Russia conducted partial regional and local elections, including in the illegally annexed Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol from 6-8 September. The European Union strongly condemns the holding of these so-called "elections" by Russia on Ukrainian territory. They constitute another act of violation of international law, the UN Charter and Ukraine's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity.

The EU does not recognise these so-called "elections" or their results in Crimea. They are null and void, and cannot produce any legal effects whatsoever. Russia’s leadership and those responsible for organising these illegal actions will be held accountable and face consequences.

More than a decade after Russia’s invasion and attempted illegal annexation of Crimea, the EU reiterates its position: Crimea is Ukraine. Referring to the UN General Assembly Resolution of 27 March 2014, we call on Russia to cease its efforts to undermine Ukraine’s national unity and territorial integrity. 

There is one clear way out of this war: that Russia immediately ends its illegal, unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine, and withdraws all forces and military equipment from Ukraine’s territory within its internationally recognised borders.