The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton expressed concern over reported kidnappings, torture and killings in Eastern Ukraine and called for an end to violence as agreed at Geneva meeting.
“The latest news from Eastern Ukraine, and in particular the reported kidnappings, torture and killings, including the cases of Volodymyr Rybak and Pavel Kovelko, is a cause of grave concern. I extend my condolences to their relatives,” Ashton said in a statement.
The High Representative called for an independent and transparent investigation that would “shed full light on these deaths and bring the perpetrators to justice. All persons still illegally detained by armed groups in Eastern Ukraine must be immediately released, whether journalists, local leaders or ordinary citizens.”
“I call for an end to violence, intimidation and provocative actions and statements, as agreed in the Joint Geneva Statemen,” she said.
“All parties to the Joint Geneva Statement on Ukraine of 17 April must ensure that its terms are fully implemented, including by using their leverage on illegal armed groups to stop violence and provocation and to make them hand in their arms,” Ashton said.
