Russia´s recognition of so-called republics of Donetsk and Luhansk

This evening, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced Russia will recognise the separatist regions of Donetsk and Luhansk in eastern Ukraine as so-called independent people's republics. 

Philippe Lamberts MEP, President of the Greens/EFA group comments:
"The announced recognition of the two so-called republics of Donetsk and Luhansk is an attack on Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity. We stand with Ukraine. The EU and US must respond in a coordinated and clear manner, including effective sanctions. Massive violations of international law and border shifts in Europe need to be met with a forceful reaction.” 

Ska Keller MEP, President of the Greens/EFA group comments:
“We show our solidarity with Ukraine. The Russian President is further turning the escalation spiral, trying to rewrite history into an imperial narrative. This needs to be met with a unified response. The EU should come forward with sanctions now. We are all set to lose if international rules can be broken without consequences.”