Hon Murray McCully
Minister of Foreign Affairs
3 March 2014 Media Statement
Russian Ambassador called in over Ukraine
Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully says the Russian Ambassador was called in to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and
Trade this afternoon over the escalation of tensions in Ukraine.
“On my instructions the Russian Ambassador has been called in to the Ministry to hear directly New Zealand’s views on
the situation in the Ukraine,” Mr McCully says.
“New Zealand is deeply alarmed at the escalation of tensions in Ukraine over recent days and we condemn the breach of
Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“We understand Russia has significant interests especially in the Crimean Peninsula, however they need to pursue these
interests in a manner that is consistent with Russia’s treaty obligations, international law and accepted international
norms.
“New Zealand calls on the Russian Government to take steps to reduce tensions and to engage in consultations with other
affected parties to achieve this objective."
ENDS