Statement on the recognition of Donetsk and Luhansk by the Russian Federation

The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) condemns in the strongest possible terms the recognition by the Russian Federation of the separatist territories of Donetsk and Luhansk. Such a declaration constitutes an intolerable violation of international law, the territorial integrity of Ukraine, and the Minsk agreements.

We call on the European Union, its Member States and international allies to show unity and be unequivocal in responding promptly and firmly to this move.

We have witnessed that the military escalation is already creating severe social and economic consequences in Ukraine and endangering the well-being of the Ukrainian people. It is a clear threat to the European way of life and will have an impact on the recovery from the economic, social and health-related consequences of the pandemic across the whole European continent.

The EESC has always been a firm supporter of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, of its independence, freedom and democracy.

In this regard, we point to the joint statement of the EU-Ukraine Civil Society Platform on the situation in Ukraine, adopted on 8 February 2022.

We reiterate, once again, our strong belief that a safe, secure and prosperous European neighbourhood means a safe, secure and prosperous European Union.

We stand with Ukraine.

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