Mogherini: Crimea's illegal annexation remains challenge to international security

In connection with the fifth anniversary of the illegal annexation of Crimea by Russia, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini, on behalf of the European Union, made a statement in which she confirmed her commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, as well as a policy of non-recognition of illegal annexation.

Censor.NET reports quoting Interfax-Ukraine.

The corresponding statement was published in Brussels on Sunday.

"Five years on from the illegal annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol by the Russian Federation, the European Union remains steadfast in its commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The European Union reiterates that it does not recognize and continues to condemn this violation of international law," Mogherini said.

She said that the given fact "remains a direct challenge to international security, with grave implications for the international legal order that protects the territorial integrity, unity and sovereignty of all States."

"The European Union remains committed to fully implementing its non-recognition policy, including through restrictive measures. The European Union calls again on UN Member States to consider similar non-recognition measures in line with the UN General Assembly Resolution 68/262," she added.

Read more: Poroshenko promises to return Crimea immediately after presidential elections

In addition, Mogherini noted that violations of international law by Russia had led to a dangerous increase in tension in the Kerch Strait and the Sea of Azov. "The unjustified use of force by Russia against Ukraine on 25 November 2018 is a reminder of the negative effects of the illegal annexation of the Crimean peninsula on regional stability. The EU reiterates its call on Russia to release the illegally captured Ukrainian crewmembers, vessels and equipment unconditionally and without further delay," the High Representative of the European Union said.

He pointed out that pending their release, Russia should respect their rights to legal representation and access by consular authorities, and to provide the injured crewmen with appropriate medical treatment.

Mogherini also noted that the EU condemns the construction of the Kerch Bridge without the consent of Ukraine, which is another violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. The EU expects Russia to ensure unhindered and free passage of all ships through the Kerch Strait to and from the Azov Sea, in accordance with international law. The illegal restrictions to such passage have negative economic consequences for Ukraine's ports in the Azov Sea and the whole region," she stressed.

In addition, the EU High Representative referred to the holding of elections by Russia on the territory of Crimea. "The European Union does not and will not recognize the holding of elections by the Russian Federation in the Crimean peninsula," Mogherini said.