‘Deeply Disappointed’, Secretary-General Expresses Concern that Crimea

Referendum Could Exacerbate Situation in Ukraine

 

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General continues to closely follow the situation in Ukraine.  Since the beginning of this crisis, the Secretary-General has urged all parties to avoid hasty steps in this already complex and tense situation.

The Secretary-General is deeply disappointed and concerned that the Crimea referendum will only exacerbate this situation.  He encourages all parties to work for a solution that is guided by the principles of the United Nations Charter, including respecting Ukraine’s unity and sovereignty.

He condemns the violence which occurred over the weekend in eastern Ukraine and which resulted in injuries and loss of life on all sides.  The Secretary-General once again urges all parties to refrain from violence and to commit themselves to de-escalation and inclusive national dialogue in the pursuit of a political and diplomatic solution.  A deterioration of the situation will have serious repercussions for the people of Ukraine, the region and beyond.

He urges all parties in Ukraine and those with influence to avoid any steps that could further increase tensions.

Above all, the Secretary-General urges all concerned to intensify their efforts and engage constructively toward a peaceful solution to this crisis, with the aspirations of all the people of Ukraine foremost in mind.  The Secretary-General remains ready to work with all parties to resolve this situation.

* *** *

For information media • not an official record