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European Parliament declares Russia a “state sponsor of terrorism”

European Parliament declares Russia a “state sponsor of terrorism”

In a symbolic act on Wednesday (23), European Parliament lawmakers recognized Russia “as a state sponsor of terrorism and as a state that uses means of terrorism”, calling on the European Union “to further isolate Russia internationally”. ”.

The EU Parliament took the decision in light of “deliberate attacks and atrocities committed by Russian forces and their proxies against civilians in Ukraine, the destruction of civilian infrastructure and other serious violations of international and humanitarian law”, which “add to acts of terror and constitute war crimes,” according to a press release.

“As the EU currently cannot officially designate states as sponsors of terrorism, Parliament urges the EU and its member states to establish the appropriate legal framework and consider adding Russia to that list,” the statement said.

The non-binding resolution was passed with 494 votes in favour, 58 against and 44 abstentions, added the press release.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the decision. “Russia must be isolated at all levels and held accountable for ending its long-standing policy of terrorism in Ukraine and around the world,” he tweeted.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Dmytro Kuleba, also thanked the European Parliament on Twitter for “the clear stance”.

THE CNN reached out to Russian officials for comment.

Source: CNN Brasil