International recognition of the Donetsk People's Republic and the Luhansk People's Republic

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The area held by the Donetsk People's Republic (in black, striped area being the rest of the Donetsk Oblast) and the Luhansk People's Republic (in blue, striped area being the rest of the Luhansk Oblast) within Ukraine. Russian-annexed Crimea is also shown as striped.
Vladimir Putin signs decrees recognizing the DPR and LPR and treaties of friendship, cooperation and mutual assistance, 21 February 2022

The Donetsk People's Republic and the Luhansk People's Republic are disputed territories in Donbas. The central government of Ukraine regards the republics as being under terrorist control.

Both declared independence from Ukraine following an unofficial status referendum in May 2014. Shortly thereafter, both self-proclaimed states merged to form the short-lived confederation of Novorossiya which was suspended a year later. Also in 2014, South Ossetia, a similar breakaway separatist republic, recognized the independence of both states. As of 21 February 2022, the two republics were recognized as independent states by the Russian Federation[1] and on 25 February 2022, Syria became the second United Nations (UN) member state to recognize Donetsk and Luhansk as sovereign states.[2]

Map of the international diplomatic situation of the Donetsk and Luhansk people's republics.
  Official recognition of the Donetsk and Luhansk people's republics
  Support for Russian recognition of the independence of the republics
  Support for Ukrainian territorial integrity, but no condemnation of Russian recognition
  Condemnation of Russian recognition of independence

History and current state

The Donbas status referendums in May 2014 were not officially recognized by the Ukrainian government or any UN member state.[3]

In November 2014, representatives of Novorossiya sent a request of diplomatic recognition to several Latin American states, including Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela.[4] None of the states answered the request. In May 2015, the confederation of Novorossiya was dissolved.[citation needed]

The territory controlled by the two republics is internationally recognized as parts of Ukraine by 192 of 193 member states of the United Nations, Russia being the lone exception. The Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics have only received international recognition from each other, from Russia, and from South Ossetia (which itself is only recognized by 5 of the 193 UN member states).

On 15 February 2022, the Russian State Duma voted to ask President Vladimir Putin to recognize the self-declared Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics in Ukraine as independent nations. The bill was proposed by the Communist Party.[5][6][7][8]

On 21 February 2022, the State Duma of Russia passed a bill to officially recognize the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic and Luhansk People's Republic in Eastern Ukraine as independent states. The bill was approved by President Vladimir Putin.[9] On the same day, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed decrees recognizing the Donetsk People's Republic and Luhansk People's Republic, and also signed agreements on friendship, cooperation, and assistance with the republics.[10]

Positions taken by states

States formally recognizing the Donetsk PR and the Luhansk PR as independent

UN member states

State Date of recognition Diplomatic relations established Notes
1  Russia 21 February 2022[11] 21 February 2022[11]
2  Syria 25 February 2022[2] 25 February 2022[2] Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad stated "Syria supports President Vladimir Putin's decision to recognise the republics of Luhansk and Donetsk" at an event in Moscow.[12] Syria's state news agency SANA later reported that Syria is "ready to build relations with republics of Luhansk and Donetsk".[13]

Other states

State Date of recognition Diplomatic relations established Notes
1  Donetsk People's Republic
 Luhansk People's Republic
11 May 2014 11 May 2014 Both Donetsk People's Republic and Luhansk People's Republic have simultaneously declared independence and were previously united under the Novorossiya confederation from 2014–15.
2  South Ossetia 18 June 2014 (LPR)[14]
27 June 2014 (DPR)[15]
28 January 2015 (LPR)[16]
12 May 2015 (DPR)[17]
On 27 June 2014, South Ossetia's Security Council decided to recognize the Donetsk People's Republic. South Ossetia's president told the media: "I believe the recognition of the Donetsk republic is the right step, South Ossetia's people support and hail the decision to recognize Donetsk and Luhansk."[15]
3  Abkhazia 25 February 2022 On 22 February 2022, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs published a statement welcoming the recognition of independence of the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics by Russian President Vladimir Putin.[18]
On 25 February 2022 President Aslan Bzhania announced the recognition of the Donetsk People's Republic and Luhansk People's Republic.[19]

States or organizations supporting recognition of Donetsk PR and Luhansk PR independence

UN member states

State Notes
 Belarus Despite calls for recognition of the two republics, the Belarusian Foreign Ministry had rejected recognition but it has supported Russia's decision. The statement reads: "In such a situation, we respectfully and understand the decision of the Russian side to recognize the independence of the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics. The Republic of Belarus has always actively and consistently advocated a peaceful settlement of the conflict in south-eastern Ukraine. We still consider diplomatic methods to be a priority and are ready to contribute to this process in every possible way."[20]
 Central African Republic President Faustin-Archange Touadéra stated on RIA Novosti news “I believe that this decision will undoubtedly save lives and prevent a lot of violence. According to our analysis, this decision aims to save people’s lives. This decision is supported by many because it aims to avoid violence and the loss of human lives,”[21]
 Nicaragua President Daniel Ortega stated "I’m sure that if a referendum is held there, as was done in Crimea, people will vote for their regions to be included in Russia. This is a Russian population and it’s not subject to the dictates of NATO, the EU and the U.S."[22]
 Venezuela President Nicolás Maduro "reaffirmed all his support" for Russian President Putin "in defense of peace in Russia", stating "the territory of Lugansk and Donetsk assumed the functions of people's republics to defend themselves from a massacre that the fascist sectors that had seized power in Ukraine began to execute hunting men, hunting women, assaulting families, bombing, with heavy weapons and a conflict began".[23]

States with limited recognition

State Notes
 Artsakh Arayik Harutyunyan, President of the self-proclaimed Republic of Artsakh, issued a statement welcoming the decision to recognize the independence of the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics. He stated that "the right of nations to self-determination and building one’s own state is inalienable for every people and is a fundamental principle of the international law."[24]

Governing bodies with limited recognition

Governing body Notes
 Yemen (Supreme Political Council) Mohammed Ali al-Houthi, a member of the Supreme Political Council in Yemen, tweeted a statement supporting the recognition of Donetsk and Luhansk.[25][2]

States or organizations opposing recognition of Donetsk PR or Luhansk PR independence

UN member states

State Notes
 Albania The Albanian Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs Olta Xhaçka posted a statement on Twitter: "Albania condemns Russia's recognition of the independence of the regions of Donetsk & Luhansk. A clear violation of international law, of the Minsk agreement as well as a violation of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. Albania stands united with partners and allies in support of Ukraine".[26]
 Argentina The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship echoed UN's Gutérres call for respect of territorial sovereignty and called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Argentina also called to respect the charter of the United Nations and international law.[27]
 Australia The Australian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the Russian recognition of Donetsk and Luhansk as independent states, saying it "flagrantly undermines Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and has no validity under international law." The ministry also condemned President Putin's announcement that Russia "is deploying so-called “peacekeepers” to eastern Ukraine. As so stating "These personnel are not peacekeepers"."[28]
 Austria The Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg states that the recognition of the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk People‘s Republics by the Russian Federation represents “a grave violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine which we categorically condemn.”[29]
 Belgium The Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sophie Wilmès tweeted: "Belgium condemns the recognition of the separatist territories in #Ukraine. It is a violation of international law, the Minsk agreements and the territorial integrity of Ukraine. We will work closely with our EU and NATO partners for a strong and united reaction."[30]
 Bosnia and Herzegovina Bosniak member of the Presidency Šefik Džaferović condemned Russia’s moves to recognize the independence of Donetsk and Luhansk. “Bosnia and Herzegovina respects and supports the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine. I condemn the decision of the Russian Federation to recognize the two Ukrainian regions as states, which is a flagrant violation of international law,” Džaferović said. Serb member of the Presidency Milorad Dodik said it was his personal opinion. He said that the Republika Srpska entity will seek neutrality at the national level regarding the issue of Ukraine, Radio Free Europe reported.[31] The Presidency Chairman Željko Komšić strongly condemned “Russia’s attack on the territory of Ukraine”.[32]
 Bulgaria For years, relations between Bulgaria and Russia were moderate. However, on the day of Putin's announcement, Prime Minister Kiril Petkov condemned Putin's recognition of Donetsk and Luhansk as independent entities. He stated “We continue to maintain Ukraine's territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. International law must be respected. We, the European Union, will respond united in our defense." In that same statement, the Bulgarian Foreign Ministry released the statement that “the recognition of the Luhansk and Donetsk separatist republics is a gross violation of international law and undermines European security. Such an escalation requires a unified and decisive response.”[33]
 Canada Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau condemned Putin's actions calling it "blatant violation of Ukraine's sovereignty". Trudeau went on to suggest economic sanctions would be applied.[34][35]
 Costa Rica Costa Rican government stated that it supported UN Secretary General statement stating that the recognition of Donetsk People's Republic and the Luhansk People's Republic are violating Ukrainian territorial integrity. Costa Rica has also called for a de-escalation of the situation in Eastern Europe and the situation must be resolved by dialogue.[36]
 Croatia The Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković tweeted: "We condemn Russia's recognition of the self-proclaimed regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, which is a violation of international law and the territorial integrity of #Ukraine. Together with (European Union) partners, we express our solidarity with @ZelenskyyUa and (Ukraine) people."[37]
 Cyprus "In light of developments in Ukraine, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus reiterates its support to the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders."[38]
 Czech Republic Numerous Czech officials have denounced President Putin’s decision to recognize the independence of the breakaway Ukrainian republics of Donetsk and Luhansk as a “breach of the Minsk Agreements and international law”. The Czech Foreign Ministry said the step was a flagrant violation of the sovereignty and integrity of Ukraine. Prime Minister Petr Fiala stated that the Czech Republic stands firmly behind a free and independent Ukraine and knows from its own historic experience that such steps never lead to peace.[39]
 Denmark Prime Minister of Denmark Mette Frederiksen posted statement on Twitter: "Russia’s decision to recognize the so-called DNR and LNR regions of Ukraine as independent is a blatant violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and international law. Denmark condemns the decision, which will not go unanswered. We stand side by side with Ukraine"[40]
 Estonia "Foreign Minister Eva-Maria Liimets: our support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity is unwavering".[41]
 Finland The Office of the President of Finland Sauli Niinistö: "Finland condemns Russia’s unilateral acts that violate Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The recognition of the separatist regions in Eastern Ukraine is a serious breach of the Minsk agreements. Finland responds to Russia’s acts as part of the European Union."[42]
 France Hours after recognition, the French President Emmanuel Macron who proposed a summit between Biden and Putin in the light of the 2021–2022 Russo-Ukrainian crisis, condemned the recognition and demands sanctions.[43][44]
 Georgia President of Georgia Salome Zourabichvili posted statement on Twitter: "Georgia strongly condemns Russia’s « recognition » of Ukraines’s Donetsk and Lugansk regions, repeating the scenario that led to the occupation of 20% of our territory. Georgia stands by you Pdt Zelensky and in support of Ukraine‘s territorial integrity and peace."[45]
 Germany German Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned the recognition of the two regions, which it would be a "one-sided breach" of the Minsk agreement, which tamed the hostilities in the Donbas region.[46]
 Greece The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated: "Russia’s recognition of the illegal and unilateral declaration of "independence" of Ukraine’s separatist regions of Donetsk and Luhansk constitutes a blatant violation of fundamental principles of International Law, Ukraine's territorial integrity, and the Minsk agreements."[47]
 Guatemala The Government of Guatemala on Tuesday expressed its condemnation of the "unilateral recognition" by Russia "of the separatist republics" of Donetsk and Lugansk in Ukraine, announced last Monday by President Vladimir Putin.[48]
 Honduras Honduran foreign ministry has urged involved parties in the crisis to find the way out through dialogue. Honduran Foreign Ministry also underlines the importance of Ukraine in peaceful coexistence in Europe and call other powers not to intervene in Ukraine and defend international system based on international law which respect sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.[49]
 Hungary The Prime Minister of Hungary Viktor Orbán assured of Hungary’s continued support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He added that Hungary will support the European Union’s joint efforts to settle the conflict.[50]
 Iceland The Prime Minister of Iceland Katrín Jakobsdóttir stated on Twitter: "The escalation by Russia in Ukraine is devastating and I am concerned for innocent civilians in the region. This is an unacceptable violation of international law. Escalation and armed conflict is not the solution to current challenges. The door for diplomacy must remain open."[51]
 Indonesia Indonesian President Joko Widodo said that he agreed with the UN Secretary General and asked to cease tension in Ukraine as soon as possible, urge both sides to restraint and will never allow the war to happen. Foreign ministry spokesperson Teuku Faizasyah stated that Indonesia firmly follow the UN charter and international law about territorial integrity of a nation and condemn every move that clearly violates territorial integrity and sovereignty of a nation.[52][53]
 Ireland Irish Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney: "Ireland’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders and its right to choose its own foreign and security policy path is unwavering. The decision by the Russian Federation to proceed with the recognition of the non-government controlled areas of the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts of Ukraine as independent entities contravenes international law, is a blatant violation of Ukraine’s territorial integrity, and marks a clear and unilateral breach of the Minsk agreements. Ireland supports a clear and strong EU response, including additional sanctions measures."[54]
 Israel The Ministry of Foreign Affairs shares the concern of the international community regarding the steps taken in eastern Ukraine and the serious escalation in the situation. Israel hopes for a diplomatic solution which will lead to calm, and is willing to help if asked. Israel supports the territorial integrity and the sovereignty of Ukraine.[55]
 Italy Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation condemned the decision of the Russian authorities to recognize the so-called separatist republics of Lughansk and Donetsk as in violation to the Minsk agreement.[56]
 Japan Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida condemned Russian recognition of Donetsk and Luhansk independence calling it violation of Ukrainian sovereignty. Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi said Japan will work with international community, including G7 to impose tough measure against Russia.[57]
 Kenya Kenyan UN representative Martin Kimani stated that Kenya and many African nations had been “birthed” with the end of colonialism and had not been able to set their own borders in a statement condemning Russia's recognition. But instead of pursuing states based on “ethnic, racial or religious homogeneity”, which carried the risk of decades of “bloody wars”, the countries “agreed that we would settle for the borders we inherited. Rather than form nations that looked ever backwards into history with a dangerous nostalgia, we chose to look forward to a greatness none of our many nations and peoples had ever known,” he said.[58][59]
 Kazakhstan Pending a meeting of the Kazakh security council, the foreign affairs minister stated, "I must assure you: there is no question of Kazakhstan's recognition of the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics. We proceed from the foundations of international law and the basic principles of the UN Charter."[60][61]
 Latvia The Government of Latvia has condemned the recognition in the following statement: "While utterly condemning Russia’s actions, Latvia urges the international community to take the strongest possible measures to stop Russia’s aggression and offer assistance to Ukraine. [..] We, the President, the Speaker of the Saeima, the Prime Minister, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Latvia, on behalf of the people of Latvia, stand in solidarity with the Ukrainian people and offer our unwavering support for Ukraine’s freedom, sovereignty and territorial integrity".[62]
 Liechtenstein The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated on Twitter: "Liechtenstein is deeply concerned about the recognition of certain parts of the Ukrainian regions Luhansk and Donezk by the Government of Russia, in flagrant violation of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, the Minsk agreements endorsed by the United Nations Security Council, as well as the Charter of the United Nations and the rules governing the conduct of international relations. Liechtenstein expresses its solidarity with the people and Government of Ukraine and calls for a peaceful settlement of all issues through diplomatic means and in accordance with international law."[63]
 Lithuania The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania strongly condemns Russia’s decision to recognize two areas in Ukraine’s Luhansk and Donetsk regions, which are held by Russian-backed separatists, as independent. "This decision constitutes a gross violation of the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and international law, the Helsinki Final Act, and the Charter of Paris".[64]
 Luxembourg The Prime Minister of Luxembourg Xavier Bettel has posted a statement on Twitter: "I condemn the recent violation of the Minsk agreements by Russia. We will work closely with our EU partners for a united response."[65]
 Malta The Republic of Malta condemns the decision of the Russian Federation to formally recognise the independence of the non-government controlled areas of Donetsk and Luhansk. This decision is a violation of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, is inconsistent with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, and in breach of the Minsk agreements and undermines the possibility of a diplomatic solution.[66]
 Mexico Permanent Mission of Mexico to the United Nations reiterates its respect for the territorial integrity of Ukraine and the search for a solution through diplomatic channels.[67]
 Moldova President of Moldova Maia Sandu posted statement on Twitter: "We strongly condemn recognition by (Russia) of the separatist areas of Donetsk & Luhansk oblasts of (Ukraine). This is clearly against intl law. (Moldova) remains firmly committed to supporting the sovereignty & territorial integrity of (Ukraine) within its internationally recognized borders."[68]
 Montenegro The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Montenegro posted a statement on Twitter: "Russia's decision to recognize self-proclaimed "People's Republics" of Donetsk & Luhansk is a violation of Ukraine's sovereignty & territorial integrity, #Minsk agreements & the international law. #Montenegro stands united with the (European Union) and its #NATO allies in support of #Ukraine"[69]
 Netherlands The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands Wopke Hoekstra has stated on Twitter: "The recognition of the separatist territories in #Ukraine is a blatant violation of international law, the territorial integrity of Ukraine, and Minsk agreements. The Netherlands strongly condemns this act and will respond firmly in close coordination with our EU & NATO partners."[70]
 New Zealand The Minister of Foreign Affairs Nanaia Mahuta stated on Twitter: "Aotearoa New Zealand strongly supports Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Russia’s actions today violate international law and cut across diplomatic efforts to find a peaceful resolution"[71]
 North Macedonia The Foreign Affairs Minister of The Republic of North Macedonia Bujar Osmani has stated on Twitter: "We strongly condemn the recognition by (Russia) of the (Ukraine) areas #Donetsk & #Lugansk as independent. Such acts represent a severe violation of international law. (North Macedonia) reiterates its unequivocal support for sovereignty & territorial integrity of #Ukraine @DmytroKuleba"[72]
 Norway The Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt has stated that "Norway condemn the Russian declaration of recognizing the self-proclaimed people's republics in Donetsk and Luhansk as independent states", saying that the decision is "another violation of Ukrainian sovereignty". She further stated that "Norway supports Ukraine's independence and territorial integrity in accordance with internationally recognized borders".[73]
 Peru Peru today expressed its deep concern over the evolution of events inside the Donetsk and Lugansk regions, as well as on the eastern border of Ukraine and Russia, and called for a peaceful and sustainable solution through diplomatic channels. The Permanent Representative of Peru to the UN, Ambassador Manuel Rodriguez Cuadros added that the recognition of the independence of the separatist territories and the deployment of military forces in these territories are incompatible with the principles of the UN Charter and constitute a violation of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine.[74]
 Poland The Polish Foreign Ministry firmly condemns the Russian declaration of two self-proclaimed republics situated on the territory of Ukraine – the so-called “Donetsk People’s Republic” and “Luhansk People’s Republic” and stated Russia has violated the Minsk Agreement. Polish government expressed its solidarity with Ukraine and urge Russia to cease its illegal actions that breached international laws.[75]
 Portugal The Prime Minister of Portugal António Costa posted a statement on Twitter: "Russian recognition of the two breakaway Ukraine regions clearly violates the Minsk accords and jeopardizes Ukraine's territorial integrity. We strongly condemn this action and express our full solidarity with Ukraine."[76]
 Romania President of Romania Klaus Iohannis, Prime Minister of Romania Nicolae Ciucă and other relevant Romanian political figures such as Ludovic Orban and Kelemen Hunor condemned Russia's decision to recognize the two separatist republics of Donetsk and Luhansk. Furthermore, Iohannis described the event as a serious violation of international law.[77]
 Singapore The MFA Spokesperson said: “Singapore is gravely concerned at the escalation of tensions at the Ukraine-Russia border and the Russian decision to recognise two breakaway Ukrainian regions. The sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine must be respected. All parties concerned should continue to pursue dialogue, including diplomatic means, towards a peaceful settlement of the dispute, in accordance with international law, and avoid action that will further raise tensions in the region.”[78]
 Slovenia The Slovenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated: "Slovenia strongly condemns the decision by President Putin to recognise Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts of Ukraine as independent entities. These hostile measures are a flagrant violation of international law and obligations contained in the Minsk agreements, and will not remain without consequences".[79]
 Slovakia The Slovak Foreign Ministry firmly does not recognize the self-proclaimed independence of the separatist entities. Slovak principled foreign policy position supports the political sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine and universal validity and respect for the principles of international law.[80]
 South Korea The South Korean President Moon Jae-in has urged Russia to respect Ukrainian sovereignty territorial integrity, pledged to work with international community for de-escalation of the situation in the region. Moon also instructed officials to prepare thoroughly to protect South Korean nationals in Ukraine.[81]
 Spain The Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation José Manuel Albares posted a statement on Twitter: "The Russian recognition of the separatist territories in eastern Ukraine is a flagrant violation of Ukraine‘s territorial integrity, the Minsk agreements and international legality. We will respond in close coordination with our partners and allies."[82]
 Sweden The Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde posted a statement on Twitter: "Strongly condemn Russia’s recognition of the non-government controlled areas of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts of Ukraine as independent entities. A blatant violation of international law and of the Minsk agreements."[83]
  Switzerland The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs tweeted: "Russia's recognition of certain areas of the Ukrainian Luhantsk and Donetsk regions as independent states is a flagrant violation of international law, the territorial integrity and sovereignity of Ukraine and the Minsk agreements. Switzerland calls on Russia to uphold its international obligations and to reserve its action."[84]
 Turkey Turkish Foreign Ministry has called Russian recognition of Donetsk and Luhansk are unacceptable and stated it as clear violation of not only the Minsk Agreement but also Ukrainian political unity. Turkey stated it will work with Ukraine preserving its political unity and territorial integrity.[85]
 Ukraine Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemns the Russian Federation’s decision to recognise the “independence” of the quasi-entities it had created in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, the so-called “Luhansk People’s Republic” and “Donetsk People’s Republic”.[86]
 United Kingdom British Foreign Minister Liz Truss condemned Russian move shortly after the declaration of recognition of Donetsk and Luhansk and has urged Russia to end its pattern of destabilising behaviour against Ukraine. Truss also stated that the British government will announce a new sanctions against Russia shortly for its destabilizing activities in the region. Prime Minister Boris Johnson called Putin's move as "ill omen" and "flagrant breach of sovereignty", Johnson later called the COBR meeting to discuss the situation in Ukraine[87][88][89]
 United States On the same day of Putin's announcement, the President of the United States Joe Biden has signed Executive Order 13660, imposing sanctions that target two Russia-backed breakaway republics in eastern Ukraine in a swift response. The order, from a statement by White House secretary Jen Psaki, bars "new investment, trade and financing by U.S. persons to, from, or in" the so-called Donetsk People's Republic and Luhansk People's Republic, located in Ukraine's eastern Donbass region, and provides authority to impose sanctions on "any person determined to operate in those areas of Ukraine".[90]
 Uruguay Uruguayan Foreign Ministry is following with great concern the increase in tensions on the border between Ukraine and Russia, which have escalated rapidly after the recognition of two separatist regions in Ukraine by Russia and the displacement of military troops, in violation of the principles of the Charter of the United Nations.[91]

States with limited recognition

State Notes
 Republic of China (Taiwan) ROC Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed "deep regret and condemnation" towards Russia after it ordered troops into two separatist pro-Moscow regions in eastern Ukraine. The ROC's presidential and Executive Yuan spokeswoman Kolas Yotaka said it was "encouraging" that UN ambassadors were rejecting Russia's claims to Ukraine territory, saying she looked forward to the day "the world will equally reject" the PRC's claims over Taiwan.[92]
 Kosovo Kosovo Foreign Affairs Ministry expressed solidarity with Ukraine against Russian aggression stating Putin has waged war against democracy. Kosovo also urged the free world to respond to Putin and his proxies with resolve.[93]

International or regional organizations

Organization Notes
 European Union The European Union's top officials condemned the recognition of Luhansk and Donetsk by Russia, calling it a "blatant violation of international law." In a joint statement, European Council President Charles Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen condemned “in the strongest possible terms the decision by the Russian President to proceed with the recognition of the non-government controlled areas of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts of Ukraine as independent entities.” The next day, the EU sanctioned 351 members of the State Duma for supporting the independence of the two regions.[94][95]
 NATO NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg condemned Russia’s decision to extend recognition to the self-proclaimed republics of Donetsk and Luhansk, stating: "This further undermines Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, erodes efforts towards a resolution of the conflict, and violates the Minsk agreements, to which Russia is a party." The alliance supported the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognised borders, with its allies urging Russia to "choose the path of diplomacy, and to immediately reverse its massive military build-up in and around Ukraine, and withdraw its forces from Ukraine in accordance with its international obligations and commitments."[96]
 UN UN Secretary General António Guterres condemned Russia's decision to recognize the "independence" of two Ukraine's breakaway region, calling it the violation of territorial and sovereign integrity of Ukraine and a "death blow" to the Minsk agreements. Guterres also slammed Russia's decision to send "peacekeeping forces" to the region saying: "When troops of one country enter the territory of another country without its consent, they are not impartial peacekeepers. They are not peacekeepers at all,".[97]

See also

References

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