Italy condemns Russian recognition of Donbass

(ANSA) - ROME, FEB 22 - Italy's has condemned Russia's decision to recognise the independence of two breakaway 'republics' in the Donbass region of eastern Ukraine.
    "The decision of the Russian authorities to recognize the so-called separatist republics of Lughansk and Donetsk is to be condemned as in violation to the Minsk agreements," Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio said in a statement. .
    "The decision represents a serious obstacle in the path towards a diplomatic solution of the Ukrainian crisis.
    "Italy continues to uphold the integrity and full sovereignty of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.
    "Italy appeals to all parties to return to the negotiating table in the appropriate formats, in the belief that unilateral initiatives are preventing the achievement of stability and security in the region.
    "Italy is in constant contact with European and Atlantic partners to coordinate the response to the announcement by the President of the Russian Federation". (ANSA).