Crimea referendum illegal and illegitimate

“The use of force, threats of the use of force and intervention in the internal affairs of another country violate the fundamental principles of international law,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Børge Brende.

“It is Norway’s view that the referendum in Crimea, if it is held on Sunday as planned, is in violation of international law and lacks legitimacy,” said Foreign Minister Brende.

“We cannot recognise the result of a referendum in the current circumstances, which involve a Russian military presence that is contrary to international law,” said Mr Brende.  

“Norway, together with other countries, calls on Russia to refrain from any action to change the status of Crimea in violation of international law. A referendum will clearly make it more difficult to find a political solution,” said Foreign Minister Brende.