Referendums that back Russian rule in Ukraine a sham — Coveney

'We will not recognise the results of referendums that we don’t believe truly reflect what people in those parts of Ukraine actually want'

Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney said referendums that reportedly endorse Russian rule in parts of Ukraine are a sham. Picture: Niall Carson/PA

Referendums that reportedly endorse Russian rule in parts of Ukraine are a “sham”, Foreign Affairs minister Simon Coveney has said.

Mr Coveney said Ireland would not recognise the results of the votes which he described as an attempt by Russia to gain control of parts of Ukraine’s sovereign territory.