Russia in hot seat for its intervention in Ukraine
Amid Russia’s claims that it has no reason to de-stabilize Ukraine by its military movement in the European country, the United States of America today said Russia’s action in contrast has endangered the promise of Ukraine’s democratic transition.
In his testimony before the House Foreign Affairs Committee in
Washington DC, Eric Rubin said the United States fully and unambiguously condemns Russia’s military intervention in Ukrainian territory.
He highlighted that Russia’s actions in Crimea are in clear violation of Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity and a breach of international law.
Mr. Rubin noted that Russia’s intervention in Ukraine violates it obligations under the UN Charter, and of its 1997 Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation, and Partnership and of its military basing agreement with Ukraine in which it agreed to respect the sovereignty of Ukraine and not to interfere in Ukraine’s internal affairs.
In addition, Russia’s aggression is a blatant affront to the 1994 Budapest Memorandum and the Helsinki Final Act, he said.
Ukraine Chooses Its Own Destiny For A Free Country
Mr. Rubin reiterated tthat the democratic transition that occurred in Ukraine was an expression of will of the Ukrainian people.
“This is not about the United States. This is not about Russia.” – Mr. Rubin
He said the people of Ukraine have made a decision about their future and not the way other around. To support Ukraine’s aspirations, the United Stated welcomed the formation of the new government and is working with its leadership as it ensures the protection of the rights of all Ukrainians including all minorities.
The US government is willing to help Ukraine. The US will focus on the government’s efforts to build the strong, sovereign and democratic country the people of Ukraine desire and so richly deserve.
“The decision of the Ukrainian people regarding their government needs to be respected.” – Mr. Rubin
Russia under fire
Expressing its condemnation of Russia’s intervention in Ukraine, the US has taken actions consistent with the unacceptability of Russia’s military intervention.
According to Mr. Rubin, together with its G7 counterparts, the US has suspended participation in the G8 Sochi preparations.
In addition, US has suspended all talks with Russia on any future trade or investment agreements.
“We have suspended military to military contacts.” – Mr. Rubin
The US also issued a statement with the unanimous approval of the members of the North Atlantic Council strongly condemning the Russian military escalation in Crimea. And, the NATO is stepping up efforts to increase the Baltic air policing mission.
Visa Restrictions For Russian Officials
According to Mr. Rubin, the State Department is putting in place visa restrictions on a number of officials and individuals especially those responsible for or complicit in threatening the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.
In addition, the President has signed an Executive Order that authorizes sanctions on individuals and entities responsible for activities undermining democratic processes or institutions in Ukraine.
6,000 Russian Troops On The Ground In Crimea
Reports made headlines that Russia is giving Ukraine’s army and navy in Crimea an ultimatum, whether to pledge allegiance to the Ukraine’s new pro-Russia leadership or be forced by Russia to submit.
Ukrainian forces believed they faced a threat even though no shot had been fired when 6,000 Russian troops are on the ground Crimea.
Many are afraid that there might be a possibility day of a wider invasion by Russia which in turn aroused international attention these days.
Ukrainian People On Protest!
In December 2012, Kiev was engulfed by unrest when a massive demonstration by pro-EU protesters stood their ground after an overnight sweep by riot police.
The authorities sent in battalions of riot police with bulldozers to reclaim Independence Square. There were records of scuffles and arrests. However, the riot police avoided entering the nearby City Hall and by morning they withdrew from the streets.
In a press statement in Washington DC, US Secretary of State John Kerry condemned the destruction of a protest camp in central Kiev.
