UN, Secretary-General Guterres issued a statement through spokesperson Stefan Dujarric on the same day, saying, "Russia's decision regarding Ukraine's Donetsk and Luhansk regions is extremely concerning" and urged to "peacefully resolve the conflict in eastern Ukraine in accordance with the Minsk agreements."

He added, "The UN fully supports Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders," and urged "an immediate cessation of hostilities, protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, restraint from actions and statements that could escalate further risks, and a focus on peaceful diplomatic efforts."

Secretary-General Guterres' statement came immediately after Russian President Vladimir Putin convened an expanded National Security Council meeting and approved the independence of the DPR and LPR on the same day.

Earlier, spokesperson Dujarric stated at a regular briefing, "We urge restraint from unilateral decisions or actions that could undermine Ukraine's territorial integrity and the implementation of the Minsk agreements."

Due to the increasing geopolitical risks surrounding Ukraine, Secretary-General Guterres canceled his scheduled visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo the following day.

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