EU slams Russian ‘attack’ after country makes it easier for Ukraine separatists to obtain passports
- Spokeswoman for EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini says move is an attack against Ukrainian sovereignty
The European Union condemned Moscow on Thursday for making it easier for people in separatist areas of east Ukraine to obtain Russian passports, calling it a fresh assault on the war-torn country’s sovereignty.
The controversial decree signed by President Vladimir Putin “is another attack on Ukraine’s sovereignty by Russia”, a spokeswoman for EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini said in a statement.
“The timing of such a decision immediately after Ukraine’s presidential election … shows Russia’s intention to further destabilise Ukraine and to exacerbate the conflict,” the spokeswoman added.
The EU urged Russia “to refrain from actions that are against the Minsk agreements and impede the full reintegration of the non-government controlled areas into Ukraine”.
Germany and France on Thursday also condemned Moscow, saying the move undermined the Minsk peace agreements.