EU comments on Witkoff's statements about Russian 'referendums'.

The European Commission unequivocally rejected the legitimacy of the 'referendums' organized by Russia in occupied Ukrainian territories, calling them 'complete fabrications'.

This reaction was triggered by the scandalous statements of the special envoy of the US President.

'These referendums were complete fabrications and were conducted under personal threats,' said European Commission spokesperson Anita Hipper during a briefing in Brussels on March 24, commenting on the recent interview of Stephen Witkoff with Tucker Carlson.

Hipper emphasized that the EU steadfastly supports Ukraine. 'I would like to remind you of the European Council's conclusion of March 21, where it reaffirmed its unwavering support for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Ukraine,' she stressed.

Regarding peace negotiations, the EU spokesperson expressed Brussels' clear position: 'Firstly, concerning peace, it should be decided by the Ukrainians themselves. Secondly... nothing about Ukraine without Ukrainians.'

The European side emphasized the ongoing Russian attacks as evidence of Moscow's unreliability in the negotiation process. 'Russia cannot be trusted, as evidenced by its continuous attacks. We saw these attacks last weekend, including a strike on Kyiv, where three people were killed, including a five-year-old child,' noted Hipper.

A representative of the European Commission confirmed strong support for Ukraine: 'We very strongly support Ukraine, as our actions have shown: military, financial, and humanitarian support, sanctions, 16 sanctions packages, with the 17th sanctions package being prepared, as well as a military aid plan. We must support Ukraine now more than ever, and this is our goal.'

It should be recalled that the special envoy of the US President, Steve Witkoff, in his interview with Tucker Carlson effectively confirmed the legitimacy of the 'referendums' held by Russia in occupied territories in 2022. Witkoff also stated that Ukraine's NATO membership is incompatible with a potential peace agreement with Russia and mentioned that he received a 'wonderful portrait of President Trump' from Putin during their meeting.