Russia is officially expelled from the Danube Commission

On March 1, Russia was officially expelled from one of the oldest international organizations, the Danube Commission, which regulates navigation on the Danube.

This was announced on Twitter (X) by Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba.

Kuleba recalled that the Danube Commission decided at its 100th-anniversary session in December 2023 - during Ukraine's first presidency - that Russia's actions were incompatible with the Belgrade Convention, on the basis of which it operates.

"Russia had until February 29 to withdraw from the organization on its own. However, the aggressor did not have the courage to do so. As a result, starting today, the Commission member states will no longer officially recognize their obligations to Russia under the fundamental Belgrade Convention," the minister explained.

In addition, Kuleba added, for the first time in its history, the Danube Commission imposed a fine on Russia for non-payment of contributions after it was deprived of its powers in the organization in March 2022.

"I call on all international organizations to follow this example, isolate Russian diplomats and expel Russia. Aggressors and terrorists have no place in any reputable international forums," the Foreign Minister urged.

Author - Olena Madiak, 01/03/2024