Britain condemns Russian over decree for east Ukraine passports

Britain condemned a move by Russia to simplify the procedure for residents of separatist-controlled eastern Ukraine to obtain Russian passports. "This step is the latest in a pattern of Russian behaviour aimed at threatening Ukraine's security and sovereignty, and undermining its territorial integrity," the British foreign ministry said in a statement on Thursday.

"Russian officials have sought to justify this move by citing humanitarian concerns. Yet the communities they claim to support are suffering the consequences of a conflict started and fuelled by Russia and its proxies." Earlier on Thursday, Germany and France also condemned Russia's move.