“We are extremely concerned about the possible implications of recent developments for the existing negotiating framework,” DiCarlo said.
According to her, "under the current risks and uncertainty, it is even more important to have a dialogue."
The UN Deputy Secretary General emphasized that negotiations are the only way to eliminate the existing differences between key players on regional security issues and the settlement of the conflict in eastern Ukraine.
On February 21, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed decrees on Russia's recognition of the independence of the LNR and the DNR.
During the address, the President stressed that the situation in Donbass has become critical against the backdrop of Kiev's actions.
In particular, the head of state noted that, according to the Russian side, what is happening now in the Donbass is genocide.
US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said that Russian leader Vladimir Putin, recognizing the independence of the LPR and DPR, “teared to shreds” the Minsk agreements.
Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky also stated in his video message that the recognition of the independence of the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics is a violation of Ukraine's sovereignty.