Italy does not recognize annexation of Crimea - foreign minister

The Italian government does not recognize Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea and adheres to the sanctions policy of the European Union, Italian Foreign Minister Enzo Moavero Milanesi has said.

"The government believes that the rules of international law must always be respected. Italy did not recognize the regional authorities appointed in March 2014, following the sanctions in accordance with the EU," the Yevropeiska Pravda ezine quoted the minister as saying at a parliament meeting, with reference to the Ansa agency.

Milanesi answered the questions of MP Laura Boldrini regarding a statement made by Italian Interior Minister Matteo Salvini who defended the legitimacy of Russia's holding a referendum in Crimea after annexation of the peninsula.

Salvini believes that Russia legally annexed the Ukrainian Crimea and called the Revolution of Dignity in Ukraine "fake," according to Yevropeiska Pravda. In fact, Crimea is under military occupation by Russia.

The Italian interior minister also confirmed his commitment to the cancellation of European sanctions against Russia.