During her speech at the Fourth Crimea Platform Summit, Permanent Representative Tamila Tasheva emphasized that the issue of Crimea’s de-occupation has taken on new significance in the context of the full-scale war. She highlighted that the occupation of Crimea marked the beginning of Russian aggression, which now has global consequences for world security:

“The occupation of Crimea was the start of Russia’s aggression, but now we see its true scale – a war against global security, human rights, and the freedom of nations and people to choose their future.”

The Permanent Representative drew attention to the plight of Ukrainian citizens who have faced persecution in the occupied territories. She noted that over 219 Crimeans remain illegally imprisoned in Russia and occupied Crimea. Tasheva stressed that Ukraine is doing everything possible to secure the return of every political prisoner and bring them home.

The Permanent Representative emphasized that during the full-scale invasion, more than 1,000 Ukrainian citizens have been persecuted for resisting the occupation and war, for supporting Ukraine, and for displaying its national symbols. They are being targeted simply because they wish to live in a free Ukraine.

Tamila Tasheva also focused on concrete steps toward de-occupation, both on the battlefield and at the political-diplomatic level. Specific measures have already been developed regarding the restoration of public authority in Crimea. In collaboration with higher education institutions, educational programs have been launched to prepare administrators for the liberated territories. Additionally, legislation has been passed to provide more educational opportunities for citizens living in temporarily occupied parts of Ukraine.

“We are also working to support Ukraine’s indigenous peoples, especially the Crimean Tatars, by preserving their language and culture. We understand that our main priority is the people living in Crimea. They are ours, and we are fighting for them, for their return to Ukraine’s socio-political space,” emphasized Tamila Tasheva.

“Today, more than ever, it is crucial for the international community to support the Ukrainian Peace Formula proposed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy,” noted the Permanent Representative.

She emphasized that the Ukrainian Peace Formula clearly outlines the steps towards a just and lasting peace, one of the key elements of which is the release of all prisoners and deported individuals, including Ukrainian children, ensuring food security, and restoring Ukraine’s territorial integrity, including the de-occupation of Crimea:

“This is not only our national interest but also a global challenge for all who seek peace and security in the world.”

#Кримська Платформа2024 #CrimeaPlatform2024#КримЦеУкраїна #CrimeaIsUkraine