Ashton: I call on Russia to withdraw its troops

The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton, issued a statement today expressing great concern about the situation in eastern Ukraine, where at least six people were killed today in an anti-terrorist operation in Sloviansk, launched by Ukraine, reports the Patria News Agency.

 - I am seriously concerned about the actions taken by armed individuals and separatist groups in various cities in eastern Ukraine, which have been under siege in the last 24 hours. The OSCE Special Monitoring Mission has and must continue to play a key role in actively observing and reporting on all developments, which can prevent further escalation of the conflict – said Ashton.

She further noted that the EU continues to give strong support to the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Ukraine.

- We also call on Russia to do so and to withdraw its military troops and to cease all further actions aimed at destabilizing Ukraine – Ashton added.

Also in her statement, it is stated that the EU commends the Ukrainian authorities for their efforts to resolve the situation, in order to establish state authority.

- I encourage the government in Kyiv to further contribute to reducing tensions and I call on Ukraine to ensure free and fair presidential elections on May 25, when citizens will express their will – Ashton added.