Sweden says it will not recognise Russian occupation of Ukrainian territories
Sweden's Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard has stated that her country has not recognised and will not recognise any Ukrainian territory occupied by Russia.
Source: Stenergard's statement on Monday 24 November, as reported by the Guardian and European Pravda
Details: Stenergard emphasised that Ukraine has repeatedly expressed its readiness to agree to a full and unconditional ceasefire and to engage in negotiations on a peaceful settlement, whereas Russia has not done so.
"Since Russia has not changed its position, neither has Sweden nor the EU. Our position remains that to achieve a just and lasting peace, borders cannot be changed by force," she stressed.
Stenergard underlined that all territories currently under temporary Russian occupation remain Ukrainian.
Quote: "Let me be clear, Sweden will not recognise Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea or any other part of Ukraine's territory. We will not reward aggression."
More details: She added that there can be no restrictions placed on Ukraine's Armed Forces.
Quote: "An agreement that includes those main elements that truly respects Ukraine's sovereignty and that has the support of its people … will also have our support. But as long as the Russian aggression continues, Sweden has a clear two point plan to strengthen Ukraine and weaken Russia. You can count on our support."
Background:
- Following the 23 November talks in Geneva, Ukraine and the United States prepared a revised and updated peace framework document expected to emphasise respect for Ukraine's sovereignty.
- The United Kingdom, Germany and France have also drafted counterproposals to the US 28-point "peace plan" aimed at making it more advantageous for Ukraine.
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