US protests Russia’s suspension of Tatar assembly

WASHINGTON

The U.S. has condemned Russia’s decision to suspend the Crimean Tatar assembly and label it an extremist organization.

“The Russian authorities have no basis or jurisdiction to assert Russian law over Tatar conduct in Ukraine,” State Department spokesman John Kirby said.

On Monday, the Russian Justice Ministry banned the autonomous Tatar Mejlis from using state-owned media, holding public gatherings, participating in elections and using bank accounts.

The ministry also designated it an “extremist organization”.

In a statement released late Thursday, Kirby added: “The Mejlis has long been a representative body for the traditionally under-represented and historically oppressed Crimean Tatar population.

“This action is the latest in a series of abuses perpetrated by de facto authorities against those in Crimea who oppose the occupation.”

He also called on Moscow to end its occupation of Crimea.