NATO is reacting to the referendums that are currently being organized in the regions of Ukraine that are under Russian occupation, or of the separatists, being in agreement with all the states and international democratic organizations that say they will not recognize their results.
1. We condemn in the strongest possible terms the plan to hold so-called "referendums" on joining the Russian Federation in the Ukrainian regions partially controlled by the Russian military. As the UN General Assembly reaffirmed in its "Aggression against Ukraine" resolution adopted on March 2, 2022, no territorial acquisition resulting from the threat or use of force will be recognized as legal.
Allies do not and will never recognize Russia's illegal and illegitimate annexation of Crimea. Fake referendums in Ukraine's Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhia and Kherson regions have no legitimacy and will constitute a flagrant violation of the UN Charter. NATO allies will not recognize their illegal and illegitimate annexation. These lands are Ukraine. We call on all states to reject Russia's blatant attempts at territorial conquest.
2. These Russian decisions, including regarding a partial military mobilization, represent a further escalation of Russia's illegal war against Ukraine. We continue to reject Russia's irresponsible nuclear rhetoric. Russia bears full responsibility for the war, the immense suffering its aggression is bringing to the Ukrainian people, as well as the cost of its war, including to the Russian people who are now mobilized. Russia has in its hands to end the conflict. Russia must immediately stop this war and withdraw from Ukraine.
3. We reaffirm our unwavering support for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders and for Ukraine's inherent right to self-defense. NATO allies remain committed to providing political and practical support to Ukraine as it continues to defend itself against Russian aggression.
4. NATO is a defensive Alliance and will continue to fight for peace, security and stability throughout the Euro-Atlantic area. We are united to defend and protect every inch of Allied territory.
Statement by the North Atlantic Council on the so-called "referendum" in parts of # Ukraine (I.e.
- NATO (@NATO) September 22, 2022
