STATEMENTS BY FOREIGN MISSIONS AND REPRESENTATIONS_6-14 MARCH 2014

14 March 2014 - The Government of Canada - Canada ready to issue $220 mln to Ukraine for economy stabilization, country development

Canada is ready to provide Ukraine with financial assistance to restore its economy and stabilize

the social and political situation in the country, according to a posting on the official Web site of

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

"The support will help the new government of Ukraine stabilize its economy and deliver

programming consistent with Canadian development priorities. It will also ensure that the

government of Ukraine receives the expert guidance and advisory support it needs to manage its

economic transition, and will help enhance the capacity of the National Bank of Ukraine to

undertake banking and financial sector reforms," he said.

Any financial support provided by Canada will include the necessary safeguards and conditions to

ensure accountability and transparency around the use of those funds, reads the report.

Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird told journalists at a conference in Ottawa that the

amount of the proposed financial assistance would be $220 million.

He also noted that it would not be any particular transfer.

"Doubtless we have to work with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and monitor how these

funds will be used. Our main task is to stabilize the economic and political situation in Ukraine," he

said.

 Details:  http://en.interfax.com.ua/news/economic/196039.html

14 March 2014 - Amnesty International - Ukraine: Clashes and abductions ahead of disputed Crimea vote

International human rights monitors must immediately be deployed across Ukraine following

reports of increasing violence and disappearances ahead of Sunday’s impromptu referendum that

could lead to the secession of the southern Crimea region, said Amnesty International. 

“Parts of the country are on edge and spilling over into violence. With the referendum scheduled in

two days’ time, there is no time to lose,” said John Dalhuisen, Amnesty International’s Europe and

Central Asia Director.

“Amidst heightened tensions in the country and the now fatal violence between pro-Ukrainian and

pro-Russian groups, the need for a strong human rights monitoring mission with unimpeded

access to all parts of Ukraine, including Crimea, is critical.” 

Amnesty International’s call comes after at least one protester was killed amid violent clashes

between pro-Russian and pro-Ukrainian protesters in the eastern city of Donetsk and news of

further disappearances of activists in Crimea itself. 

Ukraine’s southern-most region has been increasingly cut off from the outside world after Russia

seized effective military control of the peninsula two weeks ago. 

Disappeared activists in Crimea

Three activists disappeared on the night of 13 March in the Crimean capital, Simferopol. On 14

March, Amnesty International spoke with the father of AutoMaydan activist, Oleksiy Gritsenko, who

disappeared together with fellow activists, Natalya Lukyanchenko and Sergiy Suprun. The three

activists had been in the region since last week. 

Oleksiy Gritsenko’s father confirmed to Amnesty International that there has been no contact with

any of them since 11pm on 13 March, following a call from Natalya Lukyanchenko to fellow

activists to say that that their car was being chased by vehicles and shots had been fired at them. 

Two of the activists’ mobile phones have been traced to the vicinity of Simferopol’s military

commissariat, which is being guarded by military officers in unmarked uniforms. The officers deny

that they are holding them. The activists’ car is also missing. 

Amnesty International is calling on the Crimean authorities to immediately locate Oleksiy

Gritsenko, Natalya Lukyanchenko and Sergiy Suprun and secure their immediate and

unconditional release. 

“Reports of the harassment and intimidation of activists and journalists by the de facto military

forces operating in Crimea are an extremely worrying development where human rights abuses are

already rife,” said John Dalhuisen. 

“We reiterate our calls for both the Crimean authorities and those in de facto military control of the

region to allow people to peacefully exercise their human rights without the threat of intimidation or

violence.” 

Lawlessness and mob violence

While the eyes of the world are on Crimea, human rights violations continue to take place

elsewhere in Ukraine. Amnesty International is also concerned that police are failing in their duty to

adequately protect those peacefully exercising their rights to freedom of assembly and expression.

On Thursday night, at least one protester was killed and many more wounded when violence

erupted between pro-Russian and pro-Ukrainian protesters in the eastern industrial city of

Donetsk. Only days earlier, an Amnesty International delegate had been in Donetsk to observe

another demonstration and noted that unless significant improvements were made to policing,

there was a risk of future casualties. A participant at Thursday’s rally told Amnesty International: “I

don’t think the police were ready or willing to protect us. After most of the participants left, we were

attacked.” Video footage taken in Donetsk on Thursday night shows how a police cordon initially

separated the opposing groups until a group of men armed with sticks, metal tubes and knives

were allowed to break the cordon and attack the pro-Ukrainian protesters. Amnesty International’s

contact reported that police told those being attacked to board a police bus, which essentially

made them easy targets, as the bus had no driver and was blocked by two cars. “Windows [on the

bus] were broken and many of us were injured. There were a couple of dozen policemen near the

bus, and hundreds further away, not intervening. The attackers were yelling ‘get on your knees, on

your knees!’ I saw one of the activists lying on the ground and bleeding. Three police officers were

standing nearby looking at him, and doing nothing for a very long time.”“What began as a peaceful

protest in Donetsk last night turned into the worst violence since the Maydan clashes brought a

change of government in Kyiv. As tensions remain high, police must respect and protect the right

of all groups to protest peacefully,” said John Dalhuisen.

 Details:  https://www.amnesty.org/en/news/ukraine-clashes-and-abductions-ahead-disputed-crimea-vote-2014-03-14 

13 March 2014 - The European Court of Human Rights - Interim measure granted in inter-State case brought by Ukraine against Russia

On 13 March 2014 the Government of Ukraine lodged an inter-State application under Article 33

(Inter-State cases) of the European Convention on Human Rights against the Russian Federation.

They also submitted a request under Rule 39 of the Rules of Court for an interim measure

indicating to the Russian Government, among other things, that it should refrain from measures

which might threaten the life and health of the civilian population on the territory of Ukraine.

Considering that the current situation gives rise to a continuing risk of serious violations of the

European Convention, the President of the Third Section has decided to apply Rule 39 of the

Rules of Court. With a view to preventing such violations and pursuant to Rule 39, the President

calls upon both Contracting Parties concerned to refrain from taking any measures, in particular

military actions, which might entail breaches of the Convention rights of the civilian population,

including putting their life and health at risk, and to comply with their engagements under the

Convention, notably in respect of Articles 2 (right to life) and 3 (prohibition of inhuman or degrading

treatment).

Both States were also asked to inform the Court as soon as possible of the measures taken to

ensure that the Convention is fully complied with.

Under Rule 39 of the Rules of Court the Court may indicate to the parties of any interim measure

which it considers should be adopted in the interests of the parties or of the proper conduct of the

proceedings before it.

The inter-State application has been registered under no. 20958/14, Ukraine v. Russia.

 Details:  http://www.echr.coe.int/Pages/home.aspx?p=home

13 March 2014 -  OECD - Statement by the OECD regarding the status of the accession process with Russia & co-operation with Ukraine

Further to a meeting of its governing Council on 12 March 2014, the OECD has postponed

activities related to the accession process of the Russian Federation to the OECD for the time

being.

At the request of the Members of the Organisation, the Secretary General has informed the

Russian Federation accordingly. 

OECD Member countries also agreed that the OECD should respond positively to Ukraine`s

request to further strengthen existing OECD-Ukraine co-operation to take advantage of the

OECD`s expertise to address the public policy challenges it faces. 

 Details: http://www.oecd.org/countries/ukraine/statement-by-the-oecd-regarding-the-status-of-the-accession-process-with-russia-and-co-operation-with-ukraine.htm

13 March 2014 - International Monetary Fund

The volume of aid that can be issued to Ukraine in the framework of cooperation with the

International Monetary Fund (IMF) will be determined after the IMF mission evaluating the

economic situation in the country completes its work in Kyiv, IMF official representative Gerry Rice

has said.

"We are expecting the IMF mission to complete its work in Kyiv soon, perhaps, tomorrow.

Afterwards the mission will provide the IMF management with its assessment and

recommendations for further actions in the sphere of economic policy, which could become the

basis for the program, including that for the amount of financial assistance," he said at a press

briefing in Washington on March 13, adding that "in the meantime, it`s early to talk about possible

figures."

As reported, the IMF mission plans to work in Ukraine on March 4-14. The fund intends to assess

the current economic situation in the country, and discuss reforms in the sphere of economic policy

that could become the basis for an IMF-supported program.

 Details:  http://en.interfax.com.ua/news/economic/195817.html  

13 March 2014 -  The European Union - Resolution: MEPs urge Russia to withdraw military forces from Ukraine

Russia must immediately withdraw all its military forces from Ukrainian territory, say MEPs in a

resolution passed on 13 March.

The resolution firmly condemns Russia’s "act of aggression in invading Crimea" and calls for the

immediate withdrawal of all military forces "present illegally on Ukrainian territory". 

Russia was in "clear breach" of international law, as set out in the UN Charter, the OSCE Helsinki

Act, the 1994 Budapest Memorandum and other conventions, and was "posing a threat to the

security of the EU", it says.

MEPs denounce the referendum to be held this Sunday in Crimea on its accession to Russia, and

the decision of its self-proclaimed authorities to declare independence, as “illegitimate and illegal".

According to Ukraine’s constitution, the Autonomous Republic of Crimea may only hold

referendums on local matters and not on modifying Ukraine’s internationally-recognised borders,

notes the text.

The text rejects Russia’s stated objective of protecting Crimea’s Russian speakers as "completely

unfounded". It also strongly condemns the "defamation of protesters against Yanukovych’s policy

as ‘fascists’ by Russian propaganda".

MEPs nonetheless call on the Ukrainian government to protect the rights of national minorities,

including Russian-speaking Ukrainians. To this end, they welcome decision by Ukraine`s acting

President to veto a bill that would have downgraded the right to use minority languages in Ukraine.

Parliament stresses the need for the EU and its member states to speak to Russia with one voice

and support the right of a united Ukraine to determine its future freely.

MEPs salute the EU Council decision of 6 March to suspend visa liberalization and partnership

talks with Russia and say that in the event of Russian annexation of Crimea the EU should quickly

impose an arms embargo, restrictions on visas, an asset freeze and measures against Russian

companies, particularly in the energy sector.

 Details: https://www.facebook.com/EUDelegationUkraine/photos/a.145962402115063.26057.126879227356714/710001752377789/?type=1&theater

13 March 2014 - The Government of Germany - GOVERNMENT STATEMENT ON UKRAINE

Appeal to Russia`s political reason

Talks - assistance - sanctions: this three-pronged approach is guiding the actions of Germany and

its partners in the crisis shaking the Crimean peninsula. In a government statement on Ukraine, the

Chancellor has called for a diplomatic solution to the crisis - in the best interests of Ukraine and the

best interests of Europe.

In 2014, the one hundredth anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War, it is becoming

particularly clear that Europe has learned from the preceding bloody century. European unification,

said the Chancellor, is the "great promise of peace, liberty and prosperity". The continent must not

now fall back into "the patterns of action of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries".

Against the law of the jungle and "might is right"

With its action in Crimea, Russia is exploiting a phase of uncertainty in Ukraine, declared Angela

Merkel in the German Bundestag. The country is openly questioning the territorial integrity of

Ukraine. "The law of the jungle, the principle that might is right is taking precedence over the

strength of the law, unilateral geopolitical interests are taking precedence over understanding and

cooperation."

This violation of international law is unacceptable. The Chancellor urged Russia to backpedal in

this conflict. An annexation of Crimea and a destabilisation of eastern Ukraine would not only

change the relationship between the EU and the G7 states and Russia. Russia would, in the final

analysis, damage itself massively "in both economic and political terms."

For diplomacy and against military action

"This conflict cannot be resolved using military means," noted the Chancellor unequivocally.

Military action, she said, is not an option.

The Chancellor, who has talked with numerous partners about the Crimean crisis in the last few

days, explained the action of the European Union in the German Bundestag. It focuses on

diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict peacefully and on assistance for Ukraine. Should Russia

refuse to cooperate, sanctions will be imposed on the country.

Russia should approve international mission

The territorial integrity of Ukraine is non-negotiable, said Angela Merkel. This must be the basis of

activities for an observer mission and/or a contact or cooperation group. Russia is called on to

approve an international mission of this sort. Moldova and Georgia too have the solidarity of the

EU.

Parallel to this, extensive assistance is to be launched for Ukraine. This was decided at the

extraordinary meeting of EU heads of state or government on 6 March 2014. "Rapid assistance is

now called for." Representatives of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the EU are already

in Ukraine.

No comparison to Kosovo

Angela Merkel rejected the comparison between the Crimea and the former Serbian province of

Kosovo as has sometimes been heard in the ongoing discussion as "shameful". The situation in

Kosovo was completely different to the current situation in Ukraine.

Neighbourhood policy, not geopolitics

It has also been decided to sign the political chapters of the Association Agreement between the

EU and Ukraine swiftly. Negotiations on visa facilitation are to progress rapidly. "Neighbourhood

policy, not geopolitics" is the watchword, reported the Chancellor. This is not directed against

anybody, she stressed. The aim is to help the Ukrainian government be a government for all

Ukrainians, to bridge divides, and to prepare free and fair elections to be held in May.

Should Russia not return to the path of cooperation, further sanctions will come into effect against

the country, reported Angela Merkel. In this case the EU foreign ministers will agree on travel bans

and asset freezes at their next meeting on 17 March.

"None of us hope that it will come to these measures," said the Chancellor. "But we are all ready to

take them and determined to do so if they become inevitable."

 Details:  http://www.bundesregierung.de/Content/EN/Artikel/2014/03/2014-03-13-regierungserklaerung-merkel-ukraine.html?nn=709674

13 March 2014 -  The Government of Germany - Policy statement by Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel on the situation in Ukraine

We are remembering the First World War, which broke out 100 years ago. It was the first great

catastrophe of the 20th century and was soon followed by a second: the outbreak of the Second

World War 75 years ago and the Shoah, that ultimate betrayal of all civilised values. That these

horrors have been followed by more than half a century of peace, freedom and prosperity in most

parts of Europe can still be considered a miracle. By embracing European integration, Europe has

shown that it has learned the lessons from its painful history, initially in western Europe, and after

1989 beyond that. This year also marks the 25 th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall and the

10th anniversary of the start of the EU’s eastward enlargement. In the 21st century, European

integration continues to represent the great promise of peace, freedom and prosperity.

The globalisation of our world – how we live, how we work and how we do business – has long

since reached every last corner. Today more than seven billion people live on our planet. They all

want to enjoy a measure of prosperity. No-one can confine themselves any longer to only watching

out for their own interests. And anyone who does so will harm these interests in the short or long

term. That applies to everyone. It applies to Germany and it applies to our neighbours. It even

applies to a large and powerful country such as the United States, as well as to China and Russia.

We are all, and indeed to an ever greater degree, interconnected – Russia, too.

This interconnection is demonstrated, inter alia, by the annual German-Russian intergovernmental

consultations, the Petersburg dialogue, the German-Russian Raw Materials Forum, more than

20 bilateral agreements between Russia and the European Union, the CBSS, our cooperation with

Russia in the G8 and the G20, the NATO-Russia Council, negotiating mandates in the Middle East

peace process and in the talks with Iran on its nuclear programme and much, much more.

All of this is globalisation in action in the 21st century. It is indicative of our acknowledgement that

all of us in Europe and beyond have to join forces to master major challenges we face. It shows

that each one of us on our own will achieve less than if we all work together.

It is in this context, fellow members of this House, first in Georgia back in 2008 and now in the

heart of Europe, in Ukraine, that we are witnessing a conflict about spheres of influence and

territorial claims, such as those we know from the 19th and 20th century but thought we had put

behind us.

It is very evident from three items of news from the last 14 days, however, that this is not the case:

Ladies and gentlemen, it is clear that Ukraine’s territorial integrity and thus its unity are being

blatantly called into question and violated.

At a time of great uncertainty in Ukraine, Russia has not proven to be a partner for stability in its

neighbouring country, with which it has close historical, cultural and economic ties. Instead, it is

exploiting its weakness. The law of the strong is being pitted against the strength of the law, and

one-sided geopolitical interests are being placed ahead of efforts to reach agreement and

cooperation.

Actions modelled on those of the 19th and 20th century are thus being carried out in the 21st century.

For let me say again: no-one, certainly not the European Union or countries such as the United

States or even Russia, none of us can confine ourselves to only looking out for our own interests in

the 21st century. Anyone who does so will harm these interests in the short or long term.

Without a doubt, what we are currently witnessing in the heart of Europe is disturbing. I fear we will

need much patience to resolve this conflict. However, we can take up this major challenge for

Europe with resolve. This is about the territorial integrity of a European neighbour, about respect

for the principles of the United Nations, about principles and methods of accommodating conflicting

interests in the 21st century.

As a comparison has been drawn with the Kosovo conflict by some during the last few days – and

perhaps such a comparison will be made again in the course of this debate – I would like to

comment briefly on this. After the international community had stood by more or less helplessly for

years watching Milosevic’s so-called ethnic cleansing wars in the territory of the former Yugoslavia,

after the sanctions and negotiations had failed to have any impact, NATO decided to launch a

military intervention without a UN mandate, also because Russia had blocked any resolution by the

UN Security Council for such a mandate. I want to state quite clearly that the situation at that time

cannot be compared in any way to that in Ukraine today.

But as I have addressed this – in my view – shameful comparison, I would like to state that the

following must apply: Russia’s actions in Ukraine undoubtedly represent a violation of fundamental

principles of international law. They would not be relativised by other international law violations.

They remain a violation of international law in the heart of Europe, and it is vital that we do not

simply return to business as usual, and indeed we have not done so.

We have to find ways to defuse this tense and dangerous situation. The conflict cannot be resolved

by military means. I say to everyone who is worried and concerned: military action is not an option

for us.

Rather, this Government, along with our partners in the European Union and the United States, is

pursuing a three-pronged political and economic approach.

First, we are working hard to establish an international observer mission and a contact or

coordination group – whatever you want to call it. We are seeking through these means to find a

political and diplomatic solution to the crisis.

The aim of the observer mission would be to examine claims and gain an objective picture of the

situation throughout Ukraine. The aim of a contact group would be for international partners to help

build a channel of communication between Moscow and Kyiv. Such talks would have to address all

the issues which led to the current conflict or which could exacerbate it further in future. Naturally,

the Crimea’s right to autonomy and language issues would also be discussed. However, one thing

must be crystal clear: Ukraine’s territorial integrity is not negotiable.

In this connection, I want to stress that other states, such as the Republic of Moldova or Georgia,

deserve our solidarity in such a situation.

Second, at their meeting on 6 March 2014, the Heads of State and Government of the European

Union decided to provide Ukraine with substantial assistance. We welcomed the support

programme totalling 11 billion euros put forward by the Commission. It also includes measures by

the European promotional banks, the EIB and the EBRD. Swift assistance is now needed. And

close coordination with the IMF is essential for EU assistance. An IMF and an EU delegation are

already in Kyiv to gain a full picture of the situation in Ukraine and to draw up initial proposals on a

possible support and reform programme.

Last week in Brussels, we decided together to sign the political section of the EU Association

Agreement with Ukraine soon, which – above all – provides key impetus in the sphere of the

development of the rule of law. The EU wants to make some of the economic advantages of the

comprehensive free trade zone set out in the Agreement available in the short term through

unilateral trade facilitations such as a reduction in duties.

In this situation it is, of course, also extremely important to foster contacts between people. We

want to move faster on the negotiations on visa facilitations for Ukraine. Similarly, with regard to

energy, the EU is prepared to assist Ukraine in strengthening its energy security, for instance by

increasing the diversity of energy sources and transport methods and by modernising the system.

However, signals of solidarity from person to person will also be very important, especially in

eastern Ukraine. Existing town twinning arrangements – of which there are a great number – and

other contacts between civil societies can play a key role in this connection.

I would like to encourage those towns and cities in Germany, but also schools, universities and

associations, with partners in Ukraine to step up contact at this particular time and see whether

there is any way to provide practical help.

We are supporting the interim government in Kyiv in its aim to be a government for all Ukrainians.

The task is to overcome divides, take the first steps towards economic stabilisation and make free

and fair elections in May possible.

Ukraine should continue to be a place in which all citizens can live peacefully together, irrespective

of what language they speak – Ukrainian, Russian, Tatar or one of the country’s other languages –

and what faith they profess.

If the road through this transition is successfully steered, the European offer of a reform

partnership can be realised, as set forth in the Association Agreement and the Deep and

Comprehensive Free-Trade Agreement. This goal is very closely interwoven with the expectations

voiced by the protesters on the Maidan: the strengthening of the rule of law, independence of the

judiciary, increased transparency, less corruption and a further dismantling of barriers to trade.

This offer of help with modernisation is a Neighbourhood Policy approach, not a geopolitical one. It

is not directed against anyone.

I repeat in this context what I said here in the Bundestag on 18 November last year in my policy

statement on the EU Eastern Partnership Summit, namely that neither the Eastern Partnership nor

the bilateral agreements the EU wants to conclude with its partners are directed against Russia.

We must – as I said on that occasion – continue to work to ensure that the Eastern Partnership

countries are not faced with a stark either/or choice – either moving closer to the EU or responding

to Russia’s efforts to forge a closer partnership with them.

Events in recent weeks seem to be blowing this aside. Nevertheless, the correct thing remains not

to leave anything untried to continue to pursue this course, for which the EU has tabled concrete

proposals.

By the way, Russia too has benefited from the strengthening and modernising of our eastern

partners’ economies. And so naturally we feel we must discuss with Russia any supposed

disadvantages for Ukrainian-Russian trade arising from Ukraine’s association with the EU. This

includes working together with Russia to find ways to resolve outstanding conflicts in countries

which are neighbours to us both.

This would also include talking with Russia about a new economic agreement.

Third, in the event, however, that Russia is not prepared to return to the path of cooperation and

law, in the event that Russia remains unprepared to help deescalate the situation, the Heads of

State and Government of the European Union decided at their meeting in Brussels last week on

three steps that would be taken.

The first step is that we have suspended negotiations with Russia on visa matters as well as on a

new agreement on the framework for EU-Russia relations. If negotiations do not start with Russia

in the next few days – negotiations which produce results, not negotiations playing for time – the

Foreign Ministers of the EU member states will move to the second stage and agree on further

measures at their Council meeting this coming Monday, 17 March. These measures will include

travel bans, asset freezes and the cancellation of the EU-Russia summit.

Fellow members of this House, I think I speak for all of you in taking this opportunity to thank our

Foreign Minister, Frank-Walter Steinmeier. I thank him for his tireless efforts in seemingly endless,

unfortunately also frustrating, talks, and for his unwavering commitment to our shared resolve to

find a way out of the crisis.

It goes without saying that the next regular Council meeting of Heads of State and Government will

of course be looking at the latest developments in Ukraine as well as the other points on the long-

planned agenda on climate and energy issues.

In the event that Russia further destabilises the situation in Ukraine – we are seeing worrying

developments in eastern Ukraine too – the Heads of State and Government decided at their

meeting on 6 March on a third round of measures we would be ready to take. These could affect

economic cooperation with Russia in many different ways.

To make it absolutely clear: none of us wants these measures to be taken. But we would all be

ready and determined to take them if they become unavoidable.

All of us – that is the 28 member states of the European Union in very close coordination with our

transatlantic partners and within the G7. Last week we decided in the G7 to suspend our

participation in the preparations for the G8 Summit planned for June until the restoration of an

atmosphere conducive to sensible talks in the G8 framework.

If Russia continues along its course of the past few weeks, it will not only be a catastrophe for

Ukraine. We would not only regard it as a threat as neighbouring states of Russia. It would not only

change the relationship of the European Union as a whole with Russia. No, it would, I am

absolutely convinced, hugely damage Russia not least of all, both economically and politically.

Because, and I cannot stress this often or firmly enough, the clock cannot be turned back. Conflicts

of interest at the heart of the Europe of the 21st century can only be successfully resolved if we do

not resort to the solutions of the 19th and 20th centuries.

They can be resolved only if we apply the principles and instruments of our age, the 21st century.

Equally, geopolitical strength can only be developed if we use the principles and instruments of our

age. This presents so many more opportunities than threats for all of us in Europe and the world,

including Russia. This is why the Federal Government takes a three-pronged approach – talks,

assistance and sanctions – with Germany taking each new step in the current crisis in close

coordination with our partners. I ask for your support in this.

Thank you very much.

 Details:  http://www.bundesregierung.de/Content/EN/Reden/2014/2014-03-13-regierungserklaerung-ukraine_en.html?nn=709674

12 March 2014 - The United States - Remarks by President Obama and Ukraine Prime Minister Yatsenyuk after Bilateral Meeting

THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  It is a pleasure to welcome Prime Minister Yatsenyuk to the Oval Office, to

the White House. 

I think all of us have seen the courage of the Ukrainian people in standing up on behalf of

democracy and on the desire that I believe is universal for people to be able to determine their own

destiny.  And we saw in the Maidan how ordinary people from all parts of the country had said that

we want a change.  And the Prime Minister was part of that process, showed tremendous courage,

and upheld the principles of nonviolence throughout the course of events over the last several

months.

Obviously, the Prime Minister comes here during a very difficult time for his country.  In the

aftermath of President Yanukovych leaving the country, the parliament, the Rada, acted in a

responsible fashion to fill the void, created a inclusive process in which all parties had input,

including the party of former President Yanukovych.  They have set forward a process to stabilize

the country, take a very deliberate step to assure economic stability and negotiate with the

International Monetary Fund, and to schedule early elections so that the Ukrainian people, in fact,

can choose their direction for the future.  And the Prime Minister has managed that process with

great skill and great restraint, and we’re very much appreciative of the work that he has done. 

The most pressing challenge that Ukraine faces at the moment, however, is the threat to its

territorial integrity and its sovereignty.  We have been very clear that we consider the Russian

incursion into Crimea outside of its bases to be a violation of international law, of international

agreements of which Russia is a signatory, and a violation of the territorial integrity and sovereignty

of Ukraine.  And we have been very firm in saying that we will stand with Ukraine and the Ukrainian

people in ensuring that that territorial integrity and sovereignty is maintained. 

I think we all recognize that there are historic ties between Russia and Ukraine, and I think the

Prime Minister would be the first one to acknowledge that.  And I think the Prime Minister and the

current government in Kyiv has recognized and has communicated directly to the Russian

Federation their desire to try to manage through this process diplomatically.  But what the Prime

Minister I think has rightly insisted on is, is that they cannot have a country outside of Ukraine

dictate to them how they should arrange their affairs.  And there is a constitutional process in place

and a set of elections that they can move forward on that, in fact, could lead to different

arrangements over time with the Crimean region, but that is not something that can be done with

the barrel of a gun pointed at you.

And so Secretary Kerry is in communications with the Russian government and has offered to try

to explore with his counterpart, Foreign Minister Lavrov, a diplomatic solution to this crisis.  We are

in close communication with the Ukrainian government in terms of how we might proceed going

forward.  But we will continue to say to the Russian government that if it continues on the path that

it is on then not only us, but the international community -- the European Union and others -- will be

forced to apply a cost to Russia’s violations of international law and its encroachments on Ukraine. 

There’s another path available, and we hope that President Putin is willing to seize that path.  But if

he does not, I’m very confident that the international community will stand strongly behind the

Ukrainian government in preserving its unity and its territorial integrity.

Let me just make two final points.  Obviously, because of the political turmoil, the economic

situation in Ukraine has become more challenging, not less.  And that’s why I’m very proud that not

only as critical members of the International Monetary Fund, the IMF, we are working with the

Prime Minister and his team in a package that can help to institute necessary reforms inside of the

Ukraine, but also help to stabilize the situation so that people feel confident that in their daily lives

they can meet their basic necessities.

We’re also asking Congress to act promptly to deliver on an aid package, including a $1 billion loan

guarantee that can help smooth the path for reform inside of Ukraine and give the Prime Minister

and his government the capacity to do what they need to do as they are also organizing an election

process.  So I would just ask both Democrats and Republicans, who I know are unified in their

support of Ukraine, to move quickly to give us the support that we need so that we can give the

Ukrainian people the support that they need.

And then, finally, Mr. Prime Minister, I would ask that you deliver a message on behalf of the

American people to all the Ukrainian people, and that is that we admire their courage; we

appreciate their aspirations.  The interests of the United States are solely in making sure that the

people of Ukraine are able to determine their own destiny.  That is something that here in the

United States we believe in deeply.  I know it’s something that you believe in deeply as well.  And

you can rest assured that you will have our strong support as you move forward during these

difficult times. 

Thank you.

PRIME MINISTER YATSENYUK:  Thank you, Mr. President.  And we highly appreciate the

support that you have given to the Ukrainian people.  And my country feels that the United States

stands by the Ukrainian people. 

Mr. President, it’s all about the freedom.  We fight for our freedom.  We fight for our independence. 

We fight for our sovereignty.  And we will never surrender. 

My country has faced a number of challenges.  The military one is a key challenge today, and we

urge Russia to stick to its international obligations, to pull back its military into barracks, and to start

the dialogue with no guns, with no military, with no tanks, but with the diplomacy and political tools.

On behalf of my government, I would like to reiterate that we are absolutely ready and open for

talks with the Russian Federation.  We adhere to all international obligations.  And we as the state

of Ukraine will fulfill all bilateral and multilateral international treaties. 

On the economic side, Mr. President, we highly appreciate the support of the United States and the

decision to guarantee $1 billion loan for the Ukrainian economy.  You know that we resumed talks

with the IMF.  We do understand that these are tough reforms, but these reforms are needed for

the Ukrainian state.  And we are back on track in terms of delivering real reforms in my country. 

As I already informed you, probably in the nearest future, next week or in 10 days, Ukraine is to

sign a political part of  -- association agreement with the European Union, and we want to be very

clear that Ukraine is and will be a part of the Western world, and our Russian partners have to

realize that we are ready to make a new type or to craft a new type of our relationship where

Ukraine is a part of the European Union, but Ukraine is a good friend and partner of Russia.

So much will depend on whether Russia wants to have this talk and whether Russia wants to have

Ukraine as a partner or as a subordinate.  As I already indicated, we will never surrender and we

will do everything in order to preserve peace, stability, and independence of my country.  And we

appreciate your personal support, the support of your government, support of the American people

to the Ukrainian people. 

Thank you, Mr. President.

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Mr. Prime Minister, thank you very much.

PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Julie, we completely reject a referendum patched together in a few weeks

with Russian military personnel basically taking over Crimea.  We reject its legitimacy.  It is

contrary to international law.  It is contrary to the Ukrainian constitution. 

I know that we`ve heard from the Russian Federation this notion that these kinds of decisions are

often made in other places, and they’ve even analogized it to Scotland or other situations of that

sort.  In each of those cases that they’ve cited, decisions were made by a national government

through a long, lengthy, deliberative process.  It`s not something that happens in a few days, and

it`s not something that happens with an outside army essentially taking over the region.

As you just heard the Prime Minister indicate, the people of Ukraine recognize historic ties with the

people of Russia.  The Prime Minister you just heard say, repeat what he said often, which is

they’re prepared to respect all international treaties and obligations that they are signatories to,

including Russian basing rights in Crimea.  The issue now is whether or not Russia is able to

militarily dominate a region of somebody else’s country, engineer a slapdash referendum, and

ignore not only the Ukrainian constitution but a Ukrainian government that includes parties that are

historically in opposition with each other -- including, by the way, the party of the previous

President.

So we will not recognize, certainly, any referendum that goes forward.  My hope is, is that as a

consequence of diplomatic efforts over the next several days that there will be a rethinking of the

process that`s been put forward. 

We have already put in place the architecture for us to apply financial and economic consequences

to actions that are taken.  But our strong preference is to resolve this diplomatically.  And as you

heard the Prime Minister say, this idea that somehow the Ukrainian people are forced to choose

between good relations with the West or good relations with Russia, economic ties with the West

or economic ties with Russia, is the kind of zero-sum formulation that in the 21st century, with a

highly integrated, global economy, doesn’t make any sense and is not in the interests of the

Ukrainian people. 

I actually think, in the end, it`s not in the interests of Russia either.  Russia should be thinking

about how can it work with Ukraine to further strengthen its economic ties and trade and

exchanges with Europe.  That will make Russia stronger, not weaker.  But obviously Mr. Putin has

some different ideas at this point. 

We do not know yet what our diplomatic efforts will yield, but we`ll keep on pressing.  In the

meantime, the main message I want to send is that we are highly supportive of a government in

Kyiv that is taking on some very tough decisions, is committed to law and order, inclusivity,

committed to the rights of all Ukrainian people, and is committed to fair and free elections that

should settle once and for all any questions that there may be about what’s transpired since former

President Yanukovych left the country.  

And the most important thing to remember is this is up to the Ukrainian people.  It`s not up to the

United States.  It`s not up to Russia.  It`s up to the Ukrainian people to make a decision about how

they want to live their lives.  That`s what all of us should support.  And certainly that`s the reason

why I`m so pleased to have the Prime Minister here today. 

 Details:  http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/obama-yatsenyuk-03122014.html

12 March 2014 - G-7 - Statement of G-7 Leaders on Ukraine

We, the leaders of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States,

the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission, call on the

Russian Federation to cease all efforts to change the status of Crimea contrary to Ukrainian law

and in violation of international law. We call on the Russian Federation to immediately halt actions

supporting a referendum on the territory of Crimea regarding its status, in direct violation of the

Constitution of Ukraine.

Any such referendum would have no legal effect. Given the lack of adequate preparation and the

intimidating presence of Russian troops, it would also be a deeply flawed process which would

have no moral force. For all these reasons, we would not recognize the outcome.

Russian annexation of Crimea would be a clear violation of the United Nations Charter; Russia’s

commitments under the Helsinki Final Act; its obligations to Ukraine under its 1997 Treaty of

Friendship, Cooperation and Partnership; the Russia-Ukraine 1997 basing agreement; and its

commitments in the Budapest Memorandum of 1994. In addition to its impact on the unity,

sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, the annexation of Crimea could have grave

implications for the legal order that protects the unity and sovereignty of all states. Should the

Russian Federation take such a step, we will take further action, individually and collectively.

We call on the Russian Federation to de-escalate the conflict in Crimea and other parts of Ukraine

immediately, withdraw its forces back to their pre-crisis numbers and garrisons, begin direct

discussions with the Government of Ukraine, and avail itself of international mediation and

observation offers to address any legitimate concerns it may have. We, the leaders of the G-7,

urge Russia to join us in working together through diplomatic processes to resolve the current

crisis and support progress for a sovereign independent, inclusive and united Ukraine. We also

remind the Russian Federation of our decision to suspend participation in any activities related to

preparation of a G-8 Sochi meeting until it changes course and the environment comes back to

where the G-8 is able to have a meaningful discussion.

 Details: https://www.facebook.com/EUDelegationUkraine/photos/a.145962402115063.26057.126879227356714/709458072432157/?type=1&theater

12 March 2014 - The Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly (PACE) - PACE President Anne Brasseur discusses Ukraine with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon

President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, Anne Brasseur, met with UN

Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to discuss the crisis developing between Russia and Ukraine over

Crimea.

“We spoke about the important roles of the UN and the Council of Europe in keeping avenues of

dialogue open between the parties,” said Ms Brasseur. “Rhetoric should not be allowed to rule the

day. We agreed that both organisations must use their greatest strengths – namely the power of

diplomacy – to bring the parties to the table to find solutions.”

A number of other issues were discussed, the President said, including the consequences of the

Arab Spring, the crisis in Syria and the backlash in Europe against migrants and Roma.

Ms Brasseur also highlighted the importance of not diluting human rights standards, stressing that

Council of Europe conventions – such as the European Convention against Trafficking and the

European Convention on Preventing Violence against Women and Domestic Violence – were open

to everyone, and that lower standards should not be negotiated.

12 March 2014 - The European Commission - Crimea referendum: major threat to the stability of the European borders

Closing remarks by Commissioner Füle at the European Parliament debate on `Invasion of Ukraine

by Russia`

`Very nice to have among us Mr Petro Poroshenko and his delegation today.

I would like to make four points in connection to the debate:

Let me under the first point recall that the referendum organised in Crimea on Sunday infringes in

various sense on international law as regards the state sovereignty and the inviolability and

territorial integrity as well as the Ukrainian constitution. 

It poses a major threat to the stability of the borders in Europe. The EU condemns the

circumstances and the actual proposed question of referendum which we consider illegal

illegitimate and its outcome invalid.

Furthermore the proposed Russian bill foreseeing even easier annexation of foreign territories on

the basis of an alleged threat to Russian minority there and without the a corresponding treaty with

the relevant neighbouring state will likewise go against international laws and principles. But is not

only about Crimea, this is the most serious challenge to the Helsinki process we have seen so far.

And that is why what is going on in Crimea is happening much more closer to us than many of us,

many of you are ready to accept.

Second – let us do everything in our power to help the Russian leaders not to make yet another

grave mistake. A mistake his successors and history teaches us certain lessons would apologise

for it, as they already did, the mistake that would turn the multipolar world into a zero polar world

where only one rule applies that there are no rules.

Three - let us support and help Ukraine, not only in their measured reaction so far but also in that

country becoming a democratic country, with accountable government, free of corruption, with

justice for all, with active involvement of civil society, established guaranteed rights of all citizens

and all minorities.

Four – let us not forget about the citizens of Moldova and Georgia and many others in Eastern

European region for whom the values and principles the EU is based on are what they aspire for. 

To conclude: the Council, the Commission and after this debate I strongly believe also this House

are principled, responsible and united in their readiness to adopt concrete measures but also

principled responsible and united in offering in parallel the political dialogue to de-escalate the

situation and find peaceful solution because that is the way forward.`

 Details: https://www.facebook.com/EUDelegationUkraine/photos/a.145962402115063.26057.126879227356714/709430212434943/?type=1&theater

12 March 2014 - The European Commission - Introductory statement by President Barroso on Ukraine

Mr. President,

Honourable members,

Very serious concerns remain over the situation in Ukraine. And I would like to start by saying how

grateful we are for the constant attention that this Parliament has been giving to this most

important crisis. I know that the Parliament, as an institution, and many of you in this room have

been deploying considerable energy and time to help find a solution. And I hope that we can put all

our efforts along the same lines to support Ukraine, a European country.

Ukraine was also subject of an extraordinary meeting of Heads of State and Government last

week, also attended partly by the Ukrainian Prime-Minister Yatseniuk. Today I want to share with

you the results of that meeting, and specifically what the European Commission has been doing to

support Ukraine in these very challenging times, not only supporting the legitimate aspirations of

the Ukrainians but also giving our best for regional and international peace.

The developments which started with the people of Ukraine expressing a clear wish to take their

future into their own hands, have called for a robust and united European response. The present

situation directly challenges us in many ways and forms. It challenges our conscience as

individuals. It challenges our unity as Europeans. It challenges our policies as decision makers.

And it challenges some of the values that we hold dear, such as peace and democracy.

This is, in a way, a test of our Union. And the outcome of the current situation will greatly impact in

the geopolitical configuration of our continent for the years to come.

What happened in Crimea was an unprovoked and unacceptable violation of Ukrainian sovereignty

and its territorial integrity.

In the aftermath of this violation, together with other G7 leaders, the President of the European

Council and myself, on behalf of the European Union, have strongly and unequivocally condemned

this action on behalf of the European Union.

Today, at 14:00 Central European Time, we will release another statement that will leave no doubt

about the determination of the G-7 countries and the European Union. We call on the Russian

Federation to cease all efforts to annexe Ukraine`s autonomous Republic of Crimea.

Honourable Members,

The present situation remains very tense, so we need to take a very principled but also a very

responsible approach. The Ukrainian people have already shed too much blood in this process. No

more lives should be put at risk.

Our immediate goal and objective should be to de-escalate the situation and find a peaceful

solution to the current crisis, in full respect of international law. Any attempt to legitimise a

referendum in Crimea is contrary to the Ukrainian constitution and international law and quite

clearly illegal.

We have been proposing to Russia the possibility of direct talks through international mechanisms

available, including a possible contact group, in full respect of the principles of unity, sovereignty

and territorial integrity of Ukraine. So far, unfortunately, as you know, to no avail. The High

Representative/ Vice-President Catherine Ashton remains in constant contact with her

counterparts on this front and I would like to praise her role.

Meanwhile, however, the financial and economic situation has already deteriorated dramatically,

and we have not lost any time in mobilising a support package to help stem the tide and help

Ukraine to stabilise its economic and financial situation.

I am proud that the Commission was quickly able to propose an overall support package of at least

€11 billion from the European budget and European Union-based international financial institutions

and this for the short and medium term. This was the proof that we can react quickly; that we can

show solidarity; that we can rise to the challenge.

And as you know, this package was welcomed by our Member States in the European Council

and, specifically, the Prime Minister of Ukraine expressed his gratitude for this initiative.

Some of the measures can be put into practice immediately. And indeed, just yesterday,

Commisioner De Gucht and myself publicly presented a Commission proposal to frontload

unilaterally the trade parts of the Association Agreement, so that Ukraine can benefit from tariff

reductions and tariff rate quotas even before the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area is

fully applied. This will save the Ukrainian economy €500 million a year in tariff cuts. I hope we can

count on your, and the Council`s, active commitment to fast-track the approval process.

We have also immediately dispatched a mission from our services to identify the economic and

financial needs of the Ukrainian authorities. And I can announce that the Commission will propose

next week, the 19th March, macro financial assistance of an additional €1 billion.

This amount, will bring our total macro financial assistance to 1.6 billion, and is a very concrete

demonstration of our solidarity to help Ukraine face the short term difficulties. However, it is crucial

that this is part of a wider international effort where also other international financial institutions

such as the IMF and the World Bank, as well as our Member States bilateraly and international

partners, can participate. I would like to thank Olli Rehn and his services for moving quickly on this.

And I would like to have a special word of thanks to Stefan Füle for his constant and strong

engagement in this file.

At the same time it is equally crucial to underline that this aid package is not a quick fix and needs

to be complemented by, on the other side, a reform-oriented and inclusive Ukrainian government,

committed to fixing the current state of their financial system and rebuilding the economic

foundations of the country, during both the current transition phase and in the medium to long term.

At the Summit meeting last week, we also decided that we will sign the political chapters of the

Association agreement before the Presidential elections that will take place in May. This will seal

the political association of Ukraine with the European Union, as was wished for by its people in

such a clear manner during these past months and can naturally be followed by the entry into force

of the remaining parts of the Association Agreement/DCFTA post presidential elections. We also

reconfirmed our intention to sign Association Agreements/DCFTAs with Georgia and Moldova

before the end of August.

Honourable members,

The European Union has been pro-active and united throughout this crisis, and I am sure this will

also be the case when the European Council discusses the next steps next week.

This is vital for Ukraine`s stability and prosperity, and it is vital for our credibility. The ball is

currently in Russia`s court and, as we speak, the diplomatic, political and military situation is not

yet moving in the right direction.

Last week`s meeting of Heads of State and Government has taken a gradual approach to the

measures we are ready to take in response to the current situation, so as to send an unambiguous

signal that going further down this path will have consequences, but at the same time preventing

further entrenching the conflict from our side.

Our dialogue on visa facilitation and liberalisation, the discussions on the New Agreement and the

preparations for the G8 meeting in Sochi have already been suspended. If meaningful negotiations

do not begin within the next few days and produce results within a limited timeframe, this will

trigger additional measures. And a further deterioration of the situation could lead to far reaching

consequences, which I sincerely hope can be avoided.

Honourable Members,

I have been working together with the Commission and also with the Member States for the last 10

years to build a constructive relationship with Russia, while supporting our neighbours` efforts and

sovereign choices to reform, to modernise and build closer relations with the European Union.

Our relationship with our Eastern partners does not have to be an exclusive one. Our model of

engagement is that of open regionalism, and not of autarchic self-entrenchment. We are not

asking, not even suggesting to our partners from the Eastern Neighbourhood, to turn their backs

on Russia. On the contrary, we encourage them to have good neighbourly relations, to enhance

their traditional trade ties. But at the same time Russia needs to accept fully the right of these

countries to decide their own future and the nature of relations they chose to have with Russia.

The page of last century`s history should be turned and not re-written. I believe in a European

continent where the rule of law prevails over the rule of force, where sovereignty is shared and not

limited, where the logic of cooperation replaces the logic of confrontation. We don`t need new Cold

Wars. And we certainly do not want them.

Security does not come from segregation, separating communities, building fences, but by

embracing differences and diversity. Ukraine should not be a border between neighbours that don`t

speak to each other, but a bridge where they can meet.

Ukraine should not be seen as a problem for Europe, but an asset for a more united European

continent.

On the basis of these principles, I think we can say that a united, inclusive, stable and prosperous

Ukraine can only be of benefit to all its neighbours and partners. The European Union remains

committed to that goal. To Ukraine`s unity and to European peace.

I thank you for your attention.

 Details:  http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_SPEECH-14-212_en.htm

12 March 2014 – NATO - NATO deploys surveillance planes to Ukraine border

NATO deployed two surveillance planes to fly over Poland and Romania on Wednesday to monitor

the crisis in neighboring Ukraine.

The military alliance said two AWACS, or Airborne Warning And Control System, reconnaissance

planes took off from bases in Germany and Britain.

The surveillance flights won`t leave the airspace of its member nations - thus not crossing either

into Ukrainian or Russian airspace, a spokesman for NATO`s operational headquarters said in

Belgium.

"The planes can observe over 300,000 square kilometers (115,000 square miles) and will primarily

be looking on air activity and the sea," Lt. Col. Jay Janzen said, adding that one AWACS aircraft

already went on a surveillance mission to Romania on Tuesday and that more missions were being

planned.

"Our flights will not leave NATO airspace," Janzen said. "Regardless, we can observe, we can look

a very long way."

NATO`s 28 member states decided Monday to intensify the assessment of the possible threat the

Ukrainian crisis poses to the alliance by sending AWACS planes. The decision comes after

deployments of U.S. fighter planes to eastern European nations bordering Russia, such as Poland

and Lithuania.

Janzen said the flights had already been planned as training missions before NATO`s decision, but

more planes will be added to the exercises in the coming days.

The plane flying out of the German base to Romania was an E-3A AWACS and the plane leaving

Britain for Poland was an E-3B AWACS, Janzen said.

 Details: http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/E/EU_NATO_UKRAINE?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT

12 March 2014 - The United States - U.S. Concerned about Russian Involvement in Roadblocks on Crimea

United States Mission to the OSCE

Vienna, Austria

PRESS RELEASE

 

The U.S. Mission to the OSCE today expressed its deep concern over indications of the

involvement of Russian military personnel in the establishment of roadblocks on the Crimean

peninsula.  Evidence of the Russian military presence was cited in a report submitted by an OSCE

military observer team which was repeatedly prevented from entering Crimea from March 5-10.

 

The passage into Crimea of the multinational delegation sent to Ukraine under the Vienna

Document Chapter III was blocked five times in multiple locations by heavily armed guards lacking

clear national identification.

 

"This report adds to our deep concerns and clearly suggests direct involvement by the Russian

federation and its agents in preventing impartial, unarmed observers from doing the work they are

supposed to do," U.S. Ambassador to the OSCE Daniel Baer said today.  "Russian

encouragement of and support for illegal checkpoints is unhelpful."

 

The conclusion of the observer team’s report states, “the [Ukrainian Police escort] and Team were

consistently refused access at gunpoint and therefore were not able to dispel concerns over the

reported unusual Russian Federation military activity.  However, the Team observations produced

significant evidence of equipment consistent with the presence of Russian Federation military

personnel [in the vicinity of] the various roadblocks encountered during the period of the

observation.”

 

Among the evidence cited in the report were “[Russian] pattern uniforms and combat equipment

without identifying patches,” “trucks bearing license plate numbers associated with Black Sea

Fleet,”  and armored personnel carriers, “one of which is a naval infantry version displaying

[Russian] markings.”

  Details: http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/osce-ukraine-03122014.html

12 March 2014 – OSCE - Swiss OSCE Chair and Russian President discuss ways out of crisis regarding Ukraine

OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and Swiss Foreign Minister Didier Burkhalter discussed the situation

regarding Ukraine in a phone conversation with the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir

Putin, this afternoon. They talked about possible ways to overcome the current crisis.

In their discussion, Burkhalter and Putin focused on the creation of an international contact group

on Ukraine and potential modalities for its establishment; they were also exchanging views on

an OSCE monitoring mission, while Burkhalter stressed the importance of an early consensus on

its deployment in order to contribute to an improved security situation also for minorities.

Furthermore, Burkhalter underlined that processes on regional autonomy and de-centralization

within a state always must be seen in a long-term perspective.

Burkhalter and Putin agreed to stay in touch and continue their conversation on ways out of the

crisis regarding Ukraine.

 Details:  http://www.osce.org/cio/116371

12 March 2014 – OSCE - OSCE refuses to monitor `illegal` Crimean referendum

The upcoming referendum in Crimea is illegal as it contravenes the Ukrainian constitution, OSCE

Chairman-in-Office, Swiss Foreign Minister Didier Burkhalter said.

 Details:  http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine/osce-refuses-to-monitor-illegal-crimean-referendum-339092.html

12 March 2014 - The Government of Belarus / Russian Federation - Lukashenko, Putin say Ukrainian situation must meet people`s interest

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has discussed the Ukrainian situation with his

Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on the phone, the Belarusian presidential press service told

Interfax.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/politics/lukashenko-putin-say-ukrainian-situation-must-meet-peoples-interest-339090.html

12 March 2014 - The Government of Poland / The Government of France - Polish-French talks on situation in Ukraine

  The violation of Ukraine`s territorial integrity, the consequences for the security in the region and

the response of the international community were the key points of a conversation between

Undersecretary of State Bogusław Winid and French Secretary General for Defence and National

Security Francis Delon. The meeting was held in Warsaw on March 11th.

Presenting possible scenarios of future developments, Deputy Minister Winid remarked that

providing support to Ukraine and securing the international presence there are of fundamental

importance now and in the near future. He emphasised that the international community must

dissuade Russia from taking similar actions in the future. "We need to strengthen political relations

and economic integration with Georgia and the Republic of Moldova as a signal of our resolve and

loyalty towards those countries," pointed out the deputy chief of Polish diplomacy.

Secretary Delon expressed his regret over Russia`s throwing away her chances of building a

partnership with the transatlantic community, and stressed the significance of maintaining Europe`s

unity. "Our goal should be to make Russia aware that the price it will ultimately have to pay for

actions which breach the foundations of international law will be too high," he said. Secretary

Delon also underlined Russia`s international isolation.

The interlocutors agreed that the key role the Weimer Triangle has played in efforts to solve the

conflict in Ukraine makes this grouping stronger politically and practically. The officials also

discussed further co-operation in the framework of the Polish-French strategic dialogue, and the

situation in other trouble regions, including the Republic of Mali and the Central African Republic.

 Details:  http://www.msz.gov.pl/en/news/polish_french_talks_on_situation_in_ukraine_

12 March 2014 - The Government of Germany / The Government of Poland - Agreement over action in Ukraine

In the Crimean crisis it is absolutely crucial that the EU demonstrate unity and that the member

states act in concert, stressed Chancellor Angela Merkel and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk in

Warsaw. Their talks were dominated by concerns over the situation in Ukraine.

The current situation, especially in Crimea, was the main item on the agenda of the cordial and in-

depth meeting of the two heads of government. Angela Merkel reported that she agrees completely

with Prime Minister Donald Tusk in his assessment that this is an extremely serious conflict within

Europe. They discussed joint strategies and possible solutions.

Strategies for dealing with the crisis

Angela Merkel listed three main thrusts of action: assistance for Ukraine, the willingness to enter

into talks, and – should negotiations fail to bring about a solution - sanctions.

To support Ukraine, the political chapters of the Association Agreement with the EU are to be

signed rapidly, possibly at the next meeting of the European Council on 20 and 21 March. In this

context, Angela Merkel welcomed the fact that the European Commission is looking to ease trade

restrictions on products imported from Ukraine.

With a view to establishing a contact group, much has been attempted to facilitate talks between

Russia, the USA and the European Union, noted the Chancellor. It must, however, be said that no

progress has been made. The logical consequence is that preparations must now begin for a

second phase of sanctions.

De-escalation is still the goal

"We obviously hope for de-escalation," said Angela Merkel. If this fails to materialise, though,

which we must expect at this moment in time, the EU foreign ministers will implement the first

decisions when they meet on Monday. The topic will also be on the agenda of the coming

European Council meeting.

"I think we are going to need stamina here," underscored the Chancellor. The conflict can only be

resolved with unified European action. Military action is not an option in the 21st century. The

Chancellor did, however, state quite clearly, "We are not going to sidestep conflicts".

Sanctions under consideration

We will be seeking discussion and negotiation, said Angela Merkel, but at the same time, "We will

not only be thinking about sanctions, but considering carefully the various stages". The EU has

already decided on this course of action should the situation escalate.

Discussion and negotiation are the way to solve problems, she said. It must, however, be noted

that this has not worked as we had hoped. The EU has taken precautions, and if necessary "it will

have to go ahead with the second stage".

The action will involve freezing the assets of certain groups and imposing travel bans. The

technical preparations are already underway. The EU foreign ministers will state clearly at their

meeting on Monday "who will be affected" announced the Chancellor.

The G7 states also reserve the right to express their position on the Crimean crisis. Donald Tusk

added that the Euro-Atlantic union is the key to the success of all future activities.

For secure energy supplies in Europe

Energy policy was another focus of the talks against the backdrop of the next European Council

meeting. The Chancellor urged greater unity on this issue. Progress has been made to the extent

that connectivity has been improved among member states, said Angela Merkel. "But there can be

no doubt that there is still much to do."

The Chancellor was pleased that an ambitious working programme in the field of climate change

mitigation is to be implemented with Poland by the end of the year. Although the situation in the

two countries is quite different, both have learned to deal with this, she said. "I believe that

Germany and Poland can act together here," declared the Chancellor.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk had proposed joint energy imports. To this end the companies

involved must come together around the table.

Cordial bilateral relations

The two heads of government had found joint positions on all problems currently on the table,

reported Angela Merkel. This reflects the excellent relations that Germany and Poland enjoy.

The Chancellor’s trip to Warsaw, originally planned for 8 January, had to be postponed as a result

of her skiing accident. The delay only made her appreciate the visit all the more, said Angela

Merkel.

Angela Merkel last met her Polish opposite number on 31 January 2014 in Berlin. Even then the

situation in Ukraine was at the top of the agenda.

German-Polish relations were long overshadowed by historical factors, but since 1989 they have

become consistently closer, as can be seen by the extent to which their economies are interlinked

and the large number of cultural projects. Their broadly similar interests are also reflected in their

partnerships within the EU and NATO. Sine 1997 annual government consultations have been

held.

 Details:   http://www.bundesregierung.de/Content/EN/Reiseberichte/2014/2014-03-12-merkel-warschau_en.html?nn=709674

11 March 2014 -  The European Commission

European Commission proposes temporary tariff cuts for Ukrainian exports to the EU

The European Commission today adopted a proposal for temporarily removing customs duties on

Ukrainian exports to the EU.

Following the recent unprecedented events in the country and the security, political and economic

challenges faced by Ukraine, on 6 March 2014 the European Council stated its support to help

stabilize Ukraine`s economy with a package of measures. One of these was the granting of

autonomous trade preferences, set out in today`s proposal for an EU Council/Parliament

Regulation.

The idea is not to await the entry into force of the Association Agreement`s provisions on a Deep

and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA), but to advance the implementation of its tariffs

section by means of autonomous trade preferences and to start unilaterally the reduction or

elimination of the EU`s customs duties on goods originating in Ukraine. However, the preferences

are not a substitute for the DCFTA and will be granted for a limited period only: until 1 November

2014. It is expected that the DCFTA between the EU and Ukraine will be signed and provisionally

apply before the 1st November 2014 in which case the unilateral system of autonomous trade

preferences ends.

Once adopted by the EU, this unilateral measure will allow Ukrainian exporters to benefit from

preferential access to the EU market in full line with the schedule of concessions negotiated under

the DCFTA. Ukraine will not have to provide extra access to EU exports in return. The temporary

elimination of the customs duties will be total or partial, depending on the sector.

"The European Commission is committed, and ready, to support Ukraine to stabilise its economic

and financial situation", said European Commission President José Manuel Barroso. "Last

Thursday, the EU Heads of State and Government welcomed the 11 billion euros package of

support to Ukraine presented by European Commission. The Commission is moving ahead fast

with the implementation of this support package, and today has adopted the first of the foreseen

measures – a set of trade provisions that will represent an economic benefit to Ukraine of around

500 million euros per year. This proposal is a concrete, tangible measure of EU support to

Ukraine."

"I`m delighted that we have been able to act so swiftly to prepare the way for help to Ukraine. The

idea is for the EU to open its doors to exports from Ukraine, helping to give a real boost to

Ukrainian businesses with a real impact on the daily-lives of all Ukrainians", said EU Trade

Commissioner Karel De Gucht. "With this rapid response, the European Commission has shown it

stands shoulder to shoulder with the people of Ukraine and I would now encourage the European

Parliament and the Council to fast track the approval process, so the tariff reductions can be in

place by June."

The value of this support measure will be nearly €500 million in tariff reductions, of which almost

€400m accrue to the agricultural sector.

The EU`s unilateral trade opening requires Ukraine to fully co-operate with the EU in its

implementation and ensure that Ukraine does not change in any way its tariffs towards the EU

during this period. In addition, a number of safeguard controls will be put in place to prevent

market-distorting surges impacting adversely on European companies and industry including the

agricultural sector.

The proposal in detail:

Industrial Products: Existing EU tariffs for industrial goods exported from Ukraine will be removed

immediately for 94.7% of products. For the remaining handful of products (some chemical

products, etc.) the tariffs will be reduced.

Agricultural Products: For agricultural goods, the EU has taken important but more limited action to

open up its market to Ukrainian agriculture. This will ensure the European agricultural sector is not

harmed by this unilateral trade action.

In concrete terms, the EU will grant immediate and unlimited preferences to 82.2% of Ukraine`s

exports. For the other products (cereals, pork, beef, poultry and a handful of additional products) a

partial liberalisation is achieved by the granting of duty-free tariff rate quotas (TRQs), which limit

the amount of certain goods able to benefit from the trade preference.

Processed food products: The EU will grant immediate preferences to 83.4 % of Ukraine`s exports.

The remaining 15.9% will be partially liberalised through TRQs.

Safeguard systems: In order to prevent any risk of fraud, the entitlement to benefit from

autonomous trade preferences is conditional on the compliance by Ukraine with the relevant

procedures linked to the `rules of origin` of products as well as involvement in effective

administrative cooperation with the EU. Moreover, Ukraine must abstain from introducing new

duties or charges having equivalent effect or new quantitative restrictions or measures having

equivalent effect or from increasing existing levels of duties or charges or from introducing any

other restrictions.

Safeguards are available and the reintroduction of normal customs duties is possible where

products cause, or threaten to cause, serious difficulties to Union producers of like or directly

competing products. This system is based on statistical data collected from national customs

officials throughout the EU. In case the data demonstrates a sharp or swift increase of imports

(meaning that, for example, products originating from another country (not Ukraine) end up

flooding the EU market through false Ukrainian certificates of origin and benefit unduly of the

DCFTA), the EU may re-establish the tariffs on a said product.

Background

Ukraine is a priority partner country within the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) and the

Eastern Partnership. The European Union has been seeking an increasingly close relationship with

Ukraine going beyond mere bilateral cooperation, encompassing gradual progress towards political

association and economic integration. This was the logic behind the Association Agreement,

including a DCFTA, negotiated between the European Union and Ukraine from 2007-2011 and

initialed by both parties in 2012. Under the provisions of the DCFTA, the European Union and

Ukraine are to establish a free trade area over a transitional period of a maximum of 10 years

starting from the entry into force of the Association Agreement.

On 21 November 2013, Ukraine announced the suspension of the preparations for the signature of

the Association Agreement, including the DCFTA, with the EU. The signature was initially

scheduled to take place at the Eastern Partnership Summit, held in Vilnius, on 28-29 November

2013.

Following the recent unprecedented events in the country and the security, political and economic

challenges faced by Ukraine, the European Council stated its intention to support the economic

stabilization of the country by means of a package of measures, including the granting of

autonomous trade preferences.

 Details:  http://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/ukraine/press_corner/all_news/news/2014/2014_03_12_01_en.htm

11 March 2014 – OSCE - OSCE Chair says Crimean referendum in its current form is illegal and calls for alternative ways to address the Crimean issue

In its current form the referendum regarding Crimea scheduled for March 16, 2014, is in

contradiction with the Ukrainian Constitution and must be considered illegal, Swiss Foreign

Minister and OSCE Chair Didier Burkhalter said.

For any referendum regarding the degree of autonomy or sovereignty of the Crimea to be

legitimate, it would need to be based on the Ukrainian constitution and would have to be in line

with international law, he said. In that context, Burkhalter called upon all actors to refrain from

supporting unconstitutional activities.

The Chair also ruled out the possibility of an OSCE observation of the planned referendum of

March 16 as the basic criteria for a decision in a constitutional framework was not met.

Furthermore, an invitation by the participating State concerned would be a precondition to any

observation activity in this regard.

International experiences, including experiences in Switzerland, showed that processes aiming at

modifying constitutional set ups and discussions on regional autonomy were complex and time

consuming, sometimes stretching over months or even years, he added. Political and legal

adjustments in that regard had to be consulted in an inclusive and structured  dialogue on national,

regional and local level. Burkhalter said that all stakeholders had to be on board, otherwise

processes like that would provoke tensions instead of leading to sustainable solutions and

addressing concerns of parts of the population, including minority rights.

The Chair reiterated his readiness to engage in discussions with all sides, possibly in the form of a

Contact Group, regarding possibilities to find ways out of the current situation. The Chair took note

of significant concerns signaled by his Personal Envoy on the situation in the Crimea. He invited all

participating States to support an early decision and subsequent deployment of an OSCE

Monitoring Mission to Ukraine.

 Details:  http://www.osce.org/cio/116313

11 March 2014 – OSCE - OSCE media freedom representative concerned about new steps to restrict media plurality in Ukraine

OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today expressed concern about

demands that cable operators in Ukraine stop transmitting certain Russian television channels.

“I repeat my call to the authorities not to initiate these repressive measures,” Mijatović said.

“Banning programming without a legal basis is a form of censorship; national security concerns

should not be used at the expense of media freedom.”

On 11 March the National Television and Radio Broadcasting Council of Ukraine demanded that all

cable operators stop broadcasts of the Russian television channels Rossiya 24, ORT, RTR Planeta

and NTV-Mir.

“While I deplore any kind of state propaganda and hate speech as part of the current information

war, everyone has the right to receive information from as many sources as he or she wishes,”

Mijatovic said. “Switching off and banning channels is not the way to address these problems; any

potentially problematic speech should be countered with arguments and more speech.” 

 Details:  http://www.osce.org/fom/116312

11 March 2014 – OSCE - Ukraine requests continuation of visit by unarmed personnel

UPDATE for 11 March, 15:30 - Twenty-one OSCE participating State responded positively to the

second request of Ukraine and are sending their personnel: Albania, Austria, Belgium, Canada,

Estonia, Finland, France, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Netherlands, Norway, Poland,

Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, United Kingdom, USA.

VIENNA, 11 March 2014, 12:00 –  A continuation of the visit by unarmed personnel has been

requested by Ukraine, this time to cover the south and east of the country.

So far, 14 OSCE participating States have responded to the request, with numbers expected to

rise over the next days. They are Belgium, Canada, Estonia, Finland, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland,

Italy, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Slovakia, Spain, Turkey and the United States.

The visit is taking place under Chapter III of the Vienna Document 2011, which allows for voluntary

hosting of visits to dispel concerns about unusual military activities. It is expected to continue until

Sunday March 16th.

A first visit to Crimea was organised from 5 to 12 March 2014, when the group was unable to move

beyond checkpoints at the administrative border.

The Vienna Document 2011 is one of the main confidence-building measures developed by the

OSCE. Under this document, all participating States are required to share information on their

military forces, equipment and defence planning. The Document also provides for inspections and

evaluation visits that can be conducted on the territory of any participating State that has armed

forces.

Note to editors: Chapter III of the Vienna Document 2011 (full text see

at  http://www.osce.org/fsc/86597)

VOLUNTARY HOSTING OF VISITS TO DISPEL CONCERNS ABOUT MILITARY ACTIVITIES

(18) In order to help to dispel concerns about military activities in the zone of application for

CSBMs, participating States are encouraged to invite other participating States to take part in visits

to areas on the territory of the host State in which there may be cause for such concerns. Such

invitations will be without prejudice to any action taken under paragraphs (16) to (16.3).

(18.1) States invited to participate in such visits will include those which are understood to have

concerns. At the time invitations are issued, the host State will communicate to all other

participating States its intention to conduct the visit, indicating the reasons for the visit, the area to

be visited, the States invited and the general arrangements to be adopted.

(18.2) Arrangements for such visits, including the number of the representatives from other

participating States to be invited, will be at the discretion of the host State, which will bear the in-

country costs. However, the host State should take appropriate account of the need to ensure the

effectiveness of the visit, the maximum amount of openness and transparency  and the safety and

security of the invited representatives. It should also take account, as far as practicable, of the

wishes of visiting representatives as regards the itinerary of the visit. The host State and the States

which provide visiting personnel may circulate joint or individual comments on the visit to all other

participating States.

 Details:  http://www.osce.org/fsc/116308

11 March 2014 - The Russian Federation - Russian Foreign Ministry concerned by violation of journalist rights in Ukraine

The Russian Foreign Ministry has expressed concern over instances of limitations of press

freedom and discrimination against journalists covering the events in Ukraine. 

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine/russian-foreign-ministry-concerned-by-violation-of-journalist-rights-in-ukraine-339067.html

11 March 2014 - The Government of Switzerland - Switzerland lengthens list of Ukrainian citizens whose assets to be blocked

The Swiss authorities have announced a decision to freeze all assets and bank accounts of

another nine citizens of Ukraine, the Web site of French newspaper Liberation has reported. 

In particular, the measures will be taken against the younger son of Viktor Yanukovych, Viktor, and

the son of ex-premier of Ukraine Mykola Azarov, Oleksiy.

Besides, sanctions will be imposed on ex-chief of security service head of Ukraine Oleksandr

Yakymenko and MP from the Regions Party Artem Pshonka, the son of ex-prosecutor general of

Ukraine Viktor Pshonka.

As reported, in February 2014, the Federal Council of Switzerland decided to block all the assets

Viktor Yanukovych and his entourage might have in Switzerland.

The list published on the Web site of the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority includes 20

Ukrainian officials, namely Serhiy Arbuzov, Mykola Azarov, Raisa Bohatyriova, Mykhailo Dobkin,

Yuriy Ivaniuschenko, Hennadiy Kernes, Oleksandr Klymenko, Andriy Kliuyev, Serhiy Kliuyev,

Borys Kolesnikov, Yuriy Kolobov, Volodymyr Kozak, Olena Lukash, Mykola Prysiazhniuk, Viktor

Pshonka, Eduard Stavytsky, Viktor [Fedorovych] Yanukovych, Oleksandr Yanukovych, Oleksandr

Yefremov, and Vitaliy Zakharchenko.

A similar decision against 18 Ukrainians was taken by Austria in February.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine/switzerland-lengthens-list-of-ukrainian-citizens-whose-assets-to-be-blocked-339063.html

11 March 2014 - The Government of Kazakhstan / The United States - Kazakh and U.S. leaders reiterate need for peaceful solution in Ukraine

The presidents of Kazakhstan and the United States, Nursultan Nazarbayev and Barack Obama,

exchanged opinions on key international and regional issues, with the focus being on the situation

in Ukraine, during their latest telephone conversation, the Kazakh presidential press service

reported on Tuesday.

"The presidents of Kazakhstan and the U.S. reaffirmed the need to secure a peaceful settlement in

Ukraine with the help of diplomatic methods, which will help maintain the territorial integrity of this

country and bridge the gap between the positions of all the sides concerned," it said.

Nazarbayev said that this problem should be tackled exclusively through negotiations involving all

of the concerned sides.

Obama, for his part, proposed establishing a viable mechanism under the auspices of international

organizations such as the UN or the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe in order

to try to resolve the continuing crisis in Ukraine, the press service said.

Apart from that, the Kazakh and U.S. leaders discussed the current state of bilateral relations and

their prospects, as well as preparations for the March 24-25 Nuclear Security Summit in The

Hague.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine/kazakh-and-us-leaders-reiterate-need-for-peaceful-solution-in-ukraine-339046.html

11 March 2014 - The Government of France – Russia sanctions could start this week, says France

The French foreign minister, Laurent Fabius, has said that sanctions against Russia could begin as

early as this week if Moscow does not respond to western proposals to solve the crisis in Ukraine.

"If they respond positively, [the US secretary of state] John Kerry will go to Moscow and then

sanctions will not be immediate. If they do not respond or if they respond negatively, there will be a

series of sanctions that could be taken as early as this week," he said on France Inter radio.

Western officials will meet in London on Tuesday to identify Russians who will be subject to asset

freezes and travel bans that officials hope will persuade Moscow to withdraw from Crimea.

 Details:  http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/mar/11/ukraine-crisis-russia-sanctions-france

11 March 2014 - Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Germany – EU doesn`t want to confront Russia but must ready measures

German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said on Tuesday the European Union would

rather avoid confrontation with Russia over its incursion into Ukrainian territory in Crimea but would

have to prepare an EU response if Moscow doesn`t back down.

"If the weekend passes without a visible change in Russia`s conduct, then on Monday in the

European Council we will have to discuss a next stage of measures," he said on a visit to the Baltic

states, all EU members who are worried about Ukraine.

"We don`t want confrontation but the action of the Russian side unfortunately makes it necessary

for us to prepare, as I have just outlined to you," Steinmeier told reporters in the Estonian capital

Tallinn.

 Details:  http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/03/11/us-ukraine-eu-steinmeier-idUSBREA2A0D120140311

11 March 2014 - The United States – Obama Discusses Ukraine Crisis With China`s Xi Jinping

U.S. President Barack Obama has sought China`s support for urging Russia to pull out its troops

from Ukraine and work on a diplomatic solution to the crisis, the White House said. In a telephone

call with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Obama "noted his overriding objective of restoring

Ukraine`s sovereignty and territorial integrity and ensuring the Ukrainian people are able

to determine their own future without foreign interference," the White House said Sunday in a

statement.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine-abroad/the-moscow-times-obama-discusses-ukraine-crisis-with-chinas-xi-jinping-339015.html

11 March 2014 - The Russian Federation

Comment by the Information and Press Department of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding Viktor Yanukovych’s statements about the intent to provide financial assistance to Kiev

We took note of the words of the President of Ukraine, Viktor Yanukovych, during his speech in

Rostov-On-Don on the 11 March that the plans of the US Administration to grant 1 billion US

dollars to the current authorities in Kiev are contrary to valid US legislation.

Indeed, according to the amendments made to the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 several years

ago, the provision of foreign assistance is prohibited to “the government of any country whose duly

elected head of government is deposed by military coup or decree”. This provision is included in 22

US Code § 8422. Therefore, according to all the criteria, allocation of funds to a non-legitimate

regime, which seized power by violence, is illegal and is outside the framework of US law.

Of course, we understand that taking into account the position taken by Washington they will hardy

acknowledge this evident fact. It seems that the US Administration will keep turning a blind eye to

the dominance of ultranationalist forces in Kiev, who have started a country-widehunt for those

who think otherwise, they are intensifying pressure on the Russian-speaking population and our

nationals, threatening the population of Crimea with reprisal for their aspiration for self-

determination. Decision-makers in the United States should think about the consequences of their

reckless connivance with Nazi-like radical elements in Ukraine and their financial pumping.

 Details:  http://www.mid.ru/brp_4.nsf/0/AAC1B5321B30DC2644257C9A004243BE  

11 March 2014 -  The Russian Federation

Comment by the Information and Press Department of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairson the situation with the mass media in Ukraine

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is concerned about the restriction of the freedom of the

mass media and violation of the rights of journalists, who are covering the events in Ukraine.

Representatives of the mass media are being subjected to psychological pressure and violence in

Kiev and other cities in Ukraine. A threat of physical liquidation was expressed to the

correspondent of “Russia 24” Artyom Kol, and a reward of 10 thousand hryvnias was offered for

him.

At the beginning of March some websites of the Russian mass media covering the situation in

Ukraine were attacked by hackers. On the 2 March, there was an attack on the “Russia Today” TV

channel, and on the 7 of March – on “Rossiyskaya Gazeta”.

On the 4 March, “RTR-Planeta”, “Pervyi Kanal. Vsemirnaya set” and “NTV Mir” were removed from

the viewing grid of cable TV.

We are outraged by the fact that employees of the Russian mass media are being prevented from

entering the territory of Ukraine under various pretexts. On the 6 March the engineering crew of

VGTRK (correspondent Veronika Bogma, video operator Antuan Ketchedzhiyan, assistant Vladimir

Shumakov, as well as the VGTRK employeeAndrey Mescheryakov) was refused entry into the

territory of Ukraine.

On the 7 March the engineering crew of “TV Centr” (correspondent Mikhail Shekoyan, TV operator

Maxim Pankin and assistant TV operator Anatoly Zanin) were deported from the airport of Donetsk.

The group from “NTV” TV channel (correspondent Harry Knyagnitsky, operator Sergey Koreshkov,

sound operator Dmitry Anisimov and video operators of the “Pervyi kanal” Andrey Konk and Oleg

Pudov) was refused entry.

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has noted many times that “double standards” and a

selective approach to the assessment of the situation regarding the freedom of the mass media in

the territory of Ukraine by international organisations, profile NGOs and human rights associations,

who turn a blind eye on such censoring, are unacceptable.

We expect that the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media will give a prompt and

unprejudiced assessment of these cases of violation of the rights of journalists and will ensure that

the respective OSCE obligations are implemented by those who are now in power in Kiev.

 Details:  http://www.mid.ru/brp_4.nsf/0/8615A21BC9633A8644257C9A0042130B  

11 March 2014 - The Russian Federation

Statement by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the adoption of the Declaration of Independence of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and Sevastopol

On the 11 March, by decree of the Supreme Council of Crimea, the Declaration of Independence

of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and Sevastopol was adopted, according to which, if a

decision to become part of Russia is made at the referendum of the 16 March, Crimea will be

announced an independent and sovereign state with a republican order. According to this

document, Crimea will be a democratic, laic and multinational state, with an obligation to maintain

peace, international and intersectarian consent in its territory. If the referendum brings the

respective results, Crimea as an independent and sovereign state will turn to the Russian

Federation with the proposition to accept the Republic of Crimea on the basis of a respective

interstate treaty into the Russian Federation as a new constituent entity of the Russian Federation.

The Declaration contains international and legal justification of this step, with references to the UN

Charter and other international documents, as well as the decision of the UN’s International Court

of Justice of 22 July 2010 on Kosovo. With this decision, adopted at the request of the UN General

Assembly at the initiative of Serbia, the International Court of Justice confirmed the fact that

unilateral announcement of independence by a part of a state does not violate any provision of

international law. The same conclusion was clearly reached during the preceding hearings in the

International Court of Justice, in particular, documents and speeches of official representatives of

the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Austria, Denmark and other western

countries. Materials regarding the position of the International Court of Justice and the above

mentioned western representatives are posted on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs believes that the decision of the Crimean Parliament is

absolutely within its rights. The Russian Federation will fully respect the results of the free will of

the Crimean people at the referendum, to which (as is a known fact) the OSCE’s and bilateral

observers were invited.

 Details:  http://www.mid.ru/brp_4.nsf/0/4751D80FE6F93D0344257C990062A08A  

11 March 2014 - The Government of Canada - Canada Cautions Russia on Proposed Crimea Legislation

Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement:

“Canada, alongside our G-7 partners, is gravely concerned by news that Russia may be

proceeding with draft legislation aimed at the absorption of Ukraine’s Crimea region into the

Russian Federation. Russia appears to be preparing the ground for outright, illegal annexation of

Crimea.

“Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a clear violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity

and of international law. As Prime Minister Stephen Harper indicated last week, Canada and our

partners will not recognize the legitimacy of a referendum—planned for March 16—held in a region

under illegal military occupation, nor will we consider as valid any corresponding legislative motion

in Moscow designed to legitimize it.

“If Russia’s legislators move forward with the annexation bill currently being considered by the

Duma, they will only contribute to their country’s growing isolation.

“We remain extremely concerned about the ongoing crisis and continue to call on Russia to

respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, including its 1994 Budapest Memorandum

obligations.”

 Details:  http://www.international.gc.ca/media/aff/news-communiques/2014/03/11a.aspx?lang=eng

10 March 2014 - The Russian Federation - Statement by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the events in Ukraine

Russia is outraged at the atrocities reigning in eastern regions of Ukraine as a result of the actions

of militants of the so-called Right Sector with the connivance of the new authorities (as they call

themselves).

It even came to the situation that well equipped people in masks, holding firearms, opened fire on

peaceful demonstrators in Kharkov on the 8 March. Some people were injured.

The police of Dnepropetrovsk detained seven Russian journalists, motivating their actions by the

fact that they were interested in “individual provocative reports” only. In other words, this is

“freedom of the mass media”.

The Ukrainian authorities, in violation of all the available bilateral agreements do not let nationals of

the Russian Federation into Ukrainian territory, in fact they have hindered the path to transborder

cooperation.

We are surprised that our western partners, human rights organisations, the foreign mass media,

shyly keep silence. I have a question: where is the notorious objectiveness and commitment to

democracy?

 Details:  http://www.mid.ru/brp_4.nsf/0/3ABE16DC80E1044544257C990061F0AF

10 March 2014 -  OSCE - OSCE media freedom representative calls for immediate release of kidnapped journalists in Crimea, Ukraine

OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today called for the immediate

release of the two Ukrainian journalists who were kidnapped on 9 March.

“I am extremely worried about the escalation of attacks against journalists in Crimea,” Mijatovic

said. “The responsibility for ensuring journalists’ safety lies with those responsible for law and order

in Crimea, and they must immediately release these journalists.”

According to reports, on 9 March Oles Kromplyas and Olena Maksimenko, journalists with the

Glavkom and Ukrainskiy Tizhden’ news portals respectively, and their driver Eugene Rakhno, were

stopped by representatives of the Berkut  law enforcement squad at the checkpoint near

Armyansk, Crimea. They were then kidnapped by unknown people in military uniform and their

current whereabouts are unknown. 

 Details:  http://www.osce.org/fom/116294

10 March 2014 - The United Kingdom - British Prime Minister David Cameron: `What has happened to Ukraine is completely indefensible`

The Prime Minister gave a statement to the House of Commons about last week’s emergency

European Council on Ukraine. With permission, Mr Speaker, I would like to make a statement on

last week’s emergency European Council.

What has happened to Ukraine is completely indefensible. Its territorial integrity has been violated

and the aspirations of its people to chart their own future are being frustrated.

This European Council sent a clear and united message to Russia that its actions are in flagrant

breach of international law and will incur consequences. We agreed on a three-phase approach to

stand up to this aggression and uphold international law: first, some immediate steps to respond to

what Russia has done; secondly, urgent work on a set of measures that will follow if Russia

refuses to enter dialogue with the Ukrainian Government; and thirdly, a set of further, far-reaching

consequences should Russia take further steps to destabilise the situation in Ukraine.

Let me say a word on each of those steps. First, as a response to what Russia has already done,

we agreed on some immediate steps. We have suspended preparations for the G8 in Sochi

indefinitely. As I told the House last week, my view is that it would be completely wrong for a G8

summit to go ahead at all under current circumstances. We decided to stop work on a

comprehensive new agreement on relations between Russia and the European Union, and we

immediately suspended the talks that were under way on a more liberal visa regime in the

Schengen area—the thing that Russian Ministers and business delegations have pushed for more

than anything else.

Here in Britain, I have ordered an urgent review of all Government business with Russia. We have

already announced that no Ministers or members of the royal family will visit the Sochi

Paralympics. Many other planned ministerial-level contacts will be cancelled in current

circumstances. All bilateral military co-operation is under review, with the presumption that we will

suspend it, except for work carried out to fulfil international treaty obligations, such as European

arms control inspections. I have ordered a review of licences for arms exports to Russia. It is hard

to see how anything that could be used in Ukraine could be justified. As with other measures, it is

best if possible to take these decisions in concert with our European allies.

There has been intense work to persuade Russia to come to the negotiating table with the

Government of Ukraine and to discuss its stated concerns face to face. The idea of such a contact

group, including other countries and organisations, was one I first proposed to the Polish Prime

Minister back in January. The European Council agreed it was essential for such talks to start

within the next few days and for them to deliver progress quickly. We also agreed that if Russia did

not co-operate there would need to be further measures—the so-called second phase—which

would need to start rapidly.

Therefore, at my instigation, the Council tasked the European Commission to begin work on

additional measures which could be taken against Russia if these talks do not get going or do not

start producing results. These will include asset freezes and travel bans. We are working closely

with our American, European and other international partners to prepare a list of names, and these

sanctions, plus the measures already agreed against Yanukovych and his circle, will be the focus

of a meeting here in London tomorrow with key international partners.

There is an urgent need to de-escalate tension in Crimea. We are all clear that any referendum

vote in Crimea this week will be illegal, illegitimate and will not be recognised by the international

community. In addition, I have to say that any campaign would be completely impractical as well as

illegal. There is no proper register or proper campaign, and the territory is covered with troops. It is

completely impossible for a proper referendum campaign to be carried out. As I discussed with

Chancellor Merkel last night in Hanover, Russia can choose the path of de-escalation by signalling

it understands that the outcome cannot be acted on as legitimate. Chancellor Merkel and I were

clear that any attempt by Russia to legitimise an illegal referendum would require us to respond by

ratcheting up the pressure further.

Thirdly, and most significantly, we agreed that it was essential to stop Russia taking further

unacceptable steps in Ukraine. The Council agreed that if further steps are taken by Russia to

destabilise Ukraine, there will be additional and far-reaching consequences for the relationship

between the Russian Federation on the one hand and the European Union and its member states

on the other. The Council conclusions state that these consequences would “include a broad range

of economic areas.”

Britain played a leading role in helping to reach this agreement, including through a meeting I

convened with fellow leaders from France, Germany, Italy and Poland on the morning of the

Council. Such sanctions would have consequences for many EU member states, including Britain,

but as I argued at the meeting, the costs of not standing up to aggression are far greater. Britain’s

own security and prosperity would be at risk if we allow a situation where countries can just flout

international rules without incurring consequences.

Finally, we decided to send a political message of support to the Ukrainian Government and

people. The interim Ukrainian President spoke at the European Council with great power and

force. The Ukrainian people want the freedom to be able to choose their own future and strengthen

their ties with Europe, and they want a future free from the awful corruption that they have endured

for far too long.

At the request of the Ukrainian Prime Minister, we therefore agreed to bring forward the signing of

the political part of the EU’s association agreement with Ukraine, and we agreed to help Ukraine

tackle corruption. The EU has now frozen the assets of 18 people linked to the former regime, and

Britain has deployed a team to Kiev from our National Crime Agency to help the new Ukrainian

Government go after ill-gotten funds and return them to the Ukrainian people.

It is now vital that Ukraine proceeds towards free and fair elections that enable all Ukrainians,

including Russian speakers and minorities, to choose their leaders freely, so Britain is now

providing substantial and immediate technical assistance to Ukraine to support elections and assist

with reforms on public finance management, debt management and energy pricing. Ukraine also

needs support to stabilise and repair its economy. The EU agreed unilaterally to lower trade tariffs,

and to work with the International Monetary Fund on a package of financial assistance to the

Ukrainian Government.

As I agreed with President Obama during our call this weekend, there is still an opportunity for

Russia to resolve this situation diplomatically. It should engage in direct talks with the Ukrainians,

return Russian troops to their bases in Crimea, withdraw its support for this illegal and

unconstitutional referendum in Crimea, and work with the rest of the international community to

support free and fair elections in Ukraine in May. No one should be interested in a tug of war.

Ukraine should be able to choose its own future and act as a bridge between Russia and Europe.

Britain’s own future depends on a world where countries obey the rules. In Europe, we have spent

the past 70 years working to keep the peace, and we know from history that turning a blind eye

when nations are trampled over stores up greater problems for the longer term. We must stand up

to aggression, uphold international law and support the Ukrainian Government and the Ukrainian

people, who want the freedom to choose their own future. That is right for Ukraine, right for

Europe, right for Britain. I commend this statement to the House.

 Details: https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/emergency-european-council-on-ukraine-david-camerons-statement

10 March 2014 - The United States - Readout of the President’s Call with the President of the Government of Spain Mariano Rajoy

THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

The President spoke today with the President of the Government of Spain Mariano Rajoy about

Ukraine.  The President welcomed the strong, unified stance of the United States and the

European Union regarding Russia’s military intervention in Ukraine, including in the conclusions of

the March 6 European Council.  The leaders reiterated their grave concern over Russia’s clear

violation of international law and reaffirmed their support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial

integrity. 

The leaders also welcomed the restraint shown by the Ukrainian government in responding to

Russian violations of Ukrainian sovereignty and agreed upon the need for direct dialogue between

Ukraine and Russia to de-escalate the situation and restore Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial

integrity.  The leaders rejected the proposed referendum in Crimea as a violation of Ukraine’s

constitution and underscored that all decisions about the future of Ukraine must include the

government in Kyiv.  They agreed to continue close coordination, including through appropriate

international organizations.

 Details: http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/obama-rajoy.html

10 March 2014 - The United States - Readout of the President’s Call with President Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan

THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

The President spoke today with President Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan to discuss

Ukraine.  The two leaders affirmed their shared interest in identifying a peaceful resolution to the

dispute between Russia and Ukraine.  They agreed on the importance of upholding principles of

sovereignty and territorial integrity.  The President noted U.S. commitment to the principle that the

Ukrainian people be able to decide their future without fear of foreign interference.  The President

also encouraged Kazakhstan to play an active role in finding a peaceful outcome for Ukraine.

 Details:  http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/obama-nazarbaev.html

10 March 2014 - The United States - Readout of the President’s Call with President Xi of China

THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

The President spoke to Chinese President Xi Jinping on the evening of March 9 regarding the

situation in Ukraine. The two leaders agreed on the fundamental importance of focusing on

common interests and deepening practical cooperation to address regional and global challenges

for the development of bilateral relations. In that context, they affirmed their shared interest in

reducing tensions and identifying a peaceful resolution to the dispute between Russia and Ukraine.

The two leaders agreed on the importance of upholding principles of sovereignty and territorial

integrity, both in the context of Ukraine and also for the broader functioning of the international

system. The President noted his overriding objective of restoring Ukraine’s sovereignty and

territorial integrity and ensuring the Ukrainian people are able to determine their own future without

foreign interference. The two leaders committed to stay in touch as events unfold.

 Details:  http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/xi-03102014.html

10 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Russia Condemns Ukraine `Lawlessness`

Russia`s Foreign Ministry said on Monday it was outraged by lawlessness in eastern Ukraine, and

accused the far-right paramilitary movement Right Sector of "conniving" with the new government

in Kiev.

The ministry said in a statement masked men had opened fire on peaceful demonstrators in the

eastern city of Kharkiv on March 8, wounding some.

It also said seven Russian journalists had been detained in the eastern city of Dnipropetrovsk,

suggesting the new leaders and their Western allies were not committed to media freedoms.

"The shamefaced silence of our Western partners, human rights organisations and foreign media

is surprising. It raises the question - where is the notorious objectivity and commitment to

democracy?" it said.

 Details: http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2014/03/10/world/europe/10reuters-ukraine-crisis-russia-lawlessness.html?ref=world&_r=0

10 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Lavrov: Europe asks Russia, US to work together in search for Ukraine settlement

The European partners have urged Russia and the United States to work together directly in

search for ways of settling the situation in Ukraine, said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. 

"The partners proposed at a regular round of bilateral talks that Russia and the United States work

together directly in search forapproaches acceptable to all," Lavrov told President Vladimir Putin on

Monday.

A series of international meetings took place last week, with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry

and European foreign ministers` participation, he said. 

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine/lavrov-europe-asks-russia-us-to-work-together-in-search-for-ukraine-settlement-338970.html

10 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Lavrov: Kerry puts off visit to Russia

US Secretary of State John Kerry has put off his visit to Russia, said Russian Foreign Minister

Sergei Lavrov.

"I asked you, in accordance with the American side`s request, to invite U.S. Secretary of State

John Kerry, who wanted to come to Russia to continue consultations," President Vladimir Putin told

Lavrov.

"We invited John Kerry at your instruction and in accordance with U.S. President Barack Obama`s

request, to come [to Russia], today, I guess, when you were ready to receive him. He gave his

preliminary consent. But he called back on Saturday and told me that he would like to put off the

visit," Lavrov said.

Kerry said Washington had obtained an additional paper, he said. 

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/russia-and-former-soviet-union/lavrov-kerry-puts-off-visit-to-russia-338962.html

10 March 2014 - The Government of Poland – Germany`s dependence on Russian gas poses risks for Europe, says Tusk

Poland`s prime minister said on Monday he would ask Chancellor Angela Merkel to work to reduce

German and European dependence on Russian gas to avert "potential aggressive steps

by Russia in the future".

Merkel will visit Poland on Wednesday to discuss the crisis in Ukraine, where Russia has

effectively taken control of the southern Crimean peninsula. Events there have highlighted

European reliance on Russian oil and gas.

Ukraine is a major gas transit nation for supplies from Russia to the European Union (EU), which

relies on Russia for over a quarter of its gas.

"Germany`s dependence on Russian gas may effectively decrease Europe`s sovereignty. I have

no doubts about that," Prime Minister Donald Tusk told a news conference.

"Increasingly more expensive energy in Europe due to exorbitant climate and environmental

ambitions may also mean greater dependence in Russian energy sources...Hence, I will talk (to

Merkel) primarily about how Germany is able to correct some economic actions so that

dependence on Russian gas doesn`t paralyse Europe when it needs...a decisive stance."

 Details: http://uk.reuters.com/article/2014/03/10/poland-germany-ukraine-idUKL6N0M71JA20140310

10 March 2014 - The Governments of Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxenbourg – Benelux foreign ministers support territorial integrity of Ukraine

Benelux countries (Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg) said they supported territorial

integrity of Ukraine. 

The Benelux states have thanked the Ukrainian government for restrained and clear reaction on

Russia`s provocations in the past weeks, it is very right to propose further to sit at the negotiations

table in order to resolve this issue and Benelux countries, same as the entire European Union,

support completely territorial integrity and immunity of Ukraine, Dutch Foreign Minister Frans

Timmermans said at a briefing on Monday following talks with acting Ukrainian Foreign Minister

Andriy Deschytsia in Kyiv.

Technical aspects of signing the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement in the short term are being

resolved now, Timmermans said.

The situation in Crimea was the main topic of the negotiations, Deschytsia said.

"We have discussed issues of de-escalating the situation in Crimea and eastern Ukraine as well as

the possibilities ofovercoming this conflict and its peaceful settlement," he said.

Kyiv remains committed to peaceful resolution of the crisis and using all diplomatic mechanisms to

de-escalate the conflict, Deschytsia said. 

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/politics/benelux-foreign-ministers-support-territorial-integrity-of-ukraine-338945.html

10 March 2014 - The United States – Pyatt: US not recognizing any results of Crimean referendum

He said in Kyiv on Monday that the United States was not prepared to recognize the results of the

so-called referendum, which is to be held in six days.

Pyatt said that the United States continued to consider the Crimean peninsula as a part of Ukraine.

The referendum in Crimea is scheduled for March 16. Two questions will be put up for the

referendum, in particular, "Do you support Crimea`s reunification with Russia?" and "Do you

support the restoration of the Constitution of the Crimean Republic dated 1992 and Crimea`s

status as a part of Ukraine?"

The Ukrainian authorities and the international community declared the illegality of the referendum.

In addition, the Ukrainian courts stopped the decision to hold the referendum in Crimea. 

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine/pyatt-us-not-recognizing-any-results-of-crimean-referendum-338943.html

10 March 2014 - The European Commission – European Commission to delay Russian South Stream gas pipeline talks

EU Energy Commissioner Guenther Oettinger is to delay talks with Russia on the South Stream

gas pipeline project aimed at bringing Russian gas via the Black Sea, he told a German newspaper

on Monday, in response to the crisis in Crimea. 

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/russia-and-former-soviet-union/reuters-european-commission-to-delay-russian-south-stream-gas-pipeline-talks-338936.html

10 March 2014 - The United States – US urges Russia to assist unobstructed access of OSCE monitors to Crimea

US Ambassador to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Daniel Baer

has urged the Russian authorities to assist unobstructed access of monitors to Crimea, the Wall

Street Journal posted on March 9.  

Russia says it is not aware of who impedes the free access of the OSCE representatives to Crimea

and as the country, which has signed the Vienna document, Russia should urge publicly for

ensuring free entry of these inspectors, Baer was quoted as saying.

Monitors have not been allowed to enter Crimea yet again, the OSCE twitted on March 8.

The OSCE verification mission comprising 40 monitors from 21 OSCE countries is in Ukraine on

March 5 to March 20.

The program of the mission includes visiting military facilities of the Ukrainian armed forces and

Russia`s Black Sea Fleet in Crimea. 

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine/us-urges-russia-to-assist-unobstructed-access-of-osce-monitors-to-crimea-338928.html

10 March 2014 - The People`s Republic of China – Chinese president Xi Jinping urges US to show restraint

Chinese president Xi Jinping has urged a political solution to the crisis in Ukraine and for all parties

to exercise calm and restraint, during separate telephone calls with US president Barack

Obama and German chancellor Angela Merkel.

“The situation in Ukraine is extremely complex, and what is most urgent is for all sides to remain

calm and exercise restraint to avoid an escalation in tensions,” China’s foreign ministry on Monday

cited Xi as telling Obama. 

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine-abroad/guardian-chinese-president-xi-jinping-urges-us-to-show-restraint-338924.html

10 March 2014 - The United Kingdom – Russia has made `big miscalculation` over Ukraine warns Hague

Russia has made a “big miscalculation” in occupying Crimea, UK Foreign Secretary William Hague

has warned. Delivering the stark caution, Mr Hague said that there would be “very significant” long-

term consequences for Russia’s future on the global stage if it refused to enter into diplomatic talks

with Kyiv over the stand-off.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine-abroad/the-independent-russia-has-made-big-miscalculation-over-ukraine-warns-hague-338910.html

9 March 2014 - The Russian Federation / The United States – Lavrov, Kerry agree to maintain contact to resolve Ukraine crisis

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Saturday agreed in

a telephone conversation to maintain intense contact in search of a solution to the Ukrainian crisis,

Russia`s Foreign Ministry said in a statement. 

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine-abroad/global-post-lavrov-kerry-agree-to-maintain-contact-to-resolve-ukraine-crisis-338907.html

9 March 2014 - The Government of Germany – Merkel raps Putin as Russian forces tighten grip on Crimea

Germany`s Angela Merkel delivered a rebuke to President Vladimir Putin on Sunday, telling him

that a planned Moscow-backed referendum on whether Crimea should join Russia was illegal and

violated Ukraine`s constitution.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine-abroad/reuters-merkel-raps-putin-as-russian-forces-tighten-grip-on-crimea-2-338937.html

9 March 2014 - The Russian Federation / The Government of Germany / The United Kingdom – Kremlin: Putin, Merkel, Cameron interested in de-escalation of Ukraine crisis

Russian President Vladimir Putin, British Prime Minister David Cameron and German Chancellor

Angela Merkel expressed in telephone talks their common interest in a de-escalation of tensions in

Ukraine, the Kremlin press service reported on Sunday.

"Putin, Cameron and Merkel continued the discussion of an extremely complicated sociopolitical

situation in Ukraine, as well as Crimea`s referendum, set for March 16. Despite differences, the

parties expressed common interest in the earliest possible de-escalation of tensions and

normalization of the situation," the Kremlin press service said.

"Putin made a point that the steps being taken by the legitimate Crimean authorities are based on

international law and aim to protect the legitimate interests of the population of the Crimea," the

press service said.

"The Russian president also said that the current Ukrainian authorities are doing nothing to curb

the ultra-nationalist and radical forces` outrages committed in Kyiv and many other regions," the

Kremlin press service said.

"The Russian, British and German leaders discussed what international efforts could be made to

settle the crisis. They agreed to continue their intensive working contacts, as well as contacts

between their countries` foreign-policy chiefs," the press service said.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine/kremlin-putin-merkel-cameron-interested-in-de-escalation-of-ukraine-crisis-338906.html

9 March 2014 - The United States – US will not recognize Russia`s Crimea annexation

The United States will not recognize the annexation of Crimea by Russia if residents of the region

vote to leave Ukraine in a referendum next week, U.S. national security official Tony Blinken said

on Sunday.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine-abroad/reuters-us-will-not-recognize-russias-crimea-annexation-338889.html

9 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Deputy prime minister says Russia should re-arm amid US, NATO ‘threats’

The Russian deputy prime minister in charge of defense said “overt threats” by the United States

and NATO demonstrate the necessity of equipping the Russian army with modern weapons.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine-abroad/ria-deputy-prime-minister-says-russia-should-re-arm-amid-us-nato-threats-338865.html

9 March 2014 - The United States – Kerry urges Russia to exercise utmost restraint in Ukraine`s Crimea

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry told Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in a telephone call

on Saturday that any Russian steps to annex Ukraine`s Crimea region would close the door to

diplomacy, a U.S. State Department official said.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine-abroad/reuters-kerry-urges-russia-to-exercise-utmost-restraint-in-ukraines-crimea-338851.html

9 March 2014 - The United States – United States Condemns Threats to OSCE Observers

Text of USOSCE press release

Vienna

The United States notes with deep concern reports that warning shots were fired while the OSCE

multilateral military observer team was at a checkpoint near Armyansk.

Threats to an unarmed international mission whose only goal is to observe and report on

conditions on the ground are obviously unacceptable.

U.S. Ambassador to the OSCE Daniel Baer said today, "Russia says it doesn`t know who is

blocking the free access to the peninsula -- as a signatory to the Vienna Document, Russia should

publicly call for free access for these monitors."

"Russia has voiced concerns about security in Crimea," Baer said.  "For this reason, Russia should

strongly support getting these monitors on the ground."

This incident underscores our concern about the safety of the local population and the need for

Russia to pull its troops back to their bases and cease provocative actions in Crimea.  It underlines

as well why we believe impartial reporting regarding security and safety conditions in the region is

essential, and we deplore the violent assaults on journalists in the past 24 hours.

 

The United States calls on Russia -– as a participating state of the OSCE and signatory of the

Vienna Document -– and all concerned parties to support maximum access of the team to all of

Ukraine, including the Crimean peninsula, in order to provide transparency and unbiased reporting

on the human, economic, and security situation in the region.

 Details: http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/osce-ukraine-03092014.html

8 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Comment by the Information and Press Department of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the ban on entry to the territory of Ukraine forRussian journalists

On the 7 March, journalists from “TV Centr” TV company and the engineering crew of “Vesti”, as

well as correspondents of other Russia mass media, were banned entry into the territory of Ukraine

in the airport of Donetsk.

Such glaring facts of violation of the freedom of the press show the hypocrisy of those who are

attempting to present themselves as “democrats” in Kiev. In fact, this is censoring of mass media.

We are surprised that there is no reaction from western mass media to such a glaring violation of

democracy.

Do western TV companies and agencies approve of such actions? We are waiting for a reaction.

 Details:  http://www.mid.ru/brp_4.nsf/0/A3BFA2B6A6531AD144257C9900618719

 8 March 2014 – OSCE – Media freedom under siege in Crimea, Ukraine, says OSCE representative

OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today condemned the continuous

closure of television channels and attacks on journalists in Crimea.

“Extreme censorship, shutting down media outlets and press hubs and attacks and intimidation of

journalists must stop immediately,” Mijatović said. “In times of crisis people must have an

unimpeded access to a plurality of sources; otherwise they can be subjected to the worst kind of

propaganda.”

Over the past few days the terrestrial signals of Ukrainian television stations Inter, Briz, 1+1, 5

channel, 1st National, STB have been cut, including the signal of the independent

Chernomorskaya TV, and replaced with Russian channels NTV, 1st channel, Rossiya 24, Rossiya

RTR, TNT and Zvezda. The Internet connection of Crimean Tatar ATR channel is down.

A number of journalists have been threatened, assaulted, physically attacked and several

members of the media have been severely injured while covering the events in Crimea. They

include Argumenti nedeli-Krym (Stanislav Yurchenko), Associated Press Television News, BBC,

CNN, Inter channel (Olena Mekhanik, Andrii Tsaplienko and two operators), Russkaya Planeta

(Pavel Nikulin), STB (Oleksii Simakov, Oleksandr Albinskyi, Vyacheslav Skvorchevskyi, Igor

Levenok), 5 channel (Anton Laktionov) and a number of freelancers, including Boryana Katsarova

and Dimiter Kenarov. Journalists have also had their equipment confiscated by unidentified

assailants.

“Those who introduce censorship of the media have no place in a democracy. I reiterate my call to

those responsible for law and order in Crimea to stop this destruction of freedom of the media and

do their utmost to ensure safety of journalists. The final responsibility lies with them,” Mijatović

said. 

 Details:   http://www.osce.org/fom/116240

8 March 2014 - The Governments of Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, Czech Republic – Nations urge U.S. gas exports amid Ukraine crisis

Four Central European nations are urging the United States to boost natural gas exports to Europe

as a hedge against the possibility that Russia could cut off its supply of gas to Ukraine.

Ambassadors from Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and the Czech Republic made their appeal Friday in

a letter to House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio. A similar letter was expected to be sent to

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev.

The letter from the four nations, known as the Visegrad Group, asks for U.S. Congress to support

speedier approval of natural gas exports, noting that the "presence of U.S. natural gas would be

much welcome in Central and Eastern Europe."

The ambassadors warn that the unrest in Ukraine has brought back Cold War memories and that

energy security threatens the region`s residents on a daily basis.

"Gas-to-gas competition in our region is a vital aspect of national security and a key U.S. interest in

the region," the ambassadors wrote in a letter obtained by The Associated Press.

 Details: http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2014/03/08/4-nations-urge-us-gas-exports-amid-ukraine-crisis/6201541/

8 March 2014 - The United States – Readout of the President’s Calls with President Berzins of Latvia, Prime Minister Cameron of the United Kingdom, President Grybauskaite of Lithuania, President Hollande of France, President Ilves of Estonia, and Prime Minister Renzi of Italy

THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

Readout of the President’s Calls with President Berzins of Latvia, Prime Minister Cameron of the

United Kingdom, President Grybauskaite of Lithuania, President Hollande of France, President

Ilves of Estonia, and Prime Minister Renzi of Italy

The President spoke separately with Prime Minister Cameron, President Hollande, and Prime

Minister Renzi today about Ukraine.  The President welcomed the strong, unified stance of the

United States and the European Union regarding Russia’s military intervention in Ukraine,

including in the conclusions of the March 6 European Council.  The leaders reiterated their grave

concern over Russia’s clear violation of international law and reaffirmed their support for Ukraine’s

sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The President also spoke with President Berzins, President Grybauskaite, and President Ilves on a

conference call today.  The President reaffirmed the United States’ unwavering commitment to our

collective defense commitments under the North Atlantic Treaty and our enduring support for the

security and democracy of our Baltic allies.  The Baltic leaders welcomed the provision of

additional support to NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission, and the leaders agreed to continue

coordinating their efforts closely.

All of the leaders agreed on the need for Russia to pull its military forces back to their bases, allow

for the deployment of international observers and human rights monitors to the Crimean peninsula,

and agree quickly on the formation of a contact group that could lead to direct dialogue between

Ukraine and Russia to de-escalate the situation and restore Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial

integrity.  The leaders rejected the proposed referendum in Crimea as a violation of Ukraine’s

constitution and underscored that all decisions about the future of Ukraine must include the

government in Kyiv.  The leaders made clear that Russia’s continued violation of international law

will isolate it from the international community.  They also discussed the need for the international

community to provide strong support to the government of Ukraine as it works to stabilize its

economy and prepares for elections in May.  They agreed to continue close coordination, including

through appropriate international organizations.

 Details:  http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/obama-call-03082014.html

8 March 2014 - The European Commission – Oettinger says Russia won`t switch off gas supplies to Europe

European Energy Commissioner Guenther Oettinger does not expect Russia to switch off gas

supplies to Europe over the Ukraine crisis, he told German magazine Wirtschaftswoche in an

interview published on Saturday.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine-abroad/reuters-oettinger-says-russia-wont-switch-off-gas-supplies-to-europe-338821.html

8 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Russia ready to continue dialogue with Ukraine

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Saturday his country is willing to continue a dialogue

with the Ukrainian authorities on resolving the crisis in the region. "We are ready to continue the

dialogue on the understanding that the dialogue must be honest, partnership-like, without attempts

to show us almost as a party to the conflict," Xinhua quoted Lavrov as saying after talks with his

Tajik counterpart, Sirojidin Aslov.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine-abroad/zee-news-russia-ready-to-continue-dialogue-with-ukraine-338810.html

8 March 2014 - The Government of Poland – Poland evacuates its consulate from Sevastopol due to actions by Russian forces

Poland has decided to evacuate its consulate staff from Sevastopol due to continuing disturbances

by Russian forces, Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski.

"Because of continuing disturbances by Russian forces there, we have reluctantly evacuated our

consulate in Sevastopol in Crimea, Ukraine," he wrote on twitter.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine/poland-evacuates-its-consulate-from-sevastopol-due-to-actions-by-russian-forces-338803.html

8 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Lavrov: Current Ukrainian government depends on radical nationalists

The current government in Kyiv is not independent, being heavily dependent on radical

nationalists, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.

"The so-called interim government is not independent; to our huge regret, it is dependent on the

radical nationalists who seized power in an armed attack," he told a press conference on Saturday,

responding to a question posed by Interfax on whether Moscow was ready to maintain contact with

representatives of the current Ukrainian government over the situation in Ukraine.

"It seems to me our Western partners are well aware of what they are because they visit there

regularly, and share very alarming impressions in private candid conversations, but for the reasons

of seemingly political expediency are trying to hush up these facts," the minister said.

"The situation in Ukraine is difficult," Lavrov said, recalling that Viktor Yanukovych had removed

police from the streets as per the February 21 agreement.

"Effectively, there is no state control whatsoever over public order, and the music is ordered by the

so-called Right Sector which operates with the methods of terror and intimidation," the Russian

foreign minister said.

"Already threats are sounded not only against officials in Kyiv and other Ukrainian regions, but

against heads of the Russian regions neighboring with Ukraine as well," Lavrov said.

Representatives from the current Ukrainian government asked for the Right Sector`s consent to

the ministers` candidacies, the Russian foreign minister also said.

"The current leaders of the interim government, as you said, sought this Right Sector`s consent to

the ministers` candidacies, and now this Right Sector is unhappy, and its leaders claim that the re-

set of the power system in Ukraine is not over, that they are not happy with the change of

decoration, they demand that every minister be called to Maidan so they all report on how they

fulfill the Maidan leaders` demands," Lavrov said.

"The leaders of this interim government, as you said, have suggested that this `right sector` be

vested with a status and functions of an official legitimate armed law-enforcement structure," he

recalled.

"You are probably aware of this fact as well, when the deputy defense ministers refused to do so,

they were simply fired. So it is very hard for us to talk about the independence of the new

authorities," the minister added.

"The Right Sector has demanded that the arsenals of the Ukrainian armed forces be opened and

the weapons handed over to it. I do not know how this can be perceived in terms of these

representatives being civil and democratic, so their independence can be judged by what I have

said," the foreign minister said.

"When we are being exhorted to work directly with the current leaders of Verkhovna Rada for the

sake of settling the Ukrainian crisis and, in general, maintain a major strategic dialogue with them,

that is a substitution of notions," Lavrov said.

During preparations for the signing of the February 21 between the Ukrainian authorities and

opposition, our Western partners promised Russia that if Viktor Yanukovych honors the assumed

obligations, they will definitely persuade the other party and prevent radical nationalists from

running the whole reform process in Ukraine, he said.

"President Yanukovych did as he promised, he delivered, but our partners failed to live up to their

promises. This is probably the reason of where we are now," Lavrov said.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine/lavrov-current-ukrainian-government-depends-on-radical-nationalists-338791.html

8 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Russia sticks to its demands in Ukraine crisis

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Saturday the new Ukrainian government should

stick to an agreement signed by the ousted president, signalling no change in Moscow`s position

over the Crimea crisis.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine-abroad/reuters-russia-sticks-to-its-demands-in-ukraine-crisis-338789.html

8 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Moscow warns U.S. on Crimea, Kremlin says no force `yet`

Russia says any U.S. sanctions imposed on Moscow over the crisis in Ukraine will boomerang

back on the United States, as armed men tried to seize another Ukrainian military base on the

peninsula. In a telephone conversation with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, Foreign Minister

Sergei Lavrov reportedly warned against "hasty and reckless steps" that could harm Russian-

American relations.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine-abroad/radio-free-europeradio-liberty-moscow-warns-us-on-crimea-kremlin-says-no-force-yet-338783.html

8 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Lavrov: Russia should not be seen as party to Ukrainian conflict

Russia is calling on its partners not to regard it as a party to the conflict in Ukraine, Russian

Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.

"We are ready to continue the dialogue on the understanding that the dialogue must be honest,

partnership-like, without attempts to show us almost as a party to the conflict," he told a press

conference in Moscow on Saturday.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine/lavrov-russia-should-not-be-seen-as-party-to-ukrainian-conflict-338776.html

8 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Duma consider Crimea annexation bill on March 21

A bill making it easer to annex the Autonomous Republic of Crimea to Russia could have its first

reading in State Duma on March 21.

"This date has been proposed for the first reading by the Committee for Constitutional Legislation

and Nation-Building," the lower house told Interfax on Friday.

The proposal will be considered by the Duma council at its next session on Tuesday.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine/duma-consider-crimea-annexation-bill-on-march-21-338765.html 

8 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Putin spokesman mocks suggested Western mediation in talks with Ukraine

President Vladimir Putin`s spokesman has mocked suggestions that Russia start negotiations with

Ukraine`s new government and that Western countries broker such talks.

"It`s pretty interesting that there are now appeals to Russia from Europe to hold negotiations with

the people from Kyiv who call themselves the Ukrainian authorities with the mediation of Western

countries. One can only just smile at that. Because, of course, any credit of confidence in those

`guarantors` in inverted commas has probably been lost after what happened to the document

signed by [Viktor] Yanukovych in Kyiv [an agreement of February 21 between Yanukovych and the

opposition]," Dmitry Peskov said in a program on Friday on Russia`s Rossiya 1 television.

"It`s true that the situation is very complicated," but the West should "take a sober-minded look" at

that situation and "ask itself who you`ve been in a hurry to recognize as the legitimate government

in Ukraine," Peskov said.

"We hope that this will happen sooner or later, and we sincerely wish our partners in the West put

that question to themselves," the spokesman said.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine/putin-spokesman-mocks-suggested-western-mediation-in-talks-with-ukraine-338759.html

8 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Russia warns US against `hasty` sanctions

Russia`s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has warned the US not to take "hasty and reckless steps"

in response to the crisis in Ukraine`s Crimea region. In a phone call with his US counterpart John

Kerry, Mr Lavrov said imposing sanctions on Moscow would harm the US.

 Details: http://www.kyivpost.com/content/ukraine-abroad/bbc-russia-warns-us-against-hasty-sanctions-338752.html

7 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Comment by the Information and Press Department of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the situation in Ukraine

The decisions, statements and plans of European and Atlantic European organisations, which

have been announced lately in European capitals with regard to the Ukrainian crisis, make us think

about the real aims our partners pursue, the funds they are ready to invest for their achievement

and, at the same time, about what they are ready to sacrifice. All the more so that at the level of

bilateral relations the same members of these organisations frequently say that they understand

us, they wish to work jointly without creating new barriers. However, it seems that when all their

members gather together, the shrillest of them, who place their personal political, economic,

historical and archive interests above common tasks, prevail in the search for a mutually

acceptable decision. Voices of both small and big countries, which value our bilateral relations and

truly understand that our people have common values, are shouted down by the crowd.

Moreover, when western partners actively promote their ideas to establish a contact group on

Ukraine, at the same time they scale-back the work in traditional format and the most important

areas of our interaction.

The chain of events, which we have highlighted, shows that our partners descend to any means to

achieve their goals. The stubborn drawing of Ukraine into the association with the EU, ignoring the

real state of the Ukrainian community, was done through the provocative support of anti-

government manifestations on Maidan. The signing of the agreement between the President and

the leaders of the opposition on the 21 February, which was flouted the next day, was followed by

the hasty recognition of the illegitimate Kiev regime. Now they are playing on the attempts of Kiev

to shift the attention of the “Commissioners” of the “Euromaidan” and public opinion from the real

problems, with democracy, respect for human rights and economics, to the “Crimean crisis”. As if

there was no other, western part of Ukraine, with its own very evident problems.

On the 6 February in Brussels, during another extraordinary session of the European Council, they

lost the opportunity to give an objective and fair assessment of the events in Ukraine. Moscow was

puzzled by the results, especially its concerns about the threat of the introduction of sanctions

against Russia. The European Union must clearly understand that no restrictive measures will

remain unanswered, but will hit the interests of the EU and its member states.

The same refers to the attempts at sanctions from NATO.

Several member states and executive bodies of the OSCE acted according to the worst tradition of

double standards with regard to the situation in Ukraine. Despite their mandate, they have said

nothing about nationalist and neo-Nazi moods and, of course, “they have not noticed” the forceful

actions of extremist forces.

Ill-disguised attempts to close their eyes on the crimes committed in Kiev and in Western Ukraine

are accompanied by the aspiration to closely follow the actions of legitimate Crimean authorities

regarding the independent determination of their future, bypassing the cornerstone consensus

principle of the OSCE, without taking into consideration the opinions and recommendations of the

Russian party, and without waiting for an official invitation from the Crimean authorities.

We are convinced that international assistance in stabilising the situation in Ukraine can be

valuable, only if it is objective. To do this, the OSCE must first discuss all the violent actions of the

so-called members of the “maidan”, recognise the coup d’etat in Kiev as illegal and start planned,

consistent work to assist the different political forces in Ukraine in the implementation of the

Agreement of the 21 February.

We do not understand and are deeply disappointed by the statements of some members of the

Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, who do not actually stoop to saying, whilst really

meaning, that it would be “desirable” to stop interaction with Russian parliamentarians in the PACE

by depriving them of the right to vote or of any authorisations, while those, who are truly far from

real life threaten that Russia may be excommunicated from the Council of Europe. We hope that

the position of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe will maintain a responsible and

sufficiently balanced approach, based on a sober assessment of the situation and a readiness to

open dialogue.

We expect that common sense will prevail in European and Atlantic European organisations and

they will be able to implement their principal role to achieve more European unity. We hope that

the European Union, which is attempting to play the leading role in Ukraine, although not always

successfully, will not take any steps, which may disrupt trust in it as a strategic partner.

 Details:  http://www.mid.ru/brp_4.nsf/0/370A01FB82D770EA44257C9900613CD6

 7 March 2014 - The United States – U.S. Embassy to Assist Ukraine with Asset Recovery

The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv is pleased to announce that following-up Secretary Kerry’s

announcement, the United States has deployed an interagency team of experts to Kyiv to begin

working with their Ukrainian counterparts to identify assets that may have been stolen by the

Yanukovych regime.  The full team is now on the ground.  These experts are in contact with their

counterparts within the Ukrainian government and will assist Ukrainian investigators in

documenting stolen assets and identifying their current location, in order to facilitate the future

return of assets to Ukraine.  While asset recovery is a lengthy and complicated process, we are

happy to be able to contribute to the effort.

 Details:  http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/ukraine-assist.html

7 March 2014 - The European Union – Statement of the Heads of State or Government on Ukraine

 We met today with the Prime Minister of Ukraine Arseniy Yatseniuk who informed us about the

situation in his country. We applaud the courage and resilience shown by the Ukrainian people

these last months and weeks. 

We endorse the conclusions adopted by the Council on 3 March. We strongly condemn the

unprovoked violation of Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity by the Russian Federation

and call on the Russian Federation to immediately withdraw its armed forces to the areas of their

permanent stationing, in accordance with the relevant agreements. We call on the Russian

Federation to enable immediate access for international monitors. The solution to the crisis in

Ukraine must be based on the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine, as

well as the strict adherence to international standards. We consider that the decision by the

Supreme Council of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea to hold a referendum on the future status

of the territory is contrary to the Ukrainian Constitution and therefore illegal. 

The European Union has important relations with Ukraine and the Russian Federation and stands

ready to engage in a frank and open dialogue with them. It has a special responsibility for peace,

stability and prosperity in Europe. We will pursue thesecobjectives using all available channels and

ask the EU representatives to take all necessarycinitiatives. The European Union will also

participate in the multilateral mechanism (contact/coordination group) being prepared to deescalate

the situation which should have as its objectives inter alia to build confidence between the parties,

watch over the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country, protect all citizens against

intimidations, watch over the rights of minorities, help to prepare free and fair elections, and

monitor implementation of agreements and commitments. 

The European Union`s and the Russian Federation`s common objective of a relationship based on

mutual interest and respect of international obligations needs to be promptly restored. It would be a

matter of great regret if the Russian Federation failed to work in that direction, and in particular if it

continued to refuse to participate in a productive dialogue with the Government of Ukraine. We

have today decided to take actions, including those envisaged by the Council on 3 March, notably

to suspend bilateral talks with the Russian Federation on visa matters as well as talks with the

Russian Federation on the New Agreement. We support the decision of the European Members of

the G8 and the EU institutions to suspend their participation in G8 Summit preparations until further

notice. 

The solution to the crisis should be found through negotiations between the Governments of

Ukraine and the Russian Federation, including through potential multilateral mechanisms. Such

negotiations need to start within the next few days and produce results within a limited timeframe.

In the absence of such results the European Union will decide on additional measures, such as

travel bans, asset freezes and the cancellation of the EU-Russia summit. The Commission and the

EEAS will take forward preparatory work on these measures. Any further steps by the Russian

Federation to destabilise the situation in Ukraine would lead to severe and far reaching

consequences for relations between the European Union and its Member States, on the one hand,

and the Russian Federation, on the other hand, which will include a broad range of economic

areas. 

The European Union commends the measured response shown so far by the new Ukrainian

government. We encourage the Ukrainian authorities, through an inclusive process, to pursue their

efforts to ensure free and fair elections, to advance constitutional reform and to investigate all acts

of violence. Efforts should continue to reach out to all Ukrainian regions and population groups and

to ensure full protection of the rights of people belonging to national minorities, drawing on the

expertise of the Council of Europe and the OSCE. 

We stand by Ukraine and commit to provide it with strong financial backing. We welcome the

presentation of the comprehensive assistance package by the Commission and task all relevant

Council bodies to process it rapidly. IMF support will be critical to unlocking assistance from the

European Union. The immediate priority is to restore macroeconomic stability through sound fiscal,

monetary and exchange rate policies. At the same time, we call on the government to launch

urgently an ambitious set of structural reforms, including to fight corruption, enhance transparency.

We welcome the Council decision to freeze and recover assets of persons identified as responsible

for the misappropriation of State funds. We are also prepared to respond immediately to

humanitarian assistance requests. 

The European Union and Ukraine have already taken an important step in deepening our relation

by the initialling of the Association Agreement, including a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade

Area. We reiterate the European Union`s commitment to signing the Association Agreement,

including a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area. As a matter of priority, we will sign very

shortly all the political chapters. The European Union intends to adopt unilateral measures which

would allow Ukraine to benefit substantially from the advantages offered in the Deep and

Comprehensive Free Trade Area. Such measures would entail an offer to apply provisions related

to the import of goods by reducing tariffs and opening tariff rate quotas by so called autonomous

trade measures. 

The European Union reiterates its commitment to enhance people to people contacts between the

citizens of the European Union and Ukraine, i.a. through the visa liberalisation process, in line with

agreed conditions in the framework of the Visa Liberalisation Action Plan. 

Energy and energy security are an important part of the Union`s external relations. We will

continue our efforts to ensure security of supply. We also call for the effective and consistent

implementation of the Third Energy Package by all players in the European energy market. The

European Union also stands ready to assist Ukraine in securing its energy supply through further

diversification, enhanced energy efficiency, and effective interconnections with the European

Union. 

The European Union expresses its objective to further strengthen the political association and

economic integration with Georgia and the Republic of Moldova. We confirm our aim to sign the

Association Agreements, including the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas, which we

initialled in Vilnius last November, no later than at the end of August 2014.

 Details:  http://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/ukraine/press_corner/all_news/news/2014/2014_03_07_01_en.htm

7 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Comment by the Information and Press Department of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the results of the extraordinary session of the European Council on Ukraine

Moscow was puzzled by the results of the extraordinary session of the European Council of the 6

February in Brussels, which was devoted to the situation in Ukraine. It is hard to escape the

impression that volatile approaches prevailed over common sense, which dictates the need to at

least listen to the principled position of the European Union’s strategic partner – Russia.

In this delicate moment, when the international community is using all its efforts to find a solution to

exit the crisis in Ukraine, the European Union has taken an extremely non constructive position,

refusing cooperation with Russia in the areas which are important for the nationals and business

circles of our countries, including liberalisation of the visa regime and conclusion of a new basic

agreement.

We have done large-scale joint work in these areas, we have achieved good progress on

disputable things, however if Brussels thinks that Russia needs successful completion of this work

more than the European Union, it is wrong.

Russia does not accept the language of sanctions and threats however, if they are implemented in

practice, they will not remain unanswered.

 Details:  http://www.mid.ru/brp_4.nsf/0/47FD57A35B8349A944257C9800221EE8

 7 March 2014 - The Russian Federation

Comment by the Information and Press Department of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the consultation session of the UN Security Council on the events in Ukraine

In connection with the recent messages in the mass media, that the UN Security Council allegedly

“considers the Crimean referendum illegal”, we would like to make the following statements.

The discussion of the 6 March in the Security Council was unofficial, and no decision was adopted

as a result of it.

The Deputy UN Secretary-General, Jan Eliasson, who briefed the members of the Council during

the video conference from Kiev, did not touch upon the issue of legitimacy of the referendum in

Crimea.

Moreover, during his daily briefing to journalists immediately before the SC session, the official

envoy of the UN Secretary-General emphasised that UN member states are not competent to

decide on issues of acknowledgement or non-acknowledgement of the legitimacy of referendums.

Thus, the statements that the UNSC considers the referendum about the status of Crimea to be

illegitimate are not true.

 Details:  http://www.mid.ru/brp_4.nsf/0/DEEB0EC8E02DE43E44257C980021F67D

 7 March 2014 - The Russian Federation

Reply by the official representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, Alexander Lukashevich, to the question by the mass media regarding the decision of NATO to suspend cooperation with Russia because of the situation in Ukraine

Question: How has Moscow perceived NATO’sdecision to suspend cooperation with Russia

because of the situation in Ukraine, which was announced on the 5 March?

Answer: The decision of the NATO council to suspend meetings within the framework of practical

cooperation with Russia is evidence of a pretentious and lopsided approach to the analysis of

causes and consequences of the events in Ukraine.

The intent to restrict the work in agreed areas and interaction projects, in responding to the

challenges and threats, which are common for NRC member states – terrorism, piracy, crises,

extremism, natural and man-made disasters, as well as on Afghanistan and Syrian chemical

weapons – is contrary to common sense. NRC has no projects and cooperation programmes,

which would be of interest to Russia or member states of the organisation only.

To develop our “all-weather” political dialogue in the NRC arena, we have provided the necessary

explanations many times, including about the security of the sites of the Black Sea Fleet in Crimea.

However, the reflexes of the past, which did not allow objective understandingof what is

happening, have seemingly prevailed. In our opinion, it is extremely dangerous to bring the “NATO

factor” to the complicated and fragile situation in Ukraine, which creates an additional element of

tension, disrupting the prospects of normalisation of the situation.

 Details:  http://www.mid.ru/brp_4.nsf/0/CF038B592B63978244257C980021D776

 7 March 2014 - The Government of Canada – Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on the situation in Ukraine

 Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement on the situation in Ukraine: 

 “Canada continues to condemn in the strongest terms President Putin’s military invasion of

Ukraine.

 “Today, our Government is taking additional measures to further increase pressure on President

Putin and the Russian Federation to withdraw its troops to their bases by imposing a travel ban

against a number of individuals responsible for threatening the territorial integrity and sovereignty

of Ukraine. This ban will prevent these individuals from travelling to Canada. 

 “We remain extremely concerned about the ongoing crisis and continue to call for Russia to

respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

 Details:   http://pm.gc.ca/eng/news/2014/03/07/statement-prime-minister-canada-situation-ukraine

7 March 2014 - The Government of Japan – Japan’s financial contribution to an OSCE project on national dialogue in Ukraine

 The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is going to conduct a project

conducive to the promotion of national dialogue and protection of minority rights by sending

relevant experts to Ukraine, especially in its Eastern and South-Eastern parts including the

Crimean Peninsula. The Government of Japan decided to make a financial contribution of 100,000

euros to the project whose total cost is estimated to be 250,000 euros.

 Japan strongly expects that the situation in Ukraine will be settled in a peaceful manner, and to

this end, Japan believes that a dialogue for easing the tension and the promotion of transparency

are crucial. In this perspective, Japan highly values a series of the OSCE efforts regarding the

situation in Ukraine and decided to make the financial contribution to this project that particularly

focuses on national dialogue.

The Government of Japan expects that the project will contribute to the promotion of a dialogue

and confidence-building among the parties concerned regarding the situation in Ukraine.

 Details: http://www.mofa.go.jp/press/release/press4e_000223.html

6 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Comment for the mass media by the Russian Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov, summarising the results of his meeting with the US Secretary of State, John Kerry, Rome

 I have had another talk with John Kerry today in Rome, following our contacts in Parisyesterday.

We continued our discussion about the maximum effective contribution to overcoming the crisis in

Ukraine in a lawful manner, according to the constitution, primarily on the basis of the agreements

reached on the 21 February. We have not reached a mutual understanding yet, we wish to get a

deeper understanding of what our partners mean, when they propose to create some international

mechanism, what its compositionwill be. I will highlight again that the main thing for us is to respect

the agreements of the 21 February, primarily those about constitutional reform, the creation of a

national unity government, the holding of elections after the constitutional reform. The second

important aspect is that any process, which may be supported, must be based on the explicit

consent of all Ukrainian regions – primarily, in this case we are concerned about Crimea and other

southeast regions.

 We agreed that we will study the thoughts with regard to specific forthcoming steps, which John

Kerry has delivered to me today. We cannot say to the world community that we have reached an

agreement. When I return to Russia, I will report to the President Vladimir Putin about my talks and

the issues discussed. The President of Russia will make his decision after that.

 Question: Will Russia respond to the sanctions, which have been introduced by the United States

today?

 Sergey Lavrov: I attracted the attention of the US Secretary of State (like I did yesterday in Paris)

to the fact that the atmosphere continues to escalate, there was an announcement about some

closed lists of Russian nationals, who would be banned entry to the United States. He assured me

that there were no such lists, this was only an order. However, this changes nothing. This is a

threat, like there is a threat to freeze the activity of the G8 and the NATO-Russia Council. We need

these structures no more than our partners and the world community do, which is interested in a

normal dialogue between Russia and the West without ultimatum attempts, requests to change our

position unilaterally, which (in the case of Ukraine) the President of Russia stated clearly and in

detail. This position is widely understood in the world. Unfortunately, the information environment is

full of unilateral, semi-hysterical assessments. I told John Kerry (who seemingly understands all

this) yet again that such actions can hardly help in normal work. It is impossible to work fairly under

threats of ultimatums and sanctions.

 Details:  http://www.mid.ru/brp_4.nsf/0/B8B22A790CBF69E844257C98001F84E1  

 6 March 2014 - The Russian Federation – Comment by the official representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, Alexander Lukashevich, regarding the “statements of facts” by the U.S. Department of State about the situation in Ukraine

 The statement posted on the website of the U.S. Department of State containing a “refutation” of

the facts provided by the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, during his press conference on the 4

March about the situation in Ukraine strikes not merely because of its primitive distortion of reality,

but more its cynicism and uncovered “double standards”.

 The Department of State makes an attempt to play on a ruthlessly unilateral interpretation of

events, as if there were notlots of evidence of the atrocities by radical nationalists, including

reprisals against the undesirable in front of TV cameras or provocative murders by snipers, which

are also confirmed by “independent sources”. Of course, Washington cannot admit that they made

up the “maidan”, promoted the overthrowing of legitimate authorities using violence, clearing the

path for those who are now pretending to be legitimate authorities in Kiev.

 We will not sink to polemics with low standard propaganda. We will only say this: we face

unacceptable arrogance and pretence to represent the truth in its last instance again. The United

States have no and cannot have any moral right to moral preaching with regard to observation of

international laws and respect for the sovereignty of other countries. What about the bombings of

the former Yugoslavia or the intrusion into Iraq using a falsified cause?

 If we look at a more distant history, we can find many examples of military interventions by the

United States inplaces, which were located far away from their national borders, when there was

no real threat to the security of the United States. The Vietnam War took the lives of two million of

the local population, without mentioning the totally destroyed country and poisoned environment.

Under the pretext of protecting their nationals, who were in areas of conflict, the United States

intruded into Lebanon in 1958, into the Dominican Republic – in 1965, attacked tiny Grenada in

1983, bombed Libya in 1986, and occupied Panama three years later. Nevertheless they dare to

rebuke Russia for “armed aggression”, when it intervenes on behalf of its compatriots, who make

up the majority of the Crimean population, not to let ultranationalist forces organise another bloody

“maidan”.

 It is evident that Washington is still not able to adequately perceive the development of events, if

they go against American templates. They cannot overcome themselves, accept that it is not

possible to always dictate their own will everywhere and play their usual role of an “infallible judge”,

who has the last word. They freak out, yet it is not a good cause for unfair shifting of the blame.

 Details:   http://www.mid.ru/brp_4.nsf/0/1051EAE31ECEA91F44257C98001F63B9

 6 March 2014 - The Russian Federation - Comment by the Russian Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov, summarising the results of his meeting with the US Secretary of State, John Kerry, Paris, 5 March 2013

 I would like to briefly say that we have conducted a meeting with the US Secretary of State, John

Kerry, on the situation in Ukraine and with regard to the actions, which our partners are attempting

to take within the ambit of the OSCE in other international organisations – actions, which do not

contribute to the creation of an atmosphere of dialogue and constructive cooperation. John Kerry

admitted that we should create such an atmosphere and that in conditions of threats and

ultimatums it is hard to deal with fair agreements, which will in turn help the Ukrainian people to

stabilise the situation. We agreed that we need to help all the Ukrainians to implement the

agreements reached on the 21 February. We are now heading for the French Ministry of Foreign

Affairs, where other participants in the process are waiting for us, including the French, Polish and

German foreign ministers, who signed off and certified the signature on the agreement of the 21

February, in Kiev.

 Details:   http://www.mid.ru/brp_4.nsf/0/78DD1D3E244DF7CC44257C9A003005B9

6 March 2014 - The European Commission – European Commission`s support to Ukraine

This document sets out the main concrete measures that the Commission is proposing for the

short and medium term to help stabilise the economic and financial situation in Ukraine, assist with

the transition, encourage political and economic reforms and support inclusive development for the

benefit of all Ukrainians. These measures combined could bring overall support of at least €11

billion over the coming years from the EU budget and EU based international financial institutions

(IFIs) in addition to the significant funding being provided by the IMF and World Bank.

All these measures should be seen as the Commission`s contribution to a European and

international effort at providing a sustainable way out of Ukraine`s difficult economic situation and

to support its economic and political transition. The action of Member States in complementing and

reinforcing what the Commission can mobilise on its own is crucial. The participation of partner

countries as well as of the international financial institutions, notably the IMF, the EIB, the EBRD

and the World Bank, is essential to leverage what we can all offer, increase the visibility of our

collective action and improve its impact. All elements and instruments need to be pulled together to

ensure an effective and coherent European Union and international response.

Part of the EU`s effort is to support Ukraine on its path towards political and economic reform,

including those set out in the Association Agreement /Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area

(AA/DCFTA), which we stand ready to sign. It is essential to raise public awareness in Ukraine as

well as in third countries on the benefits and opportunities that such reforms can offer both for

Ukraine and the region as a whole.

Key elements of the package: • €3 billion from the EU budget in the coming years, €1.6 billion in

macro financial assistance loans (MFA) and an assistance package of grants of €1.4 billion; • Up to

€8 billion from the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and

Development; • Potential €3.5 billion leveraged through the Neighbourhood Investment Facility; •

Setting up of a donor coordination platform; • Provisional application of the Deep and

Comprehensive Free Trade Area when Association Agreement is signed and, if need be, by

autonomous frontloading of trade measures; • Organisation of a High Level Investment

Forum/Task Force; • Modernisation of the Ukraine Gas Transit System and work on reverse flows,

notably via Slovakia; • Acceleration of Visa Liberalisation Action Plan within the established

framework; Offer of a Mobility Partnership; • Technical assistance on a number of areas from

constitutional to judicial reform and preparation of elections.

ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE: Economic support takes the form of both macro

financial and development assistance. The Commission is ready to mobilise some €3 billion from

the EU budget in the coming years with the undertaking that a substantial amount of money can be

made rapidly available to help Ukraine address its more urgent needs, including stabilising the

financial situation and supporting the functioning of the new administration.

Macro-Financial Assistance: A total of €1.6 billion is foreseen for macro financial assistance (MFA).

In the short term, the Commission is ready to mobilise €610 million in loans under MFA which has

already been agreed but is conditional on the signature of an agreement between the government

and the IMF. The Commission is willing to propose further MFA of up to €1 billion. The

Commission has already deployed a mission on the ground to assess Ukraine`s financial needs

and to prepare the ground for such MFA. This team is working closely with the IMF. 

Development assistance: Over the next seven years, a development assistance package to

Ukraine in the form of grants could amount to a minimum of €1.4 billion.

The Commission is currently preparing a new €140 million programme for 2014 that would aim at

improving the financial capability of the government and support the institutional transition, thus

reinforcing the foreseen impact of the MFA. This would be complemented by actions aimed at

supporting civil society. The size of such a programme could be increased up to €200 million if

there were to be redeployment from within the European Neighbourhood Instrument (ENI) and if

Ukraine were to benefit from the umbrella programme ("more for more") on the basis of proven

progress in deepening democracy and respect of human rights.

For the remaining period of 2015-2020, a yearly bilateral envelope of approximately €130 million is

currently foreseen as part of the ENI with an additional €40-50 million per year from the afore-

mentioned umbrella programme ("more-for-more") subject to proven progress in deepening

democracy and respect of human rights and further significant funding from the Neighbourhood

Investment Facility (NIF) described below.

As far as existing programmes are concerned, the Commission is currently funding a number of

on-going sector budget support and technical assistance programmes which will provide input to

the new Government in key areas such as economic development, public financial management

and justice. This represents approximately€400 million.

In addition, the NIF will be mobilised in favour of bankable investment projects in Ukraine.

Experience with the implementation of the NIF in the East over the past programming period has

shown that, for an amount of€200-250 million of grants foreseen for Ukraine for blending, one

could expect a leverage effect that would generate loans of up to €3.5 billion. The participation of

International Financing Institutions (IFIs) will be crucial to allow this leveraging and to exploit its full

potential. Within the NIF framework, the Commission is now working on the possibility of setting up

a dedicated window to support the implementation of the AA/DCFTA for the relevant countries.

This would allow our partners to have access to a guaranteed and dedicated envelope to support

investment in sectors crucial for modernisation and the adoption of EU standards (in areas such as

environment and energy). We are also looking at using this facility to further leverage the

investment opportunities in the private sector.

The Instrument contributing to Stability and Peace (IcSP), formerly the Instrument for Stability,

could be deployed to target urgent actions, for example, on police reform and electoral support. Up

to €20 million could be mobilised quickly if appropriate actions are identified and a further €15

million could be added from the CFSP budget to support measures in relation to security sector

reform. Finally, Ukraine is the most important country for the EU for operations in the area of

nuclear safety and security. Currently, projects are being implemented under the Instrument for

Nuclear Safety Cooperation for a total amount of €50 million, in the field of nuclear waste

management and social projects in the affected area around the Chernobyl exclusion zone. In

addition, a further envelope of €36.5 million can be contracted in the very short term for actions in

this field. The programming period for the new financial period is on-going, which will allow the EU

efforts in this area to be further stepped up.

The Commission reiterates its readiness to establish an EU Trust Fund should Member States

support such an initiative. This would create a vehicle that would allow Member States to make

substantial further financial contributions and would increase the visibility of the EU, including its

Member States, and contribute to an effective, swift and coordinated disbursement of funds.

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the EU`s own policy-driven bank and already has a project

pipeline in Ukraine of up to €1.5 billion for the next three years. The EIB could significantly scale

this up, without diverting from other regions, if adequate guarantee provisions were to be granted

and if the political and operational conditions allow. The EIB could then provide financing for long-

term investments of up to €3 billion for 2014 – 2016 in support of both the local private sector and

economic and social infrastructure. After the Mid-Term Review of the EIB External Lending

Mandate planned by end 2016, the EIB could further increase its activity until 2020 via the

activation of the €3 billion optional mandate already foreseen, subject to the agreement of

additional funding by the budgetary authority.

In its operations, the EIB works closely together with the other IFIs active in the region thereby

contributing to a significant leverage effect. The Commission will also explore the opportunity for

ring fencing and front loading some of the additional guarantees for the EIB funds secured with the

FEMIP reflows for AA/DCFTA related lending.

For its part, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is an IFI in which the

EU and its Member States account for a majority of the shareholding. As part of a coordinated

financial assistance programme in support of credible structural and macroeconomic reforms, the

EBRD could make €5 billionavailable over the same period, though that amount could be

exceeded if economic circumstances permit.

INTERNATIONAL DONOR CO-ORDINATION MECHANISM: The Commission remains in close

contact with both the IMF and the World Bank on the ground in Ukraine and at Headquarters. In

order to help ensure effective delivery and maximise the impact of the EU economic and

development assistance described above, as well as heighten its visibility, the Commission is

exploring avenues to enhance international donor coordination by setting up, together with the

international community and IFIs, an ad hoc donor coordination mechanism.

Such a mechanism could take work forward on the basis of a needs assessment and of the reform

programme prepared by the Ukrainian authorities, and provide a sustainable way out of Ukraine’s

difficult economic situation supporting economic and political transition.

This donor coordination mechanism could take the form of an international platform based in Kiev

which would meet regularly to closely coordinate donor efforts to address the economic situation of

the country. The political guidance will be provided by high level coordination meetings of the

international platform. The Commission is willing to host the meetings in Brussels. This mechanism

is open to the participation, namely, of EU Member States, IMF, World Bank, EBRD, EIB, and

interested third countries. EU participation would be led on the ground by the EU Delegation.

TRADE AND INVESTMENT: While economic and financial assistance are essential, trade and

investment are also key instruments in helping secure long term sustainability for Ukraine. All

Ukrainians stand to benefit enormously from the ambitious DCFTA trade deal with the EU. For

example, Ukrainian exporters will save almost half a billion euros annually due to reduced EU

import duties; Ukrainian agriculture will benefit from cuts in duties on agricultural and processed

agricultural products of almost €400 million. The different levels of economic development of the

EU and Ukraine are reflected by the asymmetrical nature of the Agreement. It is designed to

provide Ukraine with favourable treatment, for example, through the faster and broader opening of

the EU market by the front loading of tariff dismantlement granted by the EU combined with a

longer period for similar measures on the Ukrainian side.

The Commission stands ready to react quickly to ensure the rapid provisional application of the

AA/DCFTA once a decision on its signature has been made.

In the meantime, the Commission is ready to offer the early application of those provisions of the

agreement related to the imports of goods (i.e. the reduction of tariffs and opening of tariff rate

quotas) by proposing a draft Council/Parliament Regulation on such so called `autonomous trade

measures`. These transitional trade measures, unilateral in nature from the EU side, would allow

Ukraine to benefit substantially from many of the advantages offered by the Agreement already

now, that is to say, in the period until it could be signed and provisionally applied. However, the

rapid implementation of such support measures would require a clear commitment by the Council

and the EP to fast track the approval process.

As part of the effort to mobilise all of its assets and instruments in support of Ukraine at this

exceptional time,the High Representative and the Commission are also ready to convene a High

level Investment Forum/Task Force to explore investment and co-operation possibilities in Ukraine.

This should bring together a wide range of private and public economic actors, Ukrainian and EU

and IFIs together with the host country to maximise their collective impact and ensure a

sustainable, democratic and prosperous future for the people of Ukraine. Such an event would also

provide an opportunity to help Ukraine to maximise the benefits of autonomous trade measures

and the AA/DCFTA.

ENERGY AND TRANSPORT: Energy and energy security, and affordable prices, are essential for

the stability and security of Ukraine. The EU will work with the new government in Ukraine,

including through budget support, to ensure long term diversification of supplies and to make sure

that the Ukrainian gas transmission system continues to be an essential transit route for gas

supplies to the Europe. As such, the Commission will continue to work with the government in

Ukraine to modernise its gas transmission system in co-operation with the EIB, EBRD and World

Bank, as gas sector reforms in line with the Energy Community commitments are carried out.

Provided that certain conditions are fulfilled, an initial loan could be possible in the near future.

In the short term, the Commission is ready to assist Ukraine in diversifying its gas supply routes,

notably by ensuring that reverse flows with the EU, notably via Slovakia (in addition to Poland and

Hungary as is currently the case), can be operationalised as soon as possible. The Commission

should ensure, together with Slovakia, that the Ukrainian and Slovakian transmission system

operators establish the necessary rules and process that allows gas to flow from EU to Ukraine in

increased capacities in order to enhance the security of supply in Ukraine. The text of a

Memorandum of Understanding between the transmission system operators of Slovakia and

Ukraine for the physical reverse flow via the Ukraine-Slovak pipeline was brokered by the

Commission in December 2013 but was not signed. The Commission is ready to facilitate the

signature by the two operators if requested. The Commission remains committed to continue

working with the relevant Member States to facilitate the creation of additional reverse flow

corridors to Ukraine via Bulgaria and Romania and via Croatia and Hungary.

In the medium term, should circumstances allow, the Commission continues to be ready to

promote a trilateral approach (between EU, Russia and Ukraine) for the modernisation of the

Ukrainian gas transmission system.

With regard to transport, following the initialling of the EU-Ukraine Common Aviation Area

Agreement at the Eastern Partnership Summit in Vilnius, the Commission is advancing rapidly in

preparatory work to allow the Council to take a decision on the signature of the Agreement and

stands ready for its early implementation. The Commission is determined to continue working on

the enhancement of the EU-Ukraine transport relations, in particular in the framework of the

Eastern Partnership Transport Panel.

MOBILITY: Mobility is an important area where the Commission believes meaningful, visible, short-

term steps should be taken. While a number of them depend on the political decisions of the

Member States, the Commission is willing and ready to pro-actively facilitate swift and efficient

coordination in this area. The Commission fully recognises the importance of mobility and people-

to-people contacts for Ukrainian citizens and will support Ukrainian efforts to move forward the visa

liberalisation process as quickly as possible in line with the agreed conditions of the Visa

Liberalisation Action Plan. Progress will of course depend on how the new authorities are able to

tackle the most important outstanding issues. However, the Commission can and will do its

outmost to help solve the remaining issues in an accelerated manner. Completing the visa

liberalisation process will lead to the abolition of the visa obligation for Ukrainian citizens wishing to

travel to the Schengen zone for up to 90 days within 180 days. In the meantime, a Visa Facilitation

Agreement (VFA) is in operation between the EU and Ukraine and the Commission encourages

Member States to fully exploit its potential. It gives Member States the possibility of choosing from

a series of measures, including waiving visa fees for certain categories of citizens. In addition, the

Visa Code gives the Member States additional options to waive the visa fees for further categories,

such as, for example, children.

In addition, the Commission is willing, subject to the agreement of Member States, to offer Ukraine

a Mobility Partnership promoting people-to-people contacts and legal migration options, and

offering a framework for cooperation and practical support to the Ukrainian authorities going

beyond the visa liberalisation process. Such a Mobility Partnership could be established very

quickly should there be an interest on the Ukraine side to do so.

PEOPLE TO PEOPLE LINKS AND EDUCATION: Under the new Erasmus+ programme, the EU

will offer more opportunities for student mobility, academic cooperation and youth exchanges. The

Erasmus programme will support short-term student mobility in both directions to obtain credits in a

host institution, which are then recognised by the home institution. It is estimated that more than

4,000 young Ukrainians will benefit from university exchanges under Erasmus+, and more than

7,000 will take part in youth projects and exchanges.

Staff mobility for training and teaching will also be promoted. Ukrainian students and universities

will be able to participate in high-level joint Master degrees offered by consortia of European

universities. Capacity building measures will be offered to universities, to modernise curricula,

teaching practices, upgrade facilities and improve governance. Erasmus + will also fund youth

mobility through youth exchanges, European Voluntary Service and mobility of youth workers.

Ukraine will continue to take part in eTwinning for schools, with 101 schools and 280 teachers

already registered since the official launch in March 2013. Researchers will be able to apply for

doctoral or post-doctoral fellowships of other research grants available under the Marie

Sklodowska Curie actions.

ADDITIONAL ACTIONS: More broadly, the Commission remains committed to helping Ukraine

build institutions which serve the interests of the state and the people by promoting good

governance, rule of law and fighting corruption, etc. Making these institutions fit for purpose is not

just an end in itself, but also a means to securing the country’s medium and long term

development, both socially and economically. Support for sustainable economic and political

transition will also require grants providing technical expertise in many of the areas outlined in this

paper.

In addition to this, the Commission and the High Representative will continue to provide support

forconstitutional reform, together with the Council of Europe and the Venice Commission.

Assistance to support reform of the Prosecutor`s Office and of the police through the EU-Ukraine

Judiciary Reform Dialogue is also on-going. In addition, in the area of electoral assistance, the

possibility of providing electoral support and technical assistance, including to monitoring in the

context of an OSCE-ODHIR Electoral Observation Mission for future elections is being explored.

- Restrictive measures: The EU has demonstrated that it can act in a rapid and flexible manner to

adopt the necessary relevant legislation. The Commission presented its proposal on Monday 24

February and is about to be adopted by the Council, updated to reflect the changing reality on the

ground so as to now focus on the freezing and recovery of assets of persons identified as

responsible for the misappropriation of State funds. The Commission stands ready to come

forward with more proposals if and when necessary.

- Humanitarian aid and civil protection: The Commission has opened an antenna office in Kiev to

monitor the situation and provide information, including to Member States, on humanitarian and

civil protection issues. This office is in touch with with all main relief and aid organisations to

coordinate any possible future activities and carry out contingency planning. The Commission

stands ready to provide assistance from the EU Civil Protection Mechanism should Ukraine

request it. In anticipation, the Commission has already asked Participating States to the

Mechanism to take stock of possible medical related offers of assistance.

 Details:   http://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/ukraine/press_corner/all_news/news/2014/2014_03_06_02_en.htm

6 March 2014 - The United States – Executive Order Blocking Property of Certain Persons Contributing to the Situation in Ukraine

THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary 

For Immediate Release 

March 6, 2014

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of

America, including the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.)

(IEEPA), the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.) (NEA), section 212(f) of the

Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952 (8 U.S.C. 1182(f)), and section 301 of title 3, United States

Code, 

I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, find that the actions and policies of

persons -- including persons who have asserted governmental authority in the Crimean region

without the authorization of the Government of Ukraine -- that undermine democratic processes

and institutions in Ukraine; threaten its peace, security, stability, sovereignty, and territorial

integrity; and contribute to the misappropriation of its assets, constitute an unusual and

extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States, and I hereby

declare a national emergency to deal with that threat. I hereby order: 

Section 1. (a) All property and interests in property that are in the United States, that hereafter

come within the United States, or that are or hereafter come within the possession or control of any

United States person (including any foreign branch) of the following persons are blocked and may

not be transferred, paid, exported, withdrawn, or otherwise dealt in: any person determined by the

Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of State: 

            (i) to be responsible for or complicit in, or to have engaged in, directly or indirectly, any of

the following: 

                        (A) actions or policies that undermine democratic processes or institutions in

Ukraine; 

                        (B) actions or policies that threaten the peace, security, stability, sovereignty, or

territorial integrity of Ukraine; or 

                        (C) misappropriation of state assets of Ukraine or of an economically significant

entity in Ukraine; 

            (ii) to have asserted governmental authority over any part or region of Ukraine without the

authorization of the Government of Ukraine; 

            (iii) to be a leader of an entity that has, or whose members have, engaged in any activity

described in subsection (a)(i) or (a)(ii) of this section or of an entity whose property and interests in

property are blocked pursuant to this order; 

            (iv) to have materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological

support for, or goods or services to or in support of, any activity described in subsection (a)(i) or (a)

(ii) of this section or any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to

this order; or 

            (v) to be owned or controlled by, or to have acted or purported to act for or on behalf of,

directly or indirectly, any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to

this order. 

(b) The prohibitions in subsection (a) of this section apply except to the extent provided by statutes,

or in regulations, orders, directives, or licenses that may be issued pursuant to this order, and

notwithstanding any contract entered into or any license or permit granted prior to the effective

date of this order. 

Sec. 2. I hereby find that the unrestricted immigrant and nonimmigrant entry into the United States

of aliens determined to meet one or more of the criteria in subsection 1(a) of this order would be

detrimental to the interests of the United States, and I hereby suspend entry into the United States,

as immigrants or nonimmigrants, of such persons. Such persons shall be treated as persons

covered by section 1 of Proclamation 8693 of July 24, 2011 (Suspension of Entry of Aliens Subject

to United Nations Security Council Travel Bans and International Emergency Economic Powers

Act Sanctions). 

Sec. 3. I hereby determine that the making of donations of the type of articles specified in section

203(b)(2) of IEEPA (50 U.S.C. 1702(b)(2)) by, to, or for the benefit of any person whose property

and interests in property are blocked pursuant to section 1 of this order would seriously impair my

ability to deal with the national emergency declared in this order, and I hereby prohibit such

donations as provided by section 1 of this order. 

Sec. 4. The prohibitions in section 1 of this order include but are not limited to: 

(a) the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit

of any person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to this order; and 

(b) the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person.  

Sec. 5. (a) Any transaction that evades or avoids, has the purpose of evading or avoiding, causes

a violation of, or attempts to violate any of the prohibitions set forth in this order is prohibited. 

(b) Any conspiracy formed to violate any of the prohibitions set forth in this order is prohibited. 

Sec. 6. For the purposes of this order: 

(a) the term "person" means an individual or entity; 

(b) the term "entity" means a partnership, association, trust, joint venture, corporation, group,

subgroup, or other organization; and 

(c) the term "United States person" means any United States citizen, permanent resident alien,

entity organized under the laws of the United States or any jurisdiction within the United States

(including foreign branches), or any person in the United States. 

Sec. 7. For those persons whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to this

order who might have a constitutional presence in the United States, I find that because of the

ability to transfer funds or other assets instantaneously, prior notice to such persons of measures

to be taken pursuant to this order would render those measures ineffectual. I therefore determine

that for these measures to be effective in addressing the national emergency declared in this order,

there need be no prior notice of a listing or determination made pursuant to section 1 of this order. 

Sec. 8. The Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of State, is hereby

authorized to take such actions, including the promulgation of rules and regulations, and to employ

all powers granted to the President by IEEPA, as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of

this order. The Secretary of the Treasury may redelegate any of these functions to other officers

and agencies of the United States Government consistent with applicable law. All agencies of the

United States Government are hereby directed to take all appropriate measures within their

authority to carry out the provisions of this order. 

Sec. 9. The Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of State, is hereby

authorized to submit the recurring and final reports to the Congress on the national emergency

declared in this order, consistent with section 401(c) of the NEA (50 U.S.C. 1641(c)) and section

204(c) of IEEPA (50 U.S.C. 1703(c)). 

Sec. 10. This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or

procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments,

agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person. 

BARACK OBAMA 

THE WHITE HOUSE, 

March 6, 2014.

 Details:  http://ukraine.usembassy.gov/statements/exec-order-03062014.html

6 March 2014 - The European Union / NATO – EU and NATO committees meet jointly to discuss Ukraine

The European Union`s Political and Security Committee (PSC) and NATO`s North Atlantic Council

(NAC) held a joint informal meeting today to discuss the situation in Ukraine, ahead of the meeting

of EU heads of State or government tomorrow.

The discussions underlined the seriousness of the crisis and showed the convergence of views in

both organisations in upholding Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity, the need for a

dialogue between Ukraine and Russia as well as de-escalating steps in view of a peaceful solution

to the crisis in full respect of international law as laid down in bi-and multilateral commitments.

Ambassadors had an exchange of views on the various dimensions of the crisis in Ukraine and the

options for the response of the International Community.

Background

The PSC and the NAC are the bodies respectively of the EU and NATO at ambassador level

responsible for monitoring the international situation.

PSC-NAC meetings are an integral part of the continuous political dialogue between the EU and

NATO, including the so-called “Berlin Plus” arrangements and informal meetings. They formally

meet on EUFOR Althea, the operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina making use of NATO common

assets and capabilities.

 Details:  http://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/ukraine/press_corner/all_news/news/2014/2014_03_06_01_en.htm

The United States – Statement by the White House Press Secretary on Ukraine

As President Obama has made clear, the United States is pursuing and reviewing a wide range of

options in response to Russia’s ongoing violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity –

actions that constitute a threat to peace and security and a breach of international law, including

Russia’s obligations under the UN Charter and of its 1997 military basing agreement with Ukraine,

and that are inconsistent with the 1994 Budapest Memorandum and the Helsinki Final Act.

Pursuant to the President’s guidance, today the State Department is putting in place visa

restrictions on a number of officials and individuals, reflecting a policy decision to deny visas to

those responsible for or complicit in threatening the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. 

This new step stands in addition to the policy already implemented to deny visas to those involved

in human rights abuses related to political oppression in Ukraine.

In addition, the President has signed an Executive Order that authorizes sanctions on individuals

and entities responsible for activities undermining democratic processes or institutions in Ukraine;

threatening the peace, security, stability, sovereignty, or territorial integrity of Ukraine; contributing

to the misappropriation of state assets of Ukraine; or purporting to assert governmental authority

over any part of Ukraine without authorization from the Ukrainian government in Kyiv.  This E.O. is

a flexible tool that will allow us to sanction those who are most directly involved in destabilizing

Ukraine, including the military intervention in Crimea, and does not preclude further steps should

the situation deteriorate.

These actions build upon the previous actions the United States has taken, including suspending

bilateral discussions with Russia on trade and investment; suspending other bilateral meetings on

a case-by-case basis; putting on hold U.S.-Russia military-to-military engagement, including

exercises, bilateral meetings, port visits, and planning conferences; and our agreement with G-7

nations to suspend for the time being our participation in activities associated with the preparation

of the scheduled G-8 Summit in Sochi in June.  Depending on how the situation develops, the

United States is prepared to consider additional steps and sanctions as necessary.

At the same time, as the President has said, we seek to work with all parties to achieve a

diplomatic solution that de-escalates the situation and restores Ukraine’s sovereignty.  We call on

Russia to take the opportunity before it to resolve this crisis through direct and immediate dialogue

with the Government of Ukraine, the immediate pull-back of Russia’s military forces to their bases,

the restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity, and support for the urgent deployment of

international observers and human rights monitors who can assure that the rights of all Ukrainians

are protected, including ethnic Russians, and who can support the Ukrainian government’s efforts

to hold a free and fair election on May 25.

As we follow developments in Ukraine closely, the United States reaffirms its unwavering

commitment toour collective defense commitments under the North Atlantic Treaty.  We will

continue to pursue measures that reinforce those commitments, to include the provision of

additional support to NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission and our aviation detachment in Poland.

 Details:  http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2014/03/06/statement-press-secretary-ukraine

 6 March 2014 – NATO – Opening Remarks by the NATO Secretary Generalby the NATO Secretary General at the Joint Press Point with the Prime Minister of Ukraine, Arsenii Yatseniuk

Prime Minister,

It really is a great pleasure to welcome you to NATO Headquarters.

Ukraine is a valued and long-standing partner for NATO.

In these difficult moments, NATO stands by Ukraine.  NATO stands by the right of every nation to

decide its own future. NATO stands by Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and by the

fundamental principles of international law. 

And this is not just about Ukraine. This crisis has serious implications for the security and stability

of the Euro-Atlantic area as a whole. We clearly face the gravest threat to European security since

the end of the Cold War.

And your sovereignty, your independence, and your territorial integrity are key factors for stability

and security in the region.

Our NATO-Ukraine Commission already enjoys an extensive framework for cooperation and

assistance. Within this framework, we have decided to intensify our partnership, and strengthen

our cooperation to support democratic reforms.

We will step up our engagement with Ukraine’s political and military leadership, as we are doing

just now.

We will strengthen our efforts to build the capacity of the Ukrainian military, including with more

joint training and exercises.

And we will do more to include Ukraine in our cutting-edge multinational projects to develop

capabilities.

The people of Ukraine have shown great determination and great courage. Your armed forces

have shown great restraint, in the face of tremendous pressure.

I fully commend that restraint. Because cool heads are key to de-escalation.

We stress the importance of an inclusive political process, based on democratic values, respect for

human rights, minorities and the rule of law, which fulfils the democratic aspirations of the entire

Ukrainian people.   

Above all, we call on Russia to honour its international commitments and halt the military

escalation in Crimea. We call on Russia to withdraw its forces to their bases, and to refrain from

any interference elsewhere in Ukraine.  There should be no attempt to draw new lines on the map

of Europe in the 21st century. 

Let me stress that we see a political solution as the only way forward. And we support international

efforts to find that way forward through the dispatch of international observers and a peaceful

dialogue. 

 Details:  http://www.nato.int/cps/en/natolive/opinions_107842.htm

6 March 2014 - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey – Press Release Regarding the Latest Developments in Crimea

The Parliament of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea of Ukraine has adopted a resolution to hold

a referendum on 16 March 2014 regarding the status of Crimea,.We have been emphasizing that

the political crisis in Ukraine should be settled on the basis of political unity and territorial integrity

of the country, within the framework of democratic principles and in accordance with international

law and agreements. Also, underlining the particular sensitivity of the Autonomous Republic of

Crimea hosting our kinsmen the Crimean Tatars, we called on all relevant parties to act in restraint

and common sense to ease the tension in Crimea.With this understanding, we believe this

resolution of the said referendum will not contribute to the settlement of the crisis in the country.

We consider this resolution as a dangerous and wrong step that may create negative results in the

region and beyond; and that may lead to serious breakups among different groups in Crimea.We

reiterate once more on this occasion that the settlement to the political crisis in Ukraine can not be

reached through faits accomplis, but through reconciliation and dialog on the abovementioned

basis.

 Details:  http://www.mfa.gov.tr/no_-77_-6-march-2014_-press-release-regarding-the-latest-developments-in-crimea.en.mfa

6 March 2014 - The Government of Canada – Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on the situation in Ukraine

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement in response to news that on

March 16 the Parliament of Crimea will hold a referendum on joining Russia:

“Russia`s invasion of Ukraine is an act of aggression, a clear violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty,

and of international law. Canada will not recognize a referendum held in a region currently under

illegal military occupation.

“We will continue to view the situation in Ukraine with the gravest concern and will continue to

cooperate closely with our G-7 partners and like-minded allies.”  

 Details: http://pm.gc.ca/eng/news/2014/03/06/statement-prime-minister-canada-situation-ukraine#sthash.dxg6Sybg.dpuf

6 March 2014 - The Government of Poland / The People`s Republic of China – Foreign ministers of Poland and China speak by phone

  The two ministers have emphasized their concern over the situation in Ukraine. China’s top

diplomat assured that Beijing is against interfering in internal affairs of any country, and supports

respecting territorial integrity and sovereignty of all states, including Ukraine.

The chief of Chinese diplomacy thanked his Polish counterpart for a comprehensive briefing on

developments in Ukraine, and applauded Poland’s role in brokering the agreement of 21 February,

which put an end to the violence in Ukraine. 

Minister Wang Yi expressed  hope that the efforts the European Union, including Poland, are

undertaking in many fields will help forge a political agreement, prevent further escalation of the

situation in Ukraine, and make  sanctions  unnecessary. 

Minister Wang Yi also said he was confident that the 65 th anniversary of establishing diplomatic

relations between Poland and China will afford an opportunity for the strategic partnership between

our countries to become more mature. 

Speaking to his Chinese counterpart, Radosław Sikorski expressed his sympathy with the families

of victims who had suffered in the terrorist attack at the Kunming railway station.

 Details:  http://www.msz.gov.pl/en/news/foreign_ministers_of_poland_and_china_speak_by_phone

6 March 2014 - The Parliament of Moldova – Moldovan Parliament supports the Supreme Rada from Kiev

The Parliament approved today, March 6 a statement expressing concern about developments in

Ukraine. The Moldovan Parliament expresses solidarity with the Ukrainian Parliament in the effort

to ensure stability and the European future of Ukraine.

This Declaration points to the importance of observing the principles of international law,

sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.

At the same time, the Parliament  urges the United Nations, the Organization for Security and Co-

operation in Europe (OSCE), the European Union,the Commonwealth of Independent States to

make use of all instruments of international law and mediation mechanisms, in order not to allow

conflict escalation and ensure peace and stability in Ukraine and throughout the region.

 Details: http://trm.md/en/politic/parlamentul-moldovei-este-solidar-cu-rada-suprema-de-la-kiev/