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STATEMENTS BY FOREIGN MISSIONS AND REPRESENTATIONS_1-13 APRIL 2014
13 April 2014 – NATO – NATO Secretary General concerned about escalation in eastern Ukraine
I am extremely concerned about the further escalation of tension in Eastern Ukraine. We see a
concerted campaign of violence by pro-Russian separatists, aiming to destabilise Ukraine as a
sovereign state. The reappearance of men with specialised Russian weapons and identical
uniforms without insignia, as previously worn by Russian troops during Russia`s illegal and
illegitimate seizure of Crimea, is a grave development.
I call on Russia to de-escalate the crisis and pull back its large number of troops, including special
forces, from the area around Ukraine`s border.
Any further Russian military interference, under any pretext, will only deepen Russia`s international
isolation.
Details: http://www.nato.int/cps/en/natolive/news_109148.htm
13 April 2014 – NATO – “De-escalation starts on the ground” Article by the NATO Secretary General, Anders Fogh Rasmussen
My first speech as NATO Secretary General in 2009 was called "NATO and Russia: A New
Beginning." My aim was to develop a true strategic partnership with Russia, extending practical
cooperation in areas where we share security interests, while insisting that Russia should fully
comply with its international obligations, including respecting the territorial integrity and political
freedom of its neighbours.
Through the years, we made significant progress, working together on areas such as counter-
terrorism, counter-piracy and security in Afghanistan. But Russia’s annexation of Crimea ended
that new beginning, and undermined the very basis of the partnership we had built with such great
efforts.
Today, Russia is speaking and behaving not as a partner, but as an adversary.
While tens of thousands of combat-ready Russian troops stand poised on Ukraine`s border,
Russia is also waging a propaganda war the like of which we have not seen since the end of the
Cold War. Its purpose is to pervert the truth, divert attention from Russia`s illegal actions, and
subvert the authorities in Ukraine.
In recent weeks, Russian officials have accused NATO of breaking its promises, interfering in
Ukraine’s internal affairs, and escalating the crisis. It is time to see these claims for what they are:
a smokescreen designed to cover up Russia`s own broken promises, interference and escalation.
Broken promises
Russia accuses NATO of breaking a 1990 promise that it would never expand into Central and
Eastern Europe. At different times, Russian leaders have attributed the promise to private
statements by Germany’s former Chancellor Helmut Kohl and Foreign Minister Hans-Dietrich
Genscher, and then-U.S. Secretary of State James Baker.
But in 1990, the only discussion was about the reunification of Germany. NATO enlargement was
not on the agenda, as the Warsaw Pact only dissolved a year later. Moreover, any such pledge
would have had to lead to a change of NATO`s founding treaty made by consensus of all Allies.
The reality is that no such pledge was ever made, and Russia’s leaders have failed to produce a
single document to back up this oft-repeated claim. Since it was founded, NATO has embraced
sovereign states who made their free choice to join the Alliance. That is the spirit of democracy.
Over the past seventy years, Russia has repeatedly promised to respect the sovereignty, territorial
integrity and political independence of all states. It did so, for example, when it signed the United
Nations Charter of 1945, the Helsinki Final Act of 1975 and the NATO-Russia Founding Act of
1997.
Russia is now violating Ukraine’s territorial integrity by occupying Crimea, and violating Ukraine’s
sovereignty by trying to impose a federal system. Russia has broken its word. It has done damage
to its reputation that will take years to heal. Blaming NATO will not make that better; it will make it
worse.
Interference
Russian leaders also claim that NATO has interfered in Ukraine’s internal affairs by pushing the
country towards membership.
NATO’s track record shows how false that is. When Ukraine expressed the aspiration to join the
Alliance ten years ago, we welcomed Ukraine`s aspiration. When Ukraine opted for non-bloc
status, five years ago, we respected Ukraine`s decision. When Prime Minister Yatseniuk recently
visited Brussels, he made clear that membership “is not on the radar.” That is Ukraine`s sovereign
choice - and NATO fully respects it.
Meanwhile, Russia has repeatedly tried to define, even dictate, Ukraine’s course. Top officials
have demanded that the constitution be rewritten to create a federal state. They have demanded
that Ukraine declare itself neutral, to safeguard Russia’s security.
This contradicts one of the fundamental principles of Euro-Atlantic security: that each state is free
to choose its own alliances. The Soviet Union accepted that principle when it signed the Helsinki
Accords in 1975; Russia inherited the obligation.
Only Ukraine can decide what is best for Ukraine - in full respect for all the people of Ukraine,
whatever language they speak. Other countries may help to facilitate dialogue, but they cannot
decide on Ukraine’s behalf.
If Russia is sincere about a dialogue, the first step should be to pull back the tens of thousands of
troops it has deployed on Ukraine`s border without any justification. Otherwise, any talks would not
be a dialogue, but diktat.
Escalation
Russian officials allege that NATO has escalated the crisis by moving military forces to Central
and Eastern Europe and publicly condemning Russia’s actions. Foreign Minister Lavrov even
wrote that “de-escalation starts with rhetoric.”
The reality is that actions speak louder than words: escalation and de-escalation both start on the
ground.
Since the crisis began, Russia has occupied Crimea with thousands of troops and staged a rigged
referendum That is clearly escalation. NATO has offered to support the Ukrainian government’s
defence reforms and boost the transparency and democratic control of the armed forces. That is
clearly not escalation.
Russian forces have seized Ukrainian military bases and warships. That is escalation. NATO has
sent civilian experts to advise Ukraine on the security of critical infrastructure. That is not
escalation.
Russia has moved some 40,000 troops to Ukraine’s border, backed up by tanks, fighters, artillery
and attack helicopters: escalation. NATO has launched AWACS radar aircraft flights over Poland
and Romania and sent six extra aircraft to the Baltic States to protect Allied airspace: not
escalation.
Dispelling the smokescreen
The Russian propaganda against NATO and the West is nothing but smokescreen to cover up its
own illegal actions. Dispel the smokescreen, and the truth on the ground is clear: Russia has
annexed Crimea at the barrel of a gun, in breach of all its international commitments..
Russia is now isolated in the world, its international credibility in tatters. This is not in Russia’s
interest.
Russia faces a choice: to stop blaming others for its own actions, pull back its troops, step back
into line with its international obligations and start rebuilding trust.
Otherwise, Russia will only face deeper international isolation. That is in nobody’s interest, and will
make our world only more dangerous and unpredictable.
I call on Russia to de-escalate. There are concrete steps to be taken.
Details: http://www.nato.int/cps/en/natolive/opinions_109102.htm?selectedLocale=en
11 April 2014 - The United States – Treasury Announces New Sanctions Related to Ukraine
The U.S. Department of the Treasury`s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) April 11
designated Crimean separatist leaders Pyotr Zima, Aleksei Chaliy, Rustam Temirgaliev, Yuriy
Zherebtsov, Mikhail Malyshev, and Valery Medvedev, former Ukrainian official Sergey Tsekov, and
Crimea-based gas company Chernomorneftegaz pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13660. These
individuals and this entity are being sanctioned for being responsible for or complicit in, or having
engaged in, actions or policies that undermine democratic processes or institutions in Ukraine,
actions or policies that threaten the peace, security, stability, sovereignty, or territorial integrity of
Ukraine, or misappropriation of state assets of Ukraine or of an economically significant entity in
Ukraine; or having asserted governmental authority over any part or region of Ukraine without the
authorization of the government of Ukraine.
“Crimea is occupied territory. We will continue to impose costs on those involved in ongoing
violations of Ukraine`s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” said Under Secretary for Terrorism and
Financial Intelligence David S. Cohen.
Details: http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/treasury-04112014.html
11 April 2014 - The United States – Ukraine in the White House Daily Press Briefing
MR. CARNEY: Well, as you know, the President spoke with Chancellor Merkel yesterday from Air
Force One about the concerning situation in eastern Ukraine. We continue to see there that pro-
Russian separatists, apparently with support from Moscow, continue an orchestrated campaign of
incitement and sabotage to undermine and destabilize the Ukrainian state. And we remain
concerned about increased Russian pressure on Ukraine overall. And we saw similar protest
activities in Crimea before the Russian intervention and illegal annexation, so this of course if
cause for concern.
The President and the Chancellor talked about the need for Russia to move its troops back from
the border region. In Crimea, we also continue to call for Russia to withdraw its forces, which are
violating Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. As we have said, we will hold Russia
accountable for its actions in Ukraine, whether overt or covert.
We call on President Putin and his government to cease all efforts to destabilize Ukraine, and we
caution against further military intervention. We remain prepared to impose further costs on
Russia for its actions or further provocations.
When it comes to NATO and the important work underway to reassure NATO allies, the United
States has urgently been stepping up on a bilateral basis to reassure our NATO allies who are
most concerned by the Russian intervention in Ukraine and Russia’s buildup of military forces. To
date, those efforts have been mostly taken advantage -- have mostly taken advantage of existing
missions, such as deploying 12 additional F-16s to our aviation training detachment to Poland, and
augmenting our contribution to the NATO-Baltic Air Policing Mission with six additional F-16s.
As you know, while in Europe, the President asked those NATO allies who are capable of making
similar contributions to do so as quickly as possible. This was done with a view to moving this
discussion more formally into NATO channels by tasking NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander,
General Breedlove, at the NATO Foreign Ministerial to develop additional measures to enhance
our collective defense and ensure a coordinated and continuous additional land, air, and sea
presence in the region from now through at least the end of the year. In other words, moving from
an ad-hoc “coalition of the ready” approach to a more concerted and strategic look at what NATO
can and should do to bolster its Article 5 obligations and assurances.
In other words, we’ve taken a lot of steps to reassure our NATO allies. We have had discussions
with, when the President was in Europe and since, our partners on other contributions that our
NATO allies can make in the effort to reassure the alliance and those nations that are
understandably most concerned by Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
Details: http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/wh-ukraine-04112014.html
11 April 2014 - The European Union – EU pays €19 million in Budget Support for environment and border management
The European Commission has executed three payments today in favour of the Ukrainian
Government for a total of €19.075 million, of which €14.775 million for meeting agreed targets in
border management and €4.3 million for environmental protection.
The payments were made on the basis of progress achieved in the Ukrainian national policies in
these fields, as assessed by the European Commission, in line with the conditions agreed between
the EU and the Ukrainian Government in the Financing Agreement (FA) signed in 2011.
The Commission`s assessment showed that Ukraine fulfilled five conditions (performance
indicators) out of total nine in implementing the Environment Sector Budget Support Programme,
for example the development of regional programmes on environmental protection or simplification
of the environmental authorisation system. Some indicators like modernisation of the waste
management infrastructure or stabilising the emissions of pollutants and greenhouse emissions in
the air did not meet the targets agreed in the FA. Therefore €4.3 million out of a potential €10
million was paid.
Assessment of the eleven specific conditions foreseen in the FA for the Border Management
Sector Policy showed that Ukraine partially or fully fulfilled seven conditions out of total eleven
including the establishment of the eCustoms system and decrease by 20% waiting time at state
border. Some indicators such as decreasing the level of corruption, progress in border demarcation
or creating telecommunication and online networks between the border guard and the customs
were not achieved. Therefore €9.75 million out of a potential €17 million was paid as a first variable
tranche in addition to a fixed tranche of €5 million.
Mr Andrew Rasbash, the Head of Co-operations in the EU Delegation to Ukraine, said, "These
very timely payments are part of the ongoing cooperation between Ukraine and the EU. The
precise amounts reflect reform "performance" in previous years… The relatively limited amount
paid (€13 million was "lost") reflects the fact that agreed targets for sectorial reform were not met to
a very significant extent..."
Background: How does the European Commission provide budget support?
The Commission generally provides budget support using a combination of fixed (general)
tranches linked to eligibility criteria, and variable (specific) tranches that are also linked to progress
in meeting agreed targets in for example health, education, or public financial management.
Budget support involves policy dialogue, financial transfers to the national treasury of the partner
country, performance assessment and capacity-building, based on partnership and mutual
accountability. It should not be seen as an end in itself, but as a means of delivering better aid and
achieving sustainable development objectives by fostering partner countries` ownership of
development policies and reforms. It addresses the source, not just the symptoms, of under-
development, and provides the platform on which to engage in a broad policy dialogue with partner
country on key development issues.
Details : https://www.facebook.com/EUDelegationUkraine/posts/723707717673859:0
10 April 2014 - The United States – Readout of the President’s Call with Chancellor Merkel of Germany
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
President Obama spoke today with Chancellor Merkel about the concerning situation in eastern
Ukraine, where pro-Russian separatists, apparently with support from Moscow, continue an
orchestrated campaign of incitement and sabotage to undermine and destabilize the Ukrainian
state. The leaders again called for Russia to move its troops back from the border region. They
also discussed issues relating to the forthcoming meeting of the Ukrainian, Russian, and U.S.
foreign ministers and EU High Representative. The two leaders commended the Ukrainian
government’s efforts to move forward on constitutional reform, decentralization, and democratic
elections and emphasized the importance of the international community’s strong financial support
for Ukraine. The President underscored the need for the United States, European Union, and
other global partners to be prepared to meet further Russian escalation with additional sanctions.
The President and the Chancellor look forward to continuing their discussion during her
forthcoming visit to Washington.
Details: http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/obama-merkel-04102014.html
10 April 2014 - The United States – Transatlantic Security Challenges: Central and Eastern Europe
Testimony
Victoria Nuland
Assistant Secretary, Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs
Statement Before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee
As prepared
Chairman Murphy and Ranking Member Johnson – I am honored to be here today to testify on the
security challenges facing the Transatlantic community in Central and Eastern Europe. Let me
begin by thanking you for your leadership in the passage of the Support for the Sovereignty,
Integrity, Democracy and Economic Stability of Ukraine Act. This legislation, which was supported
by every member of this subcommittee, will enable the United States to provide needed help to
Ukraine as the country undertakes its difficult transition.
I would also like to thank you for your visits to the region. I know that Chairman Murphy and
Senator McCain have traveled to Kyiv twice in the past 5 months, and that Senator McCain --
along with Ranking Member Johnson, Senator Barrasso, and others -- will travel to the Baltic
states and Moldova this weekend. This engagement demonstrates America’s continuing bipartisan
support for a Europe whole, free and at peace.
For over 20 years, the United States and our European Allies have worked to integrate Russia
more closely into the Euro-Atlantic community through our bilateral engagement and organizations
like the OSCE, the WTO and the NATO-Russia Council. Russia’s actions in Ukraine are an affront
to this effort and fundamentally change the security landscape of Eastern and Central Europe.
Today I appreciate the opportunity to discuss the impact of Russia’s actions on Ukraine, our policy
response to their actions and other challenges in the region.
Russia’s occupation of Crimea, rubberstamped by an illegitimate referendum conducted at the
barrel of a gun, has tarnished its credibility and diminished its international standing in the eyes of
Ukrainians and the world. Reports of human rights abuses in Crimea since the Russian occupation
have shocked the conscience. Russia has also attempted to intimidate Ukrainians by amassing
more than 40 thousand troops and quick strike aircraft along the border, and with trade blockades
and gas price hikes of 80 percent.
This week’s violent occupation of government buildings in Kharkhiv, Donetsk, and Luhansk deepen
our concern. Far from a spontaneous set of events, these incidents bear all the hallmarks of an
orchestrated campaign of incitement, separatism and sabotage of the Ukrainian state, aided and
abetted by the Russian security services.
So today Ukraine is a frontline state in the struggle for freedom and all the principles the
Transatlantic community holds dear. The United States stands with Ukraine in its efforts to forge its
own path forward to a more free, peaceful, and unified future. Our approach includes four pillars:
first, our bilateral and multilateral support for Ukraine; second, the costs we are imposing on
Russia for its aggressive actions; third, our efforts to deescalate the crisis diplomatically; and
fourth, our unwavering commitment to the security of our NATO Allies who also live on the
frontlines of this crisis. Let me address the first three briefly. Assistant Secretary Chollet will
address the fourth in his testimony.
First, we support the Ukrainian people and the transitional government in the courageous steps
they are taking to restore economic health, democratic choice and internal stability and security to
the country. The Rada has passed landmark anti-corruption measures, deficit reduction measures
and taken difficult steps to reform the energy sector. These necessary reforms will require painful
sacrifices from all Ukrainians. But they also open the way to an IMF package of up to $18 billion in
support.
The United States stands ready to help as the country addresses its immense challenges. Our $1
billion loan guarantee, in conjunction with IMF and EU assistance, will help implement these
reforms and will cushion some of impact on the most vulnerable in Ukrainian society.
And we have approximately $92 million in FY 2013 State/USAID funding and an anticipated $86
million in FY 2014 State/USAID funding for assistance to Ukraine in areas such as strengthening
anti-corruption efforts, revising public procurement legislation, introducing agriculture and energy
sector reforms, deepening privatization efforts, improving the transparency and quality of higher
education and helping Ukraine prepare for free, fair elections on May 25th.
We are also working with the international community to push back against Russian propaganda,
lies and efforts to destabilize Ukraine’s regions. The OSCE has already deployed more than 120
monitors in ten locations throughout Ukraine as part of a special monitoring mission and the
mandate allows the mission to grow to 500. The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and
Human Rights will also play an essential role by sending 1000 observers for the Presidential
election, one of its biggest missions ever.
Second, Russia is already paying a high price for its actions, and that cost will go up if its pressure
on Ukraine does not abate. Across the board, Russia has found itself isolated. The United States
along with all other G-7 members declined to attend the Sochi G-8 Summit and suspended
participation in G-8 activities. Instead, the G-7 will meet in Brussels. On March 27th, the United
States and 99 other countries in the UN General Assembly reaffirmed the unity and territorial
integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders. Only 11 voted against. Along with
our Allies, we have suspended practical cooperation between NATO and Russia. We have
suspended most bilateral economic and military cooperation and much of the work of the U.S.-
Russia Bilateral Presidential Commission. The President signed two Executive Orders authorizing
sanctions against those responsible, and finding that the actions and policies of the Russian
government undermine democratic process and institutions in Ukraine; threaten its peace, security,
stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity; and contribute to the misappropriation of its assets.
These sanctions have been carefully coordinated with the EU and other global partners. And today
we are considering further measures in response to Russia’s continued pressure on Ukraine.
And the financial markets are reacting. The ruble has fallen. Capital flight from Russia is at a high
not seen in years. And Russia has been downgraded by major credit rating agencies on account of
its actions.
These costs will only increase if Russia does not change course.
At the same time, we want to try to de-escalate the crisis. Secretary Kerry has met three times with
Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov in recent weeks, with the support of the Ukrainian government at
a time when Russia would not meet directly with Ukraine. Earlier this week, Russia agreed to sit
down next week with Ukraine, the EU and U.S. to discuss de-escalation, demobilization, support
for elections and constitutional reform. Between now and then, we have made it clear that Russia
needs to take concrete steps to disavow separatist actions in Eastern Ukraine, pull back its forces
outside the country, and demonstrate that they are prepared to come to these discussions with the
goal of de-escalating the conflict.
So Russia has a choice—to work with the international community to help build an independent
Ukraine that can meet the hopes and aspirations of all Ukrainians, or Russia can face greater
isolation and economic cost.
We are also concerned about the pressure this crisis is putting on Moldova, Georgia, Armenia,
Azerbaijan and other neighbors of Ukraine. Moldova in particular has been the victim of economic
pressure from Russia, intense Russia-sponsored propaganda against its choice to associate with
the EU and renewed separatist efforts in Transnistria and Gagauzia. As you know, we have
intensified U.S. political and economic support to Moldova, and other states of the region in recent
months and this effort will be sustained.
The Ukraine crisis highlights another deep and growing challenge in the Euro-Atlantic space. The
Maidan protestors had many grievances. But one of the most galvanizing across Ukraine was the
pervasive corruption that has infused every aspect of Ukraine’s politics, economy and social fabric
for too long. And as Secretary Kerry highlighted at the Munich Security Conference, we are seeing
a similar disturbing trend in too many parts of Central and Eastern Europe and the Balkans now
“where the aspirations of citizens are … being trampled beneath corrupt, oligarchic interests” who
“use their money and influence to stifle political opposition and dissent, to buy politicians and
media outlets, weaken judicial independence and the rights on NGOs.”
We are also seeing a growing league of oligarchs and corrupt politicians work together, including
across national lines, to protect and help each other maintain that influence, and keep the cash
flowing that feeds their preferred system. Corruption of this kind doesn’t just rot democracies from
the inside, it also makes them vulnerable to corrupting influences outside country who seek undue
economic and political influence over state policies and decision-making. In other words, in many
parts of Europe, fighting corruption needs to be a higher national priority in order to protect and
defend democracy AND state sovereignty.
As we look to shore up the security, prosperity and values that are vital to our shared aspiration for
a Europe whole free and at peace, therefore, fighting corruption must be a more central line of
effort. Over the coming year, you will see our focus on this intensify in the work we do across the
Balkans, and Central and Eastern Europe, in close collaboration with the with EU, to help these
countries promote clean, accountable government, a lively and free civil society, and media
independence and to help governments and citizens expose and root out corruption wherever it
hides.
Similarly, the Ukraine crisis is a wake-up call to accelerate other work we have been doing to
promote a stronger, more prosperous Transatlantic community. As Assistant Secretary Chollet will
discuss, the renewed need for security vigilance along NATO’s Eastern border means our
European Allies must reverse the downward trend of shrinking defense budgets.
And even as we revitalize our transatlantic security ties, we must also strengthen our economic ties
and accelerate the growth and job creation on both sides of the Atlantic by completing an
ambitious Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership agreement. The work that Eurozone
countries are doing to strengthen the banking system and institute other reforms will also give
investors confidence.
Finally, we must do more together as a Transatlantic community to strengthen Europe’s energy
independence and internal market including guaranteeing reverse flow capabilities; ensuring
greater diversity of supply; enhancing storage capacity and developing a deeper network of import
terminals and interconnectors throughout the continent.
So this crisis has intensified our focus not just on Central and Eastern Europe but on a broad set of
transatlantic security challenges – and opportunities—on the road to a Europe whole, free and at
peace.
We are grateful for the bipartisan and very active support of this subcommittee in that effort. I look
forward to your questions.
Details: http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/nuland-ukraine-04102014.html
10 April 2014 - The United States – Readout of Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel`s Call with Ukraine`s Acting Minister of Defense Mykhaylo Koval
Assistant Press Secretary Carl Woog provided the following readout:
"Secretary Hagel spoke by phone with Ukraine`s Acting Minister of Defense Mykhaylo Koval on his
return flight to Washington from Beijing. It was their first conversation since the minister took office
last month.
"Secretary Hagel commended Minister Koval for his leadership of the Armed Forces during this
critical time for Ukraine and thanked him for hosting recent bilateral defense consultations in Kyiv.
They discussed the situation in Crimea, as well as Russia`s military activities along Ukraine`s
borders and attempts to destabilize communities in Eastern Ukraine.
"Secretary Hagel told Minister Koval that the United States will continue to stand with Ukraine.
They both pledged to remain in close contact going forward."
Details: http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/hagel-ukraine-04102014.html
10 April 2014 - The United States – United States Mission to the OSCE. Ongoing Violations of OSCE Principles and Commitments by the Russian Federation and the Situation in Ukraine
As delivered by Ambassador Daniel B. Baer to the Permanent Council, Vienna
It has been 41 days since the Russian Federation began its illegal military actions in Crimea; 24
days since the Russian Federation acknowledged a so-called referendum that was both illegal and
illegitimate; and 20 days since Russia’s lawmakers voted to annex Crimea—an unlawful attempt to
violate Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Yet, these dates mark only a handful of the
numerous, destabilizing actions that the Russian Federation has carried out in recent months, thus
undermining Ukraine’s stability and threatening Ukrainian citizens’ unity, peace, and prosperity.
Russia’s ongoing actions are a caustic chemical, eroding the pillars that have underpinned security
in Europe for a generation.
Since the Russian delegation chose not to join us at the joint FSC/PC meeting on Monday, the
United States reiterates its statement made at that meeting. The continued buildup of forces along
Russia’s border with Ukraine risks a significant destabilization of European security. It is in and of
itself a menacing act. We reject the Russian claim that the use of Vienna Document Chapter III
measures by the United States in this instance is “unfounded.” Our concerns are serious and
genuine. This unusual Russian military activity has given rise to specific concerns about the
security of at least one OSCE participating State, Ukraine, and has generated questions and
concerns among many other neighbors as well.
Furthermore, the Vienna Document is this Organization’s signature confidence- and security-
building tool. Russia has refused to engage in the confidence building measures enshrined in the
Document, which were designed to address security concerns participating States have about the
unusual and unscheduled military activities of another State, and which we all took such great
pains to agree to by consensus. This blatant disregard for, and disrespect of, this Organization
erodes a key component of the entire European security structure.
In addition to its unusual military activity along Ukraine’s borders, Russia is also supporting a
carefully orchestrated campaign of destabilization of eastern Ukraine. Events this week in Kharkiv,
Donetsk, Luhansk, and Mariupol were not spontaneous expressions of local discontent with the
government in Kyiv. There is strong evidence that some of the armed separatists that took over
government buildings in these areas were paid to do so, and were not local residents.
This combination of military build-up and efforts to destabilize public life in eastern Ukraine is
deeply troubling, and it isn’t fooling anyone. Russia is clearly attempting to create a pretext for
further intervention in Ukraine. In the spirit of the Helsinki Final Act, we call upon Russia to:
- Reverse the illegal purported “annexation” of Crimea and permit the OSCE special monitoring
mission to visit the Crimean region;
- Draw down the military forces massed on Ukraine’s border;
- Cease all efforts to destabilize Ukraine;
- Publicly disavow the activities of separatists, saboteurs, and provocateurs;
- Return Russian forces operating on Ukrainian territory in Crimea to their pre-crisis garrisons and
numbers in accordance with existing bilateral agreements between Ukraine and the
Russian Federation;
- Invite additional Vienna Document visits to allow impartial observation by members of the
international community of Russia’s current military activities in the region of the Ukrainian
border; and
- Engage in bilateral dialogue with the government of Ukraine to address any legitimate concerns.
In short, Russia must start respecting its OSCE commitments.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Details: http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/osce-ukraine-04102014.html
10 April 2014 – NATO – NATO Secretary General discusses collective defence, defence investment and Ukraine crisis in Prague
The NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen discussed the Ukraine crisis with the
Prime Minister of the Czech Republic Boshulav Sobotka during a visit to Prague on Thursday (10
April). “From Prague, I have this message to Russia. You have a choice. To stop blaming others
for your own actions. To stop massing your troops. To stop escalating this crisis and start engaging
in a genuine dialogue. If Russia is serious about a dialogue, the first step should be to pull back its
troops”, the Secretary General said at a press conference with Prime Minister Sobotka.
Visiting the Czech Republic as it celebrates the 15th anniversary of its accession to NATO, Mr
Fogh Rasmussen praised the Czech Republic’s commitment to the Alliance: “Your troops have
made a valuable contribution to our missions in Afghanistan and Kosovo. You are fully involved in
our Smart Defence efforts to develop modern military capabilities together.”
Referring to the crisis in Ukraine, Mr. Fogh Rasmussen said:
“For the first time since countries like the Czech Republic won their freedom, and the Cold War
ended, we see one state trying to grab part of another’s territory at gunpoint. As I speak, some
40,000 Russian troops are massed along Ukraine’s borders. Not training, but ready for combat. We
have seen the satellite images, day after day. Russia is stirring up ethnic tensions in eastern
Ukraine and provoking unrest. And Russia is using its military might to dictate that Ukraine should
become a federal, neutral state. That is a decision which only Ukraine, as a sovereign state, can
make. Nobody else”.
Mr Fogh Rasmussen stressed that NATO’s commitment to collective defence is unwavering and
that the Alliance is taking legitimate steps to deal with the instability that Russia’s illegitimate
actions have created.
Speaking about NATO’s Wales Summit in September, the Secretary General called on all NATO
Allies to keep their capabilities strong and enhance training for their forces. “Above all, we must
stop the decline of our defence budgets. And start reinvesting in our security. Investing in defence
has a cost. But we see that insecurity has a much higher price”, he said.
Details: http://www.nato.int/cps/en/natolive/news_108987.htm
10 April 2014- NATO – Imagery reveals destabilizing Russian forces near Ukraine border
NATO Plans Balanced Response to Reassure Allies
SHAPE, BELGIUM - Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) released a package
of satellite imagery to media outlets from across Europe on Thursday, 10 April 2014, that shows
details of the location and type of Russian units NATO has observed along the border with
Ukraine. NATO assesses that the Russian military has approximately 35-40,000 troops in the
vicinity of the Ukrainian border, a claim Russian officials have repeatedly denied is a cause for
concern.
Brigadier Gary Deakin, the Director of the Comprehensive Crisis Operations and Management
Centre (CCOMC) at SHAPE, spoke to reporters regarding SHAPE’s assessment of the images.
"The Russians have an array of capabilities including aircraft, helicopters, special forces, tanks,
artillery, infantry fighting vehicles… and these could move in a matter of hours,” said Brig. Deakin.
"These forces have a destabilizing effect and present serious implications for the security and
stability of the region,” he added.
SHAPE is observing a small amount of Russian administrative movement on the ground, but the
overall lack of activity is raising flags among military staff. According to Brig. Deakin, Russian units
have moved into the region and are massing in various locations in the vicinity of the border, rather
than conducting specific exercise manoeuvers.
This assessment is shared by the Supreme Allied Commander Europe, General Philip Breedlove,
who said the previous day that he was concerned by the Russian build-up. In speaking about the
Russian force he said: "I would characterize it as a combined arms army… it has all of the
provisioning and enabling that it needs to accomplish military objectives if given them."
SHAPE has submitted a range of options and recommendations to the North Atlantic Council,
through the International Military Staff.
"Essentially what we are looking at is a package of land, air and maritime measures that would
build assurance for our eastern most allies,” said General Breedlove. NATO has repeatedly called
upon Russia to de-escalate the situation by withdrawing troops along Ukraine’s border.
NATO continues to monitor events closely and has prudently increased AWACS surveillance
flights over Romania and Poland in order to maintain awareness of activity in Ukraine. The Alliance
has also significantly increased air policing activity and the number of aircraft dedicated to this
task.
In early April, NATO Foreign Ministers directed SACEUR to develop additional options to reassure
NATO Allies.
Details: http://www.aco.nato.int/imagery-reveals-destabilizing-russian-forces-near-ukraine-border-nato-plans-balanced-response-to-reassure-allies.aspx
9 April 2014 - The European Union – Support Group for Ukraine
The European Commission has decided today to create a Support Group for Ukraine
This Support Group will provide a focal point, structure, overview and guidance for the
Commission`s work to support Ukraine. It will also help mobilise Member States` expertise and
further enhance coordination with other donors and the International Financing Institutions.
Commissioner for enlargement and neighbourhood policy Stefan Füle will coordinate this Support
Group, which will report to President Barroso and High Representative/Vice- President Catherine
Ashton and will draw on the contributions of all relevant Commission portfolios.
"The European Commission is determined to help Ukraine for the long term.", said President
Barroso. "The Commission has already proposed an overall support package worth of at least €11
billion over the next couple of years and some of these measures are already being rolled out. The
political chapters of the Association Agreement have been signed, sealing the free and democratic
choice of Ukraine to be closely associated with the European Union. Today`s decision to create a
Support Group will ensure that the Ukrainian authorities have all the support they need in
undertaking the political and economic reforms that are necessary to stabilise the country. Our
common goal is to have a democratic, independent and prosperous Ukraine."
In the immediate short-term (until end 2014), the Support Group will identify and coordinate with
the Ukrainian authorities, benefitting from input from the Member States, the technical assistance
that they need to 1) stabilise the fragile financial, economic and political situation in Ukraine; 2)
plan and implement reforms to boost growth and 3) identify reform priorities and advance the
reforms necessary to ensure that immediate benefits can be obtained from the EU offer
(Association Agreement and Visa Liberalisation Action Plan).
In the medium term (from 2015), the goal of the Support Group will be to further support Ukraine in
the elaboration and implementation of comprehensive reform programmes.
The work of the Support Group will be based on the "European agenda for reform", a document
prepared with the Ukrainian authorities to match the EU`s short- and mid-term support actions with
Ukraine needs.
Background:
The Support Group will be based in Brussels, with its staff travelling to Ukraine as necessary.
Ukraine will be invited to set up a central co-ordination structure able to oversee the
implementation of the broad reform programme as well as the Association Agreement and to co-
ordinate the work on the creation of the necessary national bodies/structures.
In addition, a platform for donor co-ordination will be established which will act as the vehicle for
mobilisation of resources and expertise from the broader international environment to support
implementation of these reform priorities
The Support Group will be headed by Mr Peter Balas, currently Deputy Director General in the
Trade Directorate-General. The Support Group will be administratively attached to the Directorate-
General for Development and Cooperation, and shall consist of:
• A Head of Support Group
• Up to 30 full-time officials
• Seconded National Experts
• Temporary agents
• Contract agents
• Special Advisers
The Head of the Support Group shall report to the President and the High Representative/Vice
President under the guidance of the Commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighbourhood
Policy.
The work of the Support Group could be extended also to Georgia and Moldova by a decision of
the President of the Commission and the Vice-President for Personnel.
Details: http://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/ukraine/press_corner/all_news/news/2014/2014_04_10_01_en.htm
9 April 2014 - The United States – Readout of Secretary Kerry`s Call with Foreign Minister Lavrov
Jen Psaki, Spokesperson: In a second phone call today, Secretary Kerry and Foreign Minister
Lavrov discussed the importance of resolving the security situation in key cities in Eastern Ukraine
peacefully and through dialogue and they both rejected the use of force to obtain political
objectives. They also discussed the effort to remove chemical weapons from Syria.
Details: http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/kerry-lavrov-04092014.html
9 April 2014 - The European Union – Statement by Catherine Ashton’s spokesperson on situation in Eastern Ukraine
The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and
Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement:
“High Representative Catherine Ashton is following closely the worrying developments in Eastern
Ukraine, including seizure of public buildings in Kharkiv, Donetsk and Luhansk with use of force.
She commends the Ukrainian authorities for pursuing their law and order operations in a measured
manner.
The High Representative reiterates the strong support of the European Union for Ukraine`s unity,
sovereignty and territorial integrity. She calls against any further destabilisation of Ukraine, whether
from the inside or the outside. Political demands should be addressed in a non-violent way through
appropriate fora. Presidential elections next month need to provide a legitimate and inclusive
platform for citizens to express their views about Ukraine`s future.
It is also of vital importance that Ukraine`s constitutional reform is comprehensive and completed
without delay. The Ukrainian government needs to reach out to the population from east to west of
Ukraine, and ensure that political processes as well as reforms reflect the regional diversity and
respect human and civil rights.
The EU stands by the Ukrainian government in its efforts to stabilise the situation. The High
Representative continues the diplomatic efforts aiming at de-escalating the situation in Ukraine. In
this context she will meet Foreign Ministers of the US, Russian Federation and Ukraine next week.
The Foreign Affairs Council will assess the latest developments on 14 April.”
Details: http://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/ukraine/press_corner/all_news/news/2014/2014_04_09_02_en.htm
9 April 2014 - The European Union – President Van Rompuy statement on Ukraine
Early March, a few days after the invasion of Crimea by Russia, I called an extra informal summit
of EU leaders. Bringing 28 presidents and prime ministers together for a foreign affairs crisis
meeting is not a decision one takes lightly. In fact, it only happened five times in fifteen years – for
instance after "9/11", or to prepare the Libyan intervention. This time too, the stakes were high.
The matter was again at the top of our agenda at the regular March European Council, little over
two weeks ago.
As regards Ukraine, we took an important step. On 21 March, we signed the political parts of the
Association Agreement with Ukraine. It was a strong way to recognise the aspirations of the people
of Ukraine to live in a country governed by values, by democracy and the rule of law, where all
citizens – and not just few – have a stake in national prosperity. We recognise the popular yearning
for a decent life as a nation, for a European way of life. Last November, it was the refusal to sign
that very Association Agreement with the European Union which triggered the Maidan movement –
the “Euro Maidan”. A real democratic uprising by people who had had enough of how they were
governed. A political and cultural shift. A clash of two political cultures.
With the Association Agreement – the remaining economic parts of which will also be signed soon
– the European Union shows steadfast political support for the course the people of Ukraine have
courageously pursued on the way to an open and inclusive democracy. Let me insist: it was their
choice. It was neither imposed nor triggered by manipulation, provocation or violence. An
Association Agreement does not come for free. The contracting country has to meet strict criteria
and benchmarks. We are not offering unconditional loans, as Russia was.
We also decided a number of financial measures to assist the country: substantial macrofinancial
assistance and the temporary and unilateral removal of customs duties for Ukrainian exports to
Europe. We will make this happen as swiftly as possible. The IMF package comes on top of this.
All this will help Ukraine on its path of economic and social reform. It is not an easy road, certainly
not in this time of turmoil and tensions. But – as I said to the Ukrainian Prime Minister during the
signing ceremony – we hope that along this road, the Association Agreement can serve as a
compass.
As regards Russia, all European leaders and the international community have strongly
condemned Crimea’s illegal annexation as a disgrace in the 21st century. Early on EU leaders
decided unanimously on sanctions in three stages. We are in stage two (visa ban, asset freezes).
But we made very clear that failure to settle the crisis peacefully, and any steps by Russia to
destabilise Ukraine, will have far-reaching consequences. And by that we mean consequences on
relations in a broad range of economic areas. In the last European Council meeting we asked the
Commission and the member states to prepare possible further targeted measures. It is a matter of
being ready. There still is unrest in Ukraine, as recent events show, and it must not be exploited by
any party.
Of course, sanctions are not a goal in themselves; they are a means to a goal. The objective is a
negotiated solution, in respect of Ukraine’s sovereignty and international law. This foreign policy
crisis already has internal consequences for Europe – including positive ones. Strikingly, the last
European Council decided to deepen the Union`s energy policy, towards a `energy union` of sorts.
Indeed, we all want to decrease our dependency from Russian gas (which is on average 30%).
Gas is used by Russia as a political instrument. We asked the Commission to come up with a
concrete plan to avoid this energy risk, for instance by working more as a team on gas contracts.
As a matter of a fact, after what happened in Crimea, we must rethink the EU-Russia relationship.
We invested a lot in good relations with Russia the last decade (by supporting its WTO
membership; the Partnership for Modernisation). We were ready to engage on a New Agreement.
Unfortunately, Russia has other objectives and tries to restore a foregone world. But the past will
never come back.
Meanwhile, as European Union we will also continue to strengthen our ties with Georgia and
Moldova. At the March European Council, we decided to bring forward the signature of their full
Association Agreements – to no later than June. The determination is there on their side, and it is
also there on ours, including to withstand likely pressure from Russia not to sign.
On the Ukrainian situation, we are in close contact with the United States. The extra G7 meeting in
The Hague – in the margins of the Nuclear Security Summit two weeks ago – was a good forum to
coordinate positions. G7 leaders agreed to cancel their participation to the G8 in Sotchi, and
instead to convene for another G7 summit, to be held early June, in Brussels.
As I mentioned, we saw President Obama again two days later, at the EU-US summit in Brussels.
Apart from Ukraine, we addressed many topics – from Iran to data protection to climate. Let me
just mention two topics, that gain in urgency now.
- Energy security: for us it is important to see what we can do together with our American partners
to reduce Europe’s dependency on Russian gas.
- And transatlantic trade: together with President Obama we reconfirmed our shared commitment
to an ambitious transatlantic trade deal.
In days like these, forging even stronger economic ties across the Atlantic is also a powerful
political sign. A way to show our public opinions and the world who we are at heart: economies
based on rules, societies based on values, and proud of being so. It also shows that the Atlantic
doesn’t belong to the past. The `West` exists; not as in the Cold War, but as a driver for
democracy. The Cold War was ideological and based on fear, obliging countries to make a choice.
That world is no longer, once and for all.
Details: http://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/ukraine/press_corner/all_news/news/2014/2014_04_09_01_en.htm
8 April 2014 - The United Kingdom – The Foreign Secretary William Hague has expressed grave concern about Crimea and recent events in the east of Ukraine.
Speaking after answering questions on Ukraine in the House of Commons, the Foreign Secretary
said:
The UK government is gravely concerned about the situation in Crimea and in the east of Ukraine,
where armed groups seized government buildings in Donetsk, Kharkiv and Lugansk. There can be
no justification for this action, which bears all the hallmarks of a Russian strategy to destabilise
Ukraine. Russia should be clear that a deliberate and further escalation of the crisis will bring
serious political and economic consequences. I commend the Ukrainian Government for their clear
and determined response so far.
The European Council has asked the Commission to draw up far reaching sanctions in the event of
further escalation by Russia. It is alarming that President Putin has already sought authority to
send armed forces into any part of Ukraine. Russia should be clear that the UK will consider any
armed Russian presence in eastern Ukraine as a further and deliberate escalation.
We will be assessing events in eastern Ukraine carefully over the coming days. The strength and
unity of the EU is vital for upholding a rules-based international system, and the Prime Minister and
I have stressed to European partners the need to accelerate measures that will reduce European
dependence on Russian gas. We are also convening an urgent meeting of G7 energy Ministers to
discuss energy security ahead of the G7 Summit in June.
Details: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/foreign-secretary-concerned-about-situation-in-eastern-ukraine
8 April 2014 - The Nordic Council – The Nordic Council issued the following statement on the situation in Ukraine at its Theme Session in Iceland.
What is needed now is to uphold international law, democracy and human rights
The current situation in the Ukraine and the challenges facing the process of democratisation in the
country were debated at the Nordic Council Theme Session in Akureyri, Iceland, on 8 April.
In 2014, the Nordic countries are celebrating 200 years of peace between them – a unique period
of regional stability. The importance of this historical phenomenon for the whole Region cannot be
overstated. It has facilitated relationships based on mutual trust and confidence that transcend
national borders, and extensive networks of contacts and co-operation have been established at all
levels.
Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea after a referendum on the peninsula and the country’s
subsequent accession to the Russian Federation are unacceptable and represent a breach of the
Ukrainian constitution. The Nordic Council calls upon the Russian Federation to take measures to
alleviate the tense situation. What happens in South-eastern Europe has an impact on relations in
Northern Europe. The Nordic Council will therefore evaluate and follow developments closely.
The Nordic Council agrees with the statement on the situation in Ukraine issued by the Nordic,
Baltic and Visegrád foreign ministers following their meeting in Narva, Estonia, on 6–7 March 2014.
At parliamentary level, the Nordic Council has consulted with its partners in the Baltic Assembly
and in Poland.
Interest in closer co-operation in the Baltic Sea Region was clearly evident in the dialogue meeting
between the Nordic Council and representatives from the Polish and Baltic parliaments’ foreign
affairs committees.
The Nordic countries must stand together with the rest of Europe on this matter. When the focus
shifts from Crimea to Kiev, Ukraine`s democratisation process will be in great need of support.
The will of the Nordic Council to support Ukraine in this process is based on its long tradition of
support for democracy and the rule of law. Just as the Nordic countries supported the new Baltic
democracies two decades ago, the Nordic Region is today willing to support democracy in Ukraine.
The priority is to find ways of working together to promote democracy. First and foremost, the
Nordic Council will support parliamentary co-operation What is needed now is to uphold
international law, democracy and human rights
Details: http://www.norden.org/en/news-and-events/news/international-law-serves-as-key-to-statement-on-ukraine
7 April 7 2014 - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Canada – Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement:
“Canada strongly condemns the agents provocateurs that are fomenting unrest in the three
Ukrainian oblasts of Kharkiv, Donetsk and Luhansk.
“Canada calls for calm and for Ukraine’s territorial integrity to be respected. Russia must not
interfere in the affairs of a sovereign state.
“Russia’s continued provocative actions in Crimea and elsewhere are completely unacceptable.
“If this pattern persists, Russia will continue to face increased isolation from the international
community and suffer further serious consequences as a result of its actions.”
Details: http://www.international.gc.ca/media/aff/news-communiques/2014/04/07a.aspx
5 April 2014 - OSCE – Statement by OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities
The OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities has been closely following developments in
Ukraine since the office was established in 1993 to act as an instrument of conflict prevention at
the earliest stage. The successive High Commissioners have paid particular attention to the inter-
ethnic situation in Crimea, legislation regulating minority rights and language use, and the
education of national minorities.
The High Commissioner’s mandate requires that she works behind the scenes and in confidence.
She therefore issues few public statements. This statement provides an update on her most recent
visits. Currently, High Commissioner Astrid Thors’ main concerns are language policy and the
situation in Crimea.
Thors visited Kyiv, Donetsk, Luhansk and Odessa from 23 to 28 March 2014, and Kiev from 1 to 3
April. She made an earlier visit, which also included a trip to Crimea, on 4 to 6 March as part of a
high-level OSCE delegation together with Ambassador Tim Guldimann, the Special Envoy of the
OSCE Chairperson-in-Office. Her office is also contributing to a Human Rights Assessment
Mission, in co-operation with the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights.
During her most recent two visits, Thors was pleased to hear that the interim Government does not
intend to make any hasty decisions regarding language policy. “There can be no doubt that the
2012 Law on the ‘Principles of the State Language Policy’ remains in force, and, legally, nothing
has changed regarding the status of languages,” she said. “Therefore, there is no need for the
Ukrainian Parliament to rush to make any new decisions. I hope that all political forces can adhere
to this opinion.”
She reiterated her comments made in her public statement of 24 February
[www.osce.org/hcnm/115643] that, to avoid increasing tensions, the authorities should ensure that
the concerns of all ethnic and linguistic groups are taken into account and that consultations also
encompass international organizations to ensure that any new language legislation meets
European standards. She added that time is also needed to evaluate the merits and shortcomings
of the 2012 Language Law, as well as its implementation in practice.
The High Commissioner has been able to speak to a wide range of interlocutors to assess the
situation on the ground. She expressed particular concern that she heard a lot of conflicting
impressions that are contributing to a climate of fear and confusion. Contradictory information
leads to an “information war”. Any measures taken to restrict access to cross-border transmission
of media should strictly comply with international standards, as stated by the OSCE Representative
on Freedom of the Media [www.osce.org/fom/116888]. In addition, many people told her they are
concerned about security and the presence of militarized groups with an unclear status. Thors
commended the interim Government’s efforts to address the security issues in the country,
including the disarmament of armed groups that exist outside of the legal framework, in order to
combat such perceptions.
Thors also remains concerned about the situation in Crimea. Following her statement on 6 March
[www.osce.org/hcnm/116180], the High Commissioner reminded the authorities in effective control
of Crimea that they remain responsible for the human rights, including minority rights, of all
persons residing on the peninsula. “The people in Crimea, in particular the Crimean Tatars and the
Ukrainian community, are in a precarious position. I urge the authorities in effective control to
refrain from actions that exclude people from employment in the public and private sectors or force
them to give up their property.”
She again drew particular attention to The Bolzano/Bozen Recommendations on National
Minorities in Inter-State Relations, which state that while a State might have an interest in
supporting persons belonging to national minorities in other States, “no State may exercise
jurisdiction over the population or part of the population of another State within the territory of that
State without its consent” because “the respect for and protection of minority rights is primarily the
responsibility of the State where the minority resides.”
Details: http://www.osce.org/hcnm/117175
4 April 2014 - The Russian Federation – Comment by the Information and Press Department of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on migration topics in the context of Russian-Ukrainian relations
With regard to the initiative of the Consular Service Department of the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign
Affairs about consultations with Russia regarding the ban on entry of Ukrainian nationals into the
Russian Federation we can make the following statements.
As is known, since January 2013 new norms of the Federal Law No. 114-FZ “On the Procedure for
Exiting and Entering the Russian Federation” of 15.08.1996 are in force, which envisage a ban on
the entry of foreign nationals into Russia for 3 years, if they have violated the rules of stay in its
territory. Moreover, any foreigners, who have violated the regime of stay, the procedure of
employment in the Russian territory several times, or who are held administratively liable for
violations of public order two or three times or of a decision regarding administrative deportation
from the Russian Federation, are banned entry for 5 years.
It is important that this rule concerns all foreigners, who have violated Russian migration law, and
there is no discrimination of Ukrainians here.
It seems to us that the topic of migration must be a subject of discussion between profile agencies
of Russia and Ukraine with the participation of representatives from interested units of the Ministry
of Foreign Affairs of both countries.
Details: http://www.mid.ru/bdomp/brp_4.nsf/e78a48070f128a7b43256999005bcbb3/7143b1a44471712f44257cb40050de03!OpenDocument
4 April 2014 - The Russian Federation – Comment by the Information and Press Department of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the act of vandalism in Sumy
The besmearing of monuments in Ukraine continues. Another outrageous act of vandalism was
committed a few days ago in Sumy. Memorial boards were broken, which had been erected to
honour prominent residents of Sumy: Suren Kaftaryan – a historian, who was the first Doctor of
Science in this region, and a Hero of the Soviet Union, military pilot Fyodor Dudnik, who piloted a
bomber in the Kursk Salient, and defended Moscow and Kiev. During the night, evil-doers, using a
sledge hammer, broke marble plates on the house where these people lived and then relieved
themselves on the site.
This is like spitting in the face of veterans of the Great Patriotic War.
We would like to hear the reaction to this outrageous act from a representative of the Ukrainian
Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Details: http://www.mid.ru/bdomp/brp_4.nsf/e78a48070f128a7b43256999005bcbb3/8d099279155fc25b44257cb00052bb21!OpenDocument
4 April 2014 - The United States – Letter to the Editor (The Washingon Post) by Ambassador Geoffrey Pyatt: Ukraine — Not the United States or Russia — Will Determine Its Own Future
The April 1 editorial “Shut out ” suggested that the Obama administration is working with Russia on
Ukraine without the participation and input of the legitimate, interim government of Ukraine.
Nothing could be further from the truth.
Secretary of State John F. Kerry has underscored in his meetings with Russian Foreign Minister
Sergei Lavrov the steps Russia must take to deescalate the situation. The administration has been
clear that Russia’s occupation of Crimea is illegal, will not be recognized by the international
community and must be reversed. That is the approach I hear from the Ukrainian government. We
have made no promises beyond that, nor have we engaged in decision-making with Russia over
the future of Ukraine. As President Obama emphasized when Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy
Yatsenyuk was in Washington last month, “We want the Ukrainian people to determine their own
destiny.” That idea has guided U.S. policy from the first days of this crisis.
The Russian government’s illegal “annexation” of Crimea caused this crisis, and the Russian
government’s actions to deescalate tensions will resolve it. It makes sense for Mr. Kerry and Mr.
Lavrov to talk. But Mr. Kerry put it best when, after meeting with Mr. Lavrov on Sunday in Paris, he
said: “There will be no decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine.” That is how we see it, and we’ve
been keeping in touch with the legitimate government in Kiev and the people of Ukraine to ensure
that they are the ones who choose their future.
Geoffrey Pyatt, Kiev
The writer is the U.S. ambassador to Ukraine.
Details: http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/amb-wp.html
3 April 2014 - The European Parliament – MEPs cut customs duties for Ukraine imports
About 98% of the customs duties that Ukrainian iron, steel, farm produce and machinery exporters
pay at EU borders will be removed by a proposal backed by European Parliament on Thursday.
This unilateral measure will boost Ukraine’s struggling economy by saving its manufacturers and
exporters €487 million a year.
"The European Parliament has supported an EU path for Ukraine for many years. This is our first
chance to demonstrate our support in practical terms, to help Ukraine during its current economic
crisis in the face of dwindling currency reserves and increased pressure from the Kremlin", said
rapporteur Pawel Zalewski (EPP, PL).
"As Putin closes Russian markets for Ukrainian exports, we are opening them" he added.
The European Parliament backed his proposal by 531 votes to 88, with 20 abstentions.
Which tariffs will be cut?
This unilateral trade measure, set to apply from May 2014, will remove 94.7% of EU tariffs
currently charged on industrial goods imports from Ukraine and reduce them for the remaining
handful of industrial goods.
It will also remove EU tariffs on over 80% of Ukraine’s farm produce exports. However, the EU will
restrict the amounts of “sensitive” products, such as cereals, pork, beef, poultry, and processed
food, that may be imported tariff free, so as not to harm the interests of EU producers of these
products.
A temporary and unilateral measure
This EU trade “preference” measure does not require Ukraine to reciprocate by removing its own
customs duties on imports from the EU, but will require it not to raise them.
EU imports from Ukraine will nonetheless have to comply with EU rules on origin labeling and the
Ukrainian authorities will have to ensure that third country goods disguised as Ukrainian ones do
not enter the EU via Ukraine.
The measure also entitles the EU to reimpose tariffs if imports from Ukraine flood the EU market in
volumes that cause, or threaten to cause, serious difficulties to EU producers of the same goods.
It would apply from the date when it is finally approved until 1 November 2014, or until the EU-
Ukraine association agreement, including a deep and comprehensive trade deal which foresees
bilateral liberalization of trade, enters into force.
Next steps
The measure still requires the formal approval of the EU Council of Ministers. EU foreign policy
chief Catherine Ashton has already announced that the preferences “will start to be applied within
a few weeks”.
Procedure: Co-decision, first reading agreement
Details: http://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/ukraine/press_corner/all_news/news/2014/2014_04_03_01_en.htm
3 April 2014 - The United States - ‘No Decisions About Ukraine Without Ukraine,’ Kerry Says
After meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Paris, Secretary of State John Kerry
says they agreed that the crisis in Ukraine requires a diplomatic resolution and that further talks
must include the Ukrainians.
Kerry emphasized that “diplomacy has a critical role to play in helping the people of Ukraine to
achieve their goal of living in dignity and in a stable, peaceful and unified democracy.”
During a four-hour meeting with Lavrov, Kerry said he made it clear that the United States still
considers the Russian actions in the Crimean Peninsula “to be illegal and illegitimate.” Kerry also
said that the “Russians’ actions over the past several weeks have placed it at odds, obviously, with
the rule of law and the international community, and we still believe on the wrong side of history.”
The U.N. General Assembly, the European Union, the Organization for Security and Co-operation
in Europe and the Group of Seven major economies condemned Russia’s aggressive acts in the
Crimean region of Ukraine.
The OSCE Permanent Council decided in a special session on Ukraine March 21 to deploy an
OSCE Special Monitoring Mission of international observers to Ukraine with the aim of helping
reduce tensions and fostering peace, stability and security, OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and Swiss
Foreign Minister Didier Burkhalter said in Bern, Switzerland.
Kerry flew to Paris to meet with Lavrov at the Russian ambassador’s residence March 30 after
Russian President Vladimir Putin called President Obama to discuss the situation in Ukraine two
days earlier. During the call, Obama also urged Putin to withdraw tens of thousands of Russian
combat soldiers from the border it shares with Ukraine, according to the White House.
“The United States is consulting with Ukraine at every step of this process, and we will not accept a
path forward where the legitimate government of Ukraine is not at the table,” Kerry told journalists.
“This principle is clear: No decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine.”
Before his meeting with Foreign Minister Lavrov, Kerry spoke with Ukrainian Prime Minister
Arseniy Yatsenyuk to repeat the United States’ commitment to coordinate closely with Ukraine and
to sustain support throughout this process.
Both the United States and Russia offered suggestions on how to de-escalate the security and
political crisis in and around Ukraine, Kerry said. According to the secretary, they agreed to work
with the Ukrainian government to implement steps that they already are taking to meet certain
priorities, including these:
• Protecting the rights of national minorities.
• Securing language rights.
• Demobilizing and disarming irregular forces and what they called provocateurs.
• Ensuring an inclusive constitutional reform process.
• Holding free and fair elections monitored by the international community.
Kerry also told journalists that any real progress in Ukraine must include a pullback of the large
Russian military force massed along Ukraine’s borders. Kerry said that “these forces are creating a
climate of fear and intimidation in Ukraine.”
For its part, Lavrov told journalists, Russia seeks to create a loose federation of Ukrainian regions
where each chooses its own economic, financial, social, linguistic and religious governing models.
Kerry said it is not up to the United States and Russia to make decisions regarding federalization
for Ukraine.
“It’s up to Ukrainians, and Ukrainians will decide their future for themselves, by themselves, with
respect to what kind of definitions work for them,” Kerry said.
Details: http://usembassykyiv.wordpress.com/2014/04/03/no-decisions-about-ukraine-without-ukraine-kerry-says/
2 April 2014 - The United States / The European Union – Joint Press Statement EU-U.S. Energy Council
Following is the text of the Joint Press Statement from the EU-U.S. Energy Council meeting in
Brussels, Belgium.
Begin Text:
1. The fifth EU-U.S. Energy Council met today in Brussels, chaired by EU High
Representative/Vice President Catherine Ashton, EU Commissioner for Energy Günther Oettinger,
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, and U.S. Deputy Secretary of Energy Daniel Poneman.
Minister Ioannis Maniatis of the Greek Ministry of Environment, Energy and Climate Change
represented the rotating EU Presidency. The Energy Council, a forum on EU-U.S. energy priorities,
promotes transparent and secure global energy markets; fosters policy and regulatory cooperation
on efficient and sustainable energy use; and pursues joint research and development on clean
energy technologies. These actions boost economic growth and jobs, enhance energy security and
international cooperation, and highlight the importance and urgency of tackling global energy and
climate challenges.
2. Developments in Ukraine have brought energy security concerns to the fore and prove the need
to reinforce energy security in Europe. The EU and the United States re-affirmed their
condemnation of the illegal annexation of Crimea to Russia. The EU and United States recognised
that our energy security concerns and those of our friends and partners pose common challenges,
and are considering new collaborative efforts to address these challenges. The Council
underscored that energy relations with Russia must be based on reciprocity, transparency,
fairness, non-discrimination, openness to competition and continued cooperation to ensure a level
playing field for the safe and secure supply of energy.
3. The Council affirmed its strong support for Ukraine’s efforts to diversify its supplies of natural
gas including through the rapid enhancement of reverse flow capacities, increased gas storage
capacity, and decisive measures recently announced with the IMF to build a competitive energy
economy. The Council also welcomed the firm commitment of the Ukrainian Government to
transform its system of subsidised consumer energy prices into targeted measures that mitigate
the impact of price increases on the poor and vulnerable. The EU and the United States will work
with Ukraine and international partners to extend best international practice as Ukraine takes these
steps. The EU and the United States also welcome the determination of the Ukrainian government
to pursue energy efficiency, market transparency, and the long overdue restructuring and reform of
Naftogaz. The Council emphasised that all near-term actions to improve Ukraine’s energy security
should be pursued in the context of a strategic vision of full integration into the European energy
market. In this context, the Council reaffirmed its commitment to work with Ukraine on the
legislative and regulatory reforms necessary to realise this vision and support it along its path.
4. The Council commended the efforts of the EU and of its Member States at the European Council
of 20-21 March 2014 to address the issue of external energy dependency through a further
diversification of supplies and routes, increased energy efficiency, smart grids, improving the
opportunity for the integration of renewable energy into the network and increased production of
domestic energy resources. The Council further welcomed the prospect of U.S. LNG exports in the
future since additional global supplies will benefit Europe and other strategic partners. The Council
also welcomed the negotiations towards a comprehensive and ambitious Trans-Atlantic Trade and
Investment Partnership (TTIP) whose early conclusion would further underscore the strategic
significance of the transatlantic relationship.
5. The Council affirmed its commitment to support the EU’s efforts to rapidly complete an
integrated, common European energy market to bring the benefit of greater energy security and
more competitive energy prices to all Member States and neighbouring states in the Energy
Community. The recent adoption of EU Projects of Common Interest, along with the continuing
efforts to develop harmonised network codes, will further reduce the vulnerabilities of EU Member
States to supply disruption and diversify electricity and gas routes. The Council noted the
importance of developing interconnections to put an end to any isolation of Member States from
European gas and electricity networks by 2015. The Council further affirmed the importance of
developing all energy sources in meeting European demand, as well as the need to increase
energy efficiency efforts as a central element in European energy strategy.
6. The Council reaffirmed the importance of the Southern Gas Corridor to bring gas to Europe,
urged for timely construction of a dedicated, scalable pipeline which keeps the options open for
additional supplies, and agreed to explore investments to strengthen gas supplies to Central and
Southeast Europe. The Council also recognised the Republic of Moldova’s plans to interconnect its
gas and power systems with EU networks.
7. The Council noted the shared objectives of the EU and United States in evolving energy policies
in a manner that supports a transition to a low-carbon economy. The Council welcomed President
Obama’s Climate Action Plan and noted the work underway on the EU 2030 Climate and Energy
Package to address key sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States and the
European Union respectively. With respect to post-2020 climate action, the Council reaffirmed our
mutual determination to work towards the adoption in Paris in 2015 of a protocol, another legal
instrument or an agreed outcome with legal force under the United Nations Framework Convention
on Climate Change applicable to all Parties, to strengthen the multilateral, rules-based regime. In
that context, the Council committed to cooperate further to address the need for fuel diversification
in emerging economies and the importance of transitioning to competitive, safe and sustainable
low carbon energy systems, notably through further development and deployment of renewable
energies, energy efficiency, and deployment of carbon capture storage and utilisation. Continued
innovation and investment in these areas will bring benefits in terms of energy cost savings and
jobs, and contribute to the fight against climate change. The Council welcomed the emphasis that
many countries and international bodies, including the World Bank, the OECD and the G-20 place
on the phase-out of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. The Council underscored the importance of
addressing energy access and energy poverty issues in developing countries in ways that are
consistent with a global transition to a low carbon economy.
8. The Council underlined the importance of the continued co-operation in the Energy Council
Working Groups on Technology and Policy, in particular the work on smart grids including energy
storage, materials including critical materials, nuclear fusion and hydrogen and fuel cells in the
framework of the Technology Working Group and on energy efficiency, nuclear and offshore
safety, and unconventional hydrocarbons in the Policy Working Group, as well as under
international nuclear energy research initiatives.
9. Given the inherently global nature of energy security, the EU and the United States welcomed
the announcement that G-7 energy ministers will soon meet to discuss ways to strengthen
collective energy security and chart a path forward for collaboration. The Council encouraged the
G-7 energy ministers to discuss these and other critical energy security issues at their upcoming
meeting and to work with the EU and other strategic partners to establish an actionable,
sustainable path forward for collective energy security.
Details: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2014/04/224288.htm
2 April 2014 – OSCE – Press Release Regarding the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission in Ukraine
The Permanent Council of the OSCE has reached consensus on establishing an OSCE Special
Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, in view of the developments in the country. In this context, the
deployment of observers from various OSCE countries has already begun in Ukraine.
Retired Ambassador Ertugrul Apakan, an experienced and distinguished diplomat and former
Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey has been appointed as the Head of the
Special Monitoring Mission as of 2 April 2014. Candidates from Switzerland and the UK will be
assigned as deputies to Ambassador Apakan.
During his tenure as the Permanent Representative of Turkey to the United Nations between 2009-
2012, Ambassador Apakan has effectively represented Turkey at the UN Security Council on the
occasion of Turkey’s non-permanent membership. In this capacity, he also played a leading role in
preventive diplomacy, reconciliation and peace initiatives on UN’s agenda.
Turkey will also deploy observers in the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission in Ukraine which has
been established for an initial period of six months.
Details: http://www.mfa.gov.tr/no_-102_-2-april-2014_-press-release-regarding-the-osce-special-monitoring-mission-in-ukraine.en.mfa
1 April 2014 - The Government of Germany / The Government of France / The Government of Poland – Joint Statement on Ukraine of the Weimar Triangle Foreign Ministers Frank-Walter Steinmeier (Germany), Laurent Fabius (France), and Radoslaw Sikorski (Poland) in Weimar
We, the Foreign Ministers of the Weimar Triangle, are deeply concerned about the crisis in Europe
we are currently experiencing. Ever since our joint visit in Kyiv in February, we have jointly been
trying to find ways to de-escalate the situation.
In this context, we welcome the recent deployment of the OSCE Monitoring Mission as a first de-
escalating step in the right direction. The international observers will gain an objective picture of
the situation and will contribute to reducing tensions and fostering peace, stability and security. It is
important that the mission has full access throughout Ukraine. We will continue our endeavours to
strengthen the role of the OSCE for the resolution of the crisis.
Following the European Council meeting we invite the EU to step up efforts to use the instruments
at its disposal to help de-escalate the situation.
By Crimea’s annexation Russia violates Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity. This is a
breach of the Ukrainian constitution and of international law. We do condemn this act of aggression
unambiguously.
We jointly advocate for a common European response to this challenge. We will not accept a
policy that divides and splits Ukraine, or that seeks to transpose the action taken in Crimea to other
parts of Ukraine or other Eastern European partner countries. If Russia were to pursue this course,
we would support taking new strong action, including in the economic field.
Tomorrow NATO Foreign Ministers will extensively deal with this crisis. We, the Foreign Ministers
of the Weimar Triangle, will advocate a threefold approach for the Alliance: We should reassure
the security of our Allies, we should thoroughly analyze and readjust our relationship with Russia in
light of recent developments and we should enhance engagement with our Partners, in particular
with Ukraine in the context of the Ukrain-Nato Council.
At the same time, we acknowledge that Russia and Ukraine have always had special and strong
ties based on history, economy and culture. These ties must be developed in the spirit of good
neighbourly relations, mutual interest, genuine partnership and on the basis of Ukraine’s territorial
integrity and sovereignty.
The Eastern Partnership was established as a policy supporting democratic, economic and social
reforms in the Eastern neighbourhood. Its goal is to assist our Partners in building strong, stable,
prosperous and citizen-oriented states and to facilitate people to people contacts. This is also in
the interest of Russia.
Therefore, we will continue our policy and ensure that the Eastern Partnership countries are not
faced with a stark choice – either moving closer to the EU or working with Russia in a
comprehensive manner. Neither the Eastern Partnership of the EU nor the bilateral agreements
the EU concludes with its partners are directed against Russia.
On 21 March, the EU signed the political provisions of the Association Agreement with Ukraine,
which provide key impetus in the sphere of the development of the rule of law, and commitment
itself to sign the remainder of the Association Agreement and Deep and Comprehensive Free
Trade Area. In addition to that, in order to support the stabilisation of Ukraine’s fragile economy,
the EU will unilaterally remove custom duties and provide financial support. In order to send a
strong signal of support, consolidate international support efforts and discuss necessary reforms,
we suggest to hold a conference on gathering international support, including technical assistance
for Ukraine after the presidential elections. We would greatly appreciate Russian participation.
We welcome the staff-level agreement of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) with the
authorities of Ukraine on an economic reform program that can be supported by a two-year Stand-
By Arrangement (SBA) and look forward to its endorsement by the IMF Executive Board. We
furthermore encourage the Russian Federation to contribute to the economic stabilization of
Ukraine, in particular by facilitating trade under WTO rules and proposing fair gas prices to
Ukraine.
On 21 March, the EU also decided to advance the signature of the Association Agreements with
Georgia and Moldova. Moldova will soon profit from a visa-free regime with the EU; with Georgia
significant progress in the framework of the Action Plan on visa liberalization has already been
made. These are strong messages of our support and reflect the achievements of Moldova and
Georgia. We are ready to provide further support after signature of the Association Agreement and
to assist during the phase of implementation.
As witnesses of the 21 February agreement, we encourage the Ukrainian authorities to ensure that
key principles contained in the agreement become part of Ukrainian policy. This would also
contribute to the implementation of the Association Agreement:
First: Inclusiveness: We encourage the government in Kyiv to reach out towards all regions of
Ukraine and to ensure the representative nature and inclusiveness of governmental structures.
Second: Democracy: Presidential elections must take place on May 25, be thoroughly prepared
and be free and fair. In the same vein we would welcome a time table for the process leading to a
constitutional reform.
Third: Reconciliation: All sides must join in the effort to fully investigate all human rights violations
and acts of violence. We encourage the Ukrainian leadership to accelerate the ongoing process of
disarmament, re-establish the state monopoly on the use of force as well as distance itself from
extremist groups.
Russia now bears great responsibility. We call upon Russia to refrain from any further escalation of
the situation within Ukraine and reduce its military posture along the Russian-Ukrainian border.
The same applies to other Eastern Partnership countries.
We support continued observer missions in Ukraine in the framework of the Vienna Document and
the Open Skies Treaty, and we call on Russia to accept further missions on its territory beyond
quota obligations.
We strongly advocate a meaningful dialogue between Ukraine and Russia, as a central step for de-
escalation and the establishment of a mechanism to solve current outstanding issues related to
military, economic and social issues.
Accompanying such a dialogue, we propose EU-Russia talks with Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia
about the consequences of the EU-Association Agreements with Eastern European Partners for
both sides.
We remain available for good offices to foster the spirit of the Agreement signed on February 21 in
Kyiv.
Details: http://www.india.diplo.de/Vertretung/indien/en/__pr/Politics__News/Weimar-Triangle-Ukraine.html
1 April 2014 - The European Commission - Preparing Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova for association with EU
In the context of growing regional pressures on Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova, and delivering on
its pledge to coordinate international assistance to Ukraine, the European Commission agreed
with International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in the presence of EU Commissioner Štefan Füle on
1 April in Brussels to spearhead enhanced assistance measures to the three countries.
The assistance measures will notably support Ukraine to implement the IMF-backed reform
package agreed on 27 March; they will also support the implementation of Association
Agreements, including Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas, signed, or shortly to be signed
between the EU and Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova. Priority investment projects for the three
countries will be based on a mix of funds, subsidies and loans, from a range of different actors
(referred to as `blending`).
Through the unprecedented international assistance package being prepared for Ukraine and
measures to further assist Georgia and Moldova in near future, the EU and international partners
step up their support to these countries` efforts to reform their economies and create the conditions
for growth and employment in a competitive international market. This meeting is part of the follow
up to the European Commission`s support to Ukraine announced on 5 March for an amount of 11
billion euros. "The European Commission is preparing a large programme of 355 million euros
(grant) to support Ukraine`s transition through a State Building Contract", explained Commissioner
Füle, EU Commissioner in charge of Enlargement and European Neighbourhood Policy.
Details: http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_STATEMENT-14-90_en.htm
1 April 2014 – NATO – Statement by NATO-Ukraine Commission
We, the Foreign Ministers of the NATO-Ukraine Commission, are united in our condemnation of
Russia’s illegal military intervention in Ukraine, and Russia’s violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and
territorial integrity. We do not recognize Russia’s illegal and illegitimate “annexation” of Crimea. We
will continue to work together to reach a political and diplomatic solution which respects
international law and Ukraine’s internationally recognized borders.
We call on Russia to de-escalate by reducing its troops in Crimea to pre-crisis levels and
withdrawing them to their bases; to reduce its military activities along the Ukrainian border; to
reverse the illegal and illegitimate “annexation” of Crimea; to refrain from any further interference
and aggressive actions in Ukraine; to respect the rights of the Ukrainian population including the
Crimean Tatars; and to fulfil its international obligations and to abide by international law.
We support the deployment of an OSCE monitoring mission to Ukraine.
We commend the Armed Forces of Ukraine for their courage, discipline and restraint, in the face of
provocation.
As a tangible demonstration of Allied commitment to the Distinctive Partnership between NATO
and Ukraine, we have agreed on concrete measures to enhance Ukraine’s ability to provide for its
own security.
NATO and Ukraine will intensify cooperation and promote defence reforms through capacity
building and capability development programmes. NATO Allies will also reinforce the NATO
Liaison Office in Kyiv with additional experts.
Allies will continue working together with the Ukrainian government, the Verkhovna Rada and civil
society to strengthen civilian control over the armed forces and related security sectors.
Allies support the measures taken by the Ukrainian government to advance reforms and to
promote an inclusive political process, based on democratic values, respect for human rights,
minorities and the rule of law.
We welcome Ukraine’s signature of the political chapters of the Association Agreement with the
European Union on 21 March.
An independent, sovereign and stable Ukraine, firmly committed to democracy and the rule of law,
is key to Euro-Atlantic security. Allies firmly support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
We call on Russia to abide by these principles.
Details: http://www.nato.int/cps/en/natolive/news_108499.htm
1 April 2014 - The United States – Statement by the Press Secretary on Ukraine
The President welcomes today’s congressional action to finalize an assistance package for
Ukraine. This legislation will allow us to provide crucial support to Ukraine through loan
guarantees that will facilitate access to needed financing to Ukraine as it takes essential steps to
restore economic stability and return to growth and prosperity. The Administration supports the
targeted sanctions authority provided in the bill to impose costs on individuals and entities who are
responsible for acts of violence against the Ukrainian people or are undermining Ukraine’s peace,
stability, sovereignty, or territorial integrity. Together with our international partners, the President
will continue to build support for the Ukrainian people at this critical time. We also continue to urge
Republicans in Congress to stop blocking important IMF reforms to ensure the IMF has the
resources it needs to fulfill its mission and expand the tools available for Ukraine and other
countries.
Details: http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2014/04/01/statement-press-secretary-ukraine