Skip to content

Council of Europe keeps Russia as member despite Crimea annexation

Europe's leading human rights organization approved by majority vote a joint declaration that tries to appease Russia.

Masked troops equipped with Russian weapons in Crimea.
Masked troops equipped with Russian weapons were often present during Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014. (AN/Sasha Maksymenko)

Council of Europe foreign ministers agreed to restore Russia's right to participate in its Parliamentary Assembly "on an equal basis" with other member nations, a move towards resolving the international organization's conflict over Moscow's annexation of Crimea five years ago.

Europe's leading human rights organization approved by majority vote a joint declaration on Friday that attempts to appease Russia. The decision came during a ministerial-level celebration of the council's 70-year history of dialogue and cooperation, and is a precursor to restoring Russia's vote in the council next month.

This article is for paying subscribers only

Join now

Already have an account? Log in

Latest