The Council of Europe Secretary General Marija Pejčinović Burić released a statement on the military attack by the Russian Federation on Ukraine.
“I strongly condemn the Russian military attack against Ukraine in flagrant violation of the Statute of Council of Europe and the European Convention on Human Rights. This is a dark hour for Europe and everything it stands for.
“I call upon the authorities of Russia to immediately and unconditionally cease hostilities and return to diplomacy to restore peace and avoid further devastating consequences for the entire continent. Protecting civilian lives must remain a matter of priority. All my thoughts are with Ukraine, its people and its authorities.
“Together with the Committee of Ministers and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, we will swiftly take necessary measures to respond to the current situation”.
