The UDA statement, using its UFF cover name, threatening to end its ceasefire said it was in response to "a systematic or orchestrated campaign of intimidation from nationalists" of Protestants in north and west Belfast.
The UFF 2nd Battalion West Belfast Brigade said ethnic cleansing could not and would not be allowed to happen.
It said: "From 12 o'clock tonight 20th June 2000 the UFF reserves the right to shoot any person seen to be attacking Protestant homes.
"This will be in direct contradiction to our ceasefire, which we have steadfastly adhered to despite intense provocation, but enough is enough."
The statement continued: "We cannot stand idly by and watch while Protestants are intimidated out of their homes."
The organisation called on nationalists, Sinn Fein, the SDLP or community leaders to "put an end to this ethnic cleansing campaign before our hand is forced".