Zelenskyy stated that a normal life for Ukrainians is impossible without the de-occupation of Crimea
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that a full return to normal life for Ukrainians after the war is impossible without the de-occupation of Crimea. According to him, this also entails restoring security, protecting people and their lives, and returning to the fundamental principles of international law.
Zelenskyy made this statement during the sixth summit of the International Crimea Platform on September 23. He emphasized that the issue of Crimea is linked to Ukraine’s territorial integrity, the safety of its people, and the need to return to compliance with international law.
Crimea as the Starting Point for Violations of International Law
Zelenskyy called the 2014 occupation of Crimea the beginning of a broader violation of international rules by Russia. He emphasized that the issue of the peninsula remains linked to the safety of people, the release of prisoners, and Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
“The disregard began with Crimea in 2014, when Russia invaded Crimea. Therefore, a full return to normal life is impossible without Crimea—without restoring security, protecting people and their lives, freeing prisoners held by Russia, and returning to the basic principles of international law. Territorial integrity matters,” the president emphasized.
Speaking about the need to uphold international law, the president noted that violations of it have consequences not only for states but also for individuals.
“We want international law to have real power. It is on this that the true value of human life depends,” Zelenskyy stated.
On Russia’s Responsibility
The president stated that Ukraine expects Russia to be held accountable for the actions that led to the war and the occupation of Ukrainian territories.
“We want Russia, which started this war and is seizing foreign lands, to be held accountable,” the president said.
On shipping in the Black Sea
The president also mentioned agreements and possible mechanisms to ensure the safety of shipping in the Black Sea. According to him, the Ukrainian side is ready for such decisions and is awaiting Russia’s position.
“Ukraine is ready to do its part to ensure peaceful and safe navigation and food security in the Black Sea—if Russia is also ready to take concrete steps toward de-escalation,” he added.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made this statement during the sixth summit of the International Crimea Platform.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke at the Sixth Summit of the International Crimea Platform, which is taking place in New York.
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