The Ukrainian Embassy has reacted strongly to the latest media reports concerning what they state was an illegal visit made by the ensemble Symphonic Brass Wales to the Crimea.

As reported on 4BR, Symphonic Brass Wales visited Russia and Crimea, which was subjected to disputed annexation from Ukraine by forces of the Russian Federation in 2014, on a tour that lasted from 13th to 24th August.

Informed decision

It was confirmed by the ensemble that they had been formally contacted by both the Ukrainian Embassy and the UK Foreign Office before they flew out from the UK, but took what they told 4BR was an "informed decision".

The tour has since led to widespread media coverage both at home and abroad with both positive and negative comments made on social media and in the national press — including an article written in 'The Mail on Sunday' on the weekend.

4BR contacted both Symphonic Brass Wales and the Ukrainian Embassy in London for comment, with ensemble spokesperson Craig Roberts stating: "We appreciate the reservations of those who did not agree with us going, but we have also been heartened by those who have supported it."

Embassy statement

4BR has since been contacted by the Ukrainian Embassy which has issued the following official statement:

"The Embassy has informed relevant Ukrainian authorities, namely the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine and the Security Service of Ukraine, of the illegal visit of the Symphonic Brass Wales to Russia occupied Crimea.

The Security Service of Ukraine is the main body to take the final decision concerning the legal measures to be taken against the Symphonic Brass Wales and its musical director Craig Roberts.

We hope that the decision will be made soon.

In this regard we would like to inform you that Ukraine has already forbidden some UK nationals from entering the territory of Ukraine as a result of their illegal visits to the occupied Crimea without official consent of Ukraine.

Today Ukraine is at the forefront of the European security suffering from the Russian aggression. And all those who illegally visit Crimea have to realise that they are playing in hands of Russia and its hostile policy."