BRUSSELS –– NATO allies again confirmed clearly to Russia that they stand firm in supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. A NATO diplomat confirmed to the Kyiv Post that the statement of support came during the NATO-Russia Council meeting on May 31.
“NATO allies made clear that they stand firm in their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and will not recognize Russia’s illegal and illegitimate annexation of Crimea. Allies also expressed their serious concerns over the deteriorating situation in eastern Ukraine – in particular, the spike in civilian casualties along the line of contact and the limitation of access for OSCE monitors,” the NATO official said.
The official said allies also “further condemned Russia’s construction and the partial opening of the Kerch Strait bridge, which represents another violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity” and called on Russia to use its influence over militants waging war against Ukraine in the eastern Donbas. NATO also called on Russia “to actively contribute to improving the security and humanitarian situation in eastern Ukraine.”
