Zelenskyy: 'There can be no full return to normality without Crimea'
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (t.me/V_Zelenskiy_official)
Russia began showing disrespect for the world in 2014, when it annexed Crimea. Only the peninsula's return to Ukraine can guarantee security and respect for the principles of international law, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in an address to participants of the sixth summit of the International Crimea Platform.
Why the de-occupation of Crimea matters
The president said that Ukraine is ready to contribute to ensuring safe and safe shipping and food security in the Black Sea. However, Russia must also take real steps toward de-escalation.
According to the president, Russia has to start somewhere — namely, by showing respect for others.
"Basic respect for the world begins with simple things: food security, energy security, and the right of people to live without fear. Russia has to go through this change," Zelenskyy said.
He noted that Russia's disrespect for the world began in 2014, when Russia invaded Ukraine's Crimea.
"There can be no full return to normality without Crimea, without restoring security, protecting people and lives, freeing the prisoners Russia is holding and returning to the basic principles of international law," the president said.
In his view, Russia must learn that territorial integrity, the sovereignty of states and human lives matter.
Earlier, RBC-Ukraine reported that Zelenskyy said Ukraine's Defense Forces had liberated 800 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory from Russian occupation in 2026.
In addition, Zelenskyy said Ukraine is ready for an energy ceasefire with Russia. He noted that a halt to attacks on energy facilities must be mutual.
Zelenskyy also said he was open to direct talks with Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
