Prime Minister Joseph Muscat has condemned developments in Crimea and reiterated Malta's call for full respect of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid any further provocative actions, and immediately diffuse the situation.

Addressing an extraordinary European Council meeting on the situation in Crimea, the Prime Minister said Russia should act within the parameters of the 1994 Budapest memorandum of Understanding and other international agreements, emphasising that the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine are inviolable under international law.

The Prime Minister added that the overriding priority at this juncture should be to get the Ukrainian and Russian sides talking as soon as possible. In this respect, he welcomed ongoing diplomatic talks currently taking place between Russia and various countries, noting that the only means to find a solution to the current impasse is through dialogue.

With regard to the prospective Ukrainian presidential elections in May, the Prime Minister stated that this exercise will be pivotal for the creation of a stable platform for the country's future which is inclusive of all elements of the population and their aspirations. In this respect, he stressed that a newly-elected unifying President would need to ensure the protection of minority rights and reach out to all regions in the country.

The heads of state and government attending the meeting unanimously voiced their support for Ukraine and welcomed a comprehensive financial assistance package presented by the European Commission, stating that restoring macroeconomic stability in the country was a priority.