The Italian Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and Chair of the Council of Europe's Committee of Ministers, Luigi Di Maio, has made the following statement:
"As Chair of the Council of Europe's Committee of Ministers, I support the statement of the Secretary General of the Council of Europe. Italy strongly condemns the decision of the Russian authorities on the recognition of the so-called "people's republics" of Donetsk and Luhansk by the Russian Federation. Unilateral initiatives are not the answer to the crisis.
We should continue seeking a diplomatic solution for a peaceful settlement of this conflict.
We reiterate our unwavering support and commitment to Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders."
