Lithuanian Parliament Refuses to Recognize Russia’s Seizure of Ukrainian Territories
Lithuania’s parliament has unanimously adopted a resolution rejecting any recognition of Ukrainian territories seized by Russia, The Gaze reports, citing LRT.
On Thursday, 118 members of the Seimas voted in favor of the declaration, with no opposition or abstentions.
“No seizure of Ukrainian territory by the Russian Federation, whether completed or ongoing, will be recognized by the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania either de jure or de facto,” the resolution states.
The document reaffirms that Ukraine is a sovereign and independent European state with the right to defend itself and determine its internal and foreign policy, including security decisions.
It emphasizes that Ukraine’s borders must be recognized as they were in 1991 — in accordance with international law.
Presenting the resolution, Seimas Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Remigijus Motuzas said:
“It is important not only to stop this unjustifiable war and ensure lasting peace, but also to restore Ukraine’s territorial integrity.”
He also warned against Russia’s historical revisionism ahead of Victory Day commemorations:
“Moscow, in preparing for the anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany, has increased its pressure on Ukraine, intensifying attacks on civilians and infrastructure.”
Russia occupied Crimea in 2014 and launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Recent reports suggest that U.S. officials have floated a potential cease-fire proposal that would freeze the conflict along current front lines and allow Russia to retain Crimea — a suggestion widely criticized by Ukraine and its allies.
Read more on The Gaze: Why Ukraine cannot give up the territories occupied by Russia