Brussels, 22/08/2014 (Agence Europe) - On 22 August, the European Union “deplored Russia's decision to enter the humanitarian consignment into Ukrainian territory, without the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)'s escort or the consent of the Ukrainian authorities.”
“This is a clear violation of the Ukrainian border. This also goes counter to the previous arrangements reached between Ukraine, Russia and the ICRC,” explained Sebastien Brabant, spokesman for EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton. Brabant added: “We reiterate that Russia's humanitarian assistance should be channelled in full respect of the international humanitarian law and principles - through an international humanitarian organisation - and in agreement with the Ukrainian Government. (…) In order to ensure respect of international humanitarian law and principles the convoy, which needs to be strictly of a humanitarian nature, has to be escorted by the ICRC.”
Brabant went on: “We commend the Ukrainian authorities for their restraint as well as their readiness for further talks, in order to avoid a further escalation of the crisis. Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity, unity and independence must be respected.” Ukraine describes the entry of the Russian convoy as a direct invasion. Lithuania said at the United Nations Security Council that this was an aggressive act by Russia and a serious violation of international law. (CG)