As reported by Censor.NET citing Krym.Realii, the diplomat expressed confidence that the EU was not proactive and was "capable to do more with regard of the pressure against the country which is conducting aggression."

The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine officially declared Feb. 20, 2014 the beginning of the temporary occupation of Crimea and Sevastopol by the Russian Federation. President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko signed the relevant law Oct. 7, 2015. International organizations recognized illegal the occupation and annexation of Crimea and condemned Russia's actions. Western countries have imposed economic sanctions against the aggressor state.