Macedonian officials and opposition representatives expressed their support for the territorial integrity of Ukraine, following Russia’s decision to recognize the two break-away regions of Donetsk and Lugansk.

Prime Minister Dimitar Kovacevski said that he “condemns Russia’s decision for recognition of Donetsk and Lugansk as self-proclaimed ‘People’s Republics’. This act is a direct attack on Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty and integrity, as well as a violation of Minsk agreements and UN Council decisions from 2015. Along with NATO Allies, we call on resolving conflicts through a diplomatic path”.

President Pendarovski called the move a violation of international law and the rules based international order, as well as a threat for civilization. “I express my full support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine”.

VMRO-DPMNE official Antonio Milososki also expressed support for Ukraine. “Instead of escalation of the conflict, what is needed are diplomatic steps toward negotiations based on the obligations from the Minsk agreement”.

Foreign Minister Bujar Osmani was first to strongly condemn Russia’s move.