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PM Støre: It is very disturbing that Russia is sending soldiers into eastern Ukraine

Photo: Ole Berg-Rusten / NTB

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre (AP) fears military confrontations will take place. He says it is very disturbing that Russian soldiers are deployed in Luhansk and Donetsk.

“It is very serious that Russia now recognizes parts of Ukraine as independent republics. It is a serious violation of international law and an unacceptable attack on Ukraine’s territorial unity and integrity,” Støre told NTB.

“It is also serious that the recent attempts to find political solutions have suffered setbacks due to this, and the tone of President Putin’s speech combined with the strong military escalation around Ukraine gives reason to fear military confrontations from the Russian side,” he added.

“Disturbing”

Putin also ordered the deployment of “peacekeeping forces” in eastern Ukraine.

“It is very disturbing; we have to wait until it gets confirmed,” Støre told Norwegian Broadcasting (NRK) late Monday night.

“In reality, this would send Russian forces into what the international community sees as Ukraine’s territory.”

Norway joins European reaction

Both the US and the EU have extensive sanctions ready against Russia. The plans were discussed at a meeting of EU foreign ministers on Monday.

When the news of the Russian recognition came, the EU announced sanctions against “those involved in this illegal act.”

“Norway will have close contact with our partners and join a common European reaction to what has happened tonight,” Støre said on Monday.

“Violatin of Ukraine’s sovereignty”

Earlier Monday night, Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt (AP) said that Norway condemned the Russian decision to recognize the self-proclaimed “people’s republics.”

“The decision is another violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty,” she noted in a written statement sent to NTB.

Huitfeldt further said that Norway consistently supports Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity within internationally recognized borders.

Source : © NTB Scanpix / #Norway Today / #NorwayTodayNews

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