Türkiye reaffirms support for Ukraine's territorial integrity ahead of Crimea occupation anniversary
Photo: Türkiye supported the territorial integrity of Ukraine (Getty Images)
Türkiye has stated its support for Ukraine's territorial integrity. Ankara made the statement ahead of the anniversary of Crimea's occupation by Russian forces, according to the press service of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
"On the anniversary of the illegal annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea by the Russian Federation (March 16), we once again emphasize that we do not recognize the situation in Crimea, which is a violation of international law, and that we support Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty," the statement reads.
The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs stresses that it continues to monitor events in Crimea, particularly the situation of the Crimean Tatars, and keeps their issue on the international community's agenda.
Crimea occupation
In February 2014, armed men in unmarked uniforms seized key administrative buildings in Crimea, including Simferopol airport, the Kerch ferry crossing, other strategic sites, and blocked Ukrainian military actions.
Initially, Russia did not acknowledge its involvement, but later, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin admitted that these were Russian soldiers.
On March 16, a so-called "referendum" on the status of the peninsula took place in Crimea. Two days later, on March 18, Putin announced the "annexation" of Crimea to Russia. This date is considered the start of the annexation of the Ukrainian peninsula.
