DISINFO: The "referenda" in eastern Ukraine done with the same legal norms as in France
SUMMARY
The ballots were organised within the framework of the right of people to self-determination in the Donbas republics. The same rules, as in France, are respected. There is no pressure, it is very calm here, people are not forced to vote. And people are enthusiastic. I even heard that some citizens have been waiting for this for years. They are very happy to be able to choose their future.
RESPONSE
Pro-Kremlin disinformation narrative on the invasion of Ukraine and sham referenda on occupied Ukrainian territories aiming at justifying the annexation of Ukrainian territories.
Russia has held illegal referendums on four occupied oblasts of Ukraine (Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson) on September 23-26. In each case, Russia does not fully control the territories where so-called referendums are taking place. As stated EU High Representative Josep Borrell:
“The European Union strongly condemns these planned illegal “referenda” which go against the legal and democratically elected Ukrainian authorities, are in violation of Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and in blatant breach of international law. The results of such actions will be null and void and would not be recognised by the EU and its Member States.
Since the start of the invasion Russia has intimidated, illegally detained, tortured and abducted Ukrainian citizens and a significant part of the original population in the invaded areas has been forced to flee. Legally elected local officials have, in some cases, been forcibly replaced. Access to the internet, free and independent media and freedom of expression have also been greatly restricted.
Therefore, these illegal “votes” cannot be considered under any circumstance as the free expression of the will of the people living in these regions under constant Russian military threat and intimidation".
These parodies of democracy were also condemned by NATO, G7, US, as well as Russia’ partners like Serbia and Kazakhstan (a member of CIS and CSTO), which also mentioned that they will not recognise their results.
See also a similar disinformation claims alleging that Kherson residents want to join Russia in a referendum.