COPENHAGEN, 27 February 2014 – OSCE PA President Ranko Krivokapic today reaffirmed support for the territorial integrity of Ukraine and called on the country’s ethnic and linguistic groups to express themselves through peaceful means.

“Ukraine is currently at an historical crossroads. However, political changes and developments in the country should in no way be used to challenge its territorial integrity. I call upon all stakeholders to avoid making decisions that encourage further political divisions,” Krivokapic said.

“Instead, Ukraine’s ethnic and linguistic groups, in Crimea and elsewhere, must refrain from violence and work toward rebuilding their country. All in the international community should support that goal. At the same time, Ukraine’s leaders must steadfastly adhere to OSCE commitments regarding the protection of minority rights,” he added.

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly continues to closely monitor the situation.