On Monday, February 21, Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized the L/DPR. World leaders are reacting to the incident.
UK
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the recognition of the "L/DNR" violates international law.
British Foreign Secretary Truss stated that Russia's recognition of Donetsk and Luhansk demonstrates a blatant disregard for Russia's commitments under the Minsk agreements.
Lithuania and Latvia
Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landbergis said that Russia's decision to recognize the "LPR" and "DPR" should be met with sanctions. Latvia demands the same.
Official recognition of Donetsk & Luhansk ‘republics’ proves a total contempt for international law & UN charters. RU must be recognised for what it is: a state outside international rules & civilised norms. I stay convinced such course of escalation should be met with sanctions
— Gabrielius Landsbergis (@GLandsbergis) February 21, 2022
Estonia
The Estonian Foreign Ministry called for sanctions against Russia for its recognition of the "L/DPR".
If the decision will be made by Russia to recognise so called „Donetsk & Luhansk People’s Republics”, it would constitute a grave violation of int´l law & of `s sovereignty & territorial integrity. must impose strict sanctions immediately. Call on Russia to de-escalate!
— Estonian MFA (@MFAestonia) February 21, 2022
Moldova
Moldovan President Maia Sandu strongly condemned Russia's recognition of the separatist regions of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine. "This is clearly contrary to international law. Moldova remains firmly committed to supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders," Maia Sandu wrote on Twitter.
We strongly condemn recognition by of the separatist areas of Donetsk & Luhansk oblasts of . This is clearly against intl law. remains firmly committed to supporting the sovereignty & territorial integrity of within its internationally recognized borders.
— Maia Sandu (@sandumaiamd) February 21, 2022
