Berlin, 23 September 2022 (dpa/MIA) - The leaders of the G7 countries condemned Russia's self-styled referendums that are being held in areas of Ukraine occupied by Moscow's forces. They also expressed in a statement their regret concerning the partial mobilization of reservists in Russia. The G7 said the referendums "have no legal effect or legitimacy, as demonstrated by Russia’s hasty methods of organization, which in no way respect democratic norms," and condemned the "blatant intimidation of local populations." They said the votes "in no way represent a legitimate expression of the will of the Ukrainian people, who have consistently resisted Russian efforts to change borders by force." The leaders said they would "never recognize a purported annexation if it occurs." The G7 powers called on all countries to "unequivocally reject" the votes as "Russia’s attempt to give false cover to its violations of international law." The G7 said the group was ready to impose further economic costs on Russia, and on individuals and entities – inside and outside of Russia – providing political or economic support for Russia’s illegal attempts to change the status of Ukrainian territory. "We are steadfast in our commitment to providing the support Ukraine needs to uphold its sovereignty and territorial integrity, to defend itself, and to choose its own future. We will continue to provide financial, humanitarian, military, diplomatic and legal support, and will move ahead on reconstruction efforts," the G7 said, referring to a conference on rebuilding Ukraine planned for October. "We will stand firmly with Ukraine for as long as it takes," the statement said.