Declaration by the presidency on behalf of the European Union

on the situation in the Dagestan Republic of Russia

The European Union expresses its concern at the eruption of violence in the Dagestani district of Botlikhsky. The EU is worried about the threat of a further escalation of the conflict.

The EU condems the seizure of several villages by armed groups and the declaration of the so called independent Islamic State of Dagestan.

The EU is particularly worried about the fate of the civilian population and the considerable number of refugees fleeing the conflict zone.

The EU urges the parties to abide by the principles of international law including respect for universal human rights and humanitarian law.

The EU recognises the territorial integrity of the Russian Federation.

The EU calls upon the federal Russian authorities as well as the local authorities to use proportionate force whilst restoring order in the Dagestan Republic of Russia, already deeply affected by a poor socioeconomic situation.

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