**EU Condemns Russia’s Sham Referendums, US Talks Spark Controversy**
The European Union has reaffirmed its support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and denounced Russia’s “completely fraudulent” referendums in illegally occupied regions. The comments were made by EU spokesperson Anita Hipper on March 24.
Hipper condemned the sham referendums held at gunpoint in Ukrainian territories, which Russia claims to be legitimate. She also called for Russia to demonstrate its willingness to end the war with Ukraine. This comes amid controversy over US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff’s comments suggesting that Ukrainians living in occupied territories may want to live under Russia.
**US and Russian Delegations Meet**
Witkoff’s remarks, made on March 21, sparked outrage and fears that the US might lend legitimacy to Russia’s ongoing occupation of Ukrainian territory. Russia has partially occupied four Ukrainian regions: Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson oblasts.
US and Russian delegations held talks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, without Ukrainian or European participation. A separate meeting between a Ukrainian delegation and a US team was also held on March 23.
**Russia’s Goal**
A Kremlin official reportedly told the Moscow Times that Russia aims to cement its control over the four occupied Ukrainian oblasts during peace negotiations with the US. This comes after Russia annexed Crimea in 2014 and has been seeking full control of the region ever since.
**US Response**
When asked if Witkoff’s comments indicate that Washington believes Russia has a legitimate claim to Ukrainian territories, US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce gave an evasive answer. She stated that there are many diplomatic talks going on and refused to speculate further.
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