EU: Russia to Investigate Referendum Irregularities

European Union foreign chief Josep Borrell called on Thursday to investigate irregularities in the referendum on constitutional changes.

 

More than three-quarters of the Russians voted in favour of the changes, allowing president Vladimir Putin to remain in power until 2036.

“We are aware of reports and allegations of irregularities including pressurizing voters, double voting, breach of secrecy and police brutality against an observing journalist,” said Borrell’s spokesperson.

“We expect these reports to be appropriately investigated, as they are serious allegations.”

The EU is also critical of a constitutional amendment that will make Russian law take precedence over international treaties signed by the country.

“We expect Russia to fulfil its international obligations, regardless of changes in the constitution,” said the spokesman for the EU foreign chief.

He also said that the EU does not recognize elections in the Crimean peninsula. Russia annexed Crimea in 2014 at the expense of Ukraine.

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