The Verkhovna Rada of Crimea being totally controlled by servicemen of the Russian Armed Forces has made an illegal decision to hold a referendum. The referendum in Crimea on the question: "Do you support the idea of Crimea becoming part of Russian Federation?".

This decision is illegitimate and void.

It contradicts the will of the Ukrainian people and the interests of Crimean citizens. Ukraine's territory within the boundaries recognized by the whole world is inviolable and sovereign.

Under Article 73 of the Constitution of Ukraine, issues relating to borders and territories should be discussed only at a nationwide referendum.

By the way, it's impossible to hold even a local, Crimean referendum in ten days. So this is not a referendum. This will be a farce, this will be falsity and this will be a crime against the state organized by servicemen of the Russian Federation.

In accordance with the powers conferred on me, I have suspended the decision of the Crimean Parliament.

The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine will initiate the dissolution of the Parliament of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea. We will protect the inviolability of our territory. We will protect the sovereignty of our country.

I am confident that Ukrainian citizens who live in Crimea will contribute to this in every way possible.