European Union criticizes Russia’s action on Ukraine

November 25, 2013 in News by The Manimal

Source: Press TV

File photo of European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso (L) and European Council President Herman Van Rompuy
File photo of European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso (L) and European Council President Herman Van Rompuy

European Union officials have criticized Russia for applying external pressure on Ukraine to make Kiev snub an EU deal and develop closer ties with Moscow.

“The European Union will not force Ukraine, or any other partner, to choose between the European Union or any other regional entity,” European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso and European Council President Herman Van Rompuy said on Monday, adding that Russia had put unacceptable pressure on Kiev.

“We therefore strongly disapprove of the Russian position and actions in this respect,” the pair said in a joint statement issued days before Ukraine was due to sign the EU free trade and political association agreement at a summit in Vilnius set for November 28-29.

The statement added that the EU’s offer with Ukraine remains on the table.

“The EU stands ready to be more open and more supportive to those who are willing to engage in reforms and modernization,” the statement read.

EU officials highlighted Russia’s threats to cut off Ukraine’s gas supplies and impose trade restrictions as a means to pressure Kiev to withdraw from the EU deal.

Meanwhile, Russia accused the EU of applying undue pressure on Ukraine to sign the deal.

On November 21, Ukraine announced that it would suspend signing the trade agreement with the EU and revive talks on a deal with Russia.

According to a decree issued by the Ukrainian prime minister’s office, the decision was made to “ensure the national security of Ukraine” after considering effects of trade with Russia. It also spoke of the need to “restore lost trade volumes with the Russian Federation.”