COPENHAGEN, 10 May 2014 – OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President Ranko Krivokapic today called on separatists in the Donetsk and Luhansk Oblasts of eastern Ukraine to cancel planned referendums on self-rule scheduled for 11 May.

"The idea that free and fair voting could take place in these so-called referendums is absurd. Not only are these referendums completely illegitimate in the eyes of the international community, they would be taking place amid a climate of fear, violence and lawlessness that is sure to keep many away from polling places.

"I call on the de facto authorities in Donetsk and Luhansk to call off these mockeries of a vote. All in Ukraine should instead focus on making their voices heard on 25 May, when the country elects a new president," Krivokapic said.