Council of Europe condemns Russian aggression against Ukraine

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe approved a resolution on April 9 condemning the Russian Federation’s military aggression and annexation of Crimea, “which is a clear violation of the norms of international law.” Not one of the arguments offered by the Russian government to justify its actions confirms with reality, said the resolution, which also criticized Russian proposals for the federalization of Ukraine since it would “lead to a significant weakening of the unity and stability of the country.” The resolution gained 140 votes in favor, 32 against and 9 abstentions. The Russian delegation was denied the ability to add its own proposals to the resolution.

Zenon Zawada: It’s a relief that the global community has rallied around Ukraine, despite being overwhelmed in the mass media sphere. Perhaps the most effective Ukrainian organ is the Foreign Ministry, which communicated to the international community the Russian government’s direct role in supporting armed conflict, sabotage and takeovers of state buildings in southeastern Ukraine. The U.S. government has also played a critical role in forming global opinion on Ukraine, relaying accurate information that the Russian government is playing the role of the provocateur, rather than the protector of Russian speakers.