Today, the Second Black Sea Security Conference of the International Crimean Platform has begun in Sofia, Bulgaria, where participants will analyze the impact of Russian aggression on the security situation in the Black Sea-Azov region and beyond, discuss strategies for responding to existing threats and the future of regional security. The key topic of discussion will also be the implementation of the Ukrainian Peace Formula.

In her speech, Tamila Tasheva emphasized that ten years ago, Russia began the temporary occupation of part of Ukrainian territory, including the Crimean peninsula, and established control over almost the entire Black Sea and Azov region:

The international community’s inadequate response in 2014 contributed to the aggressor state’s further attack in 2022. Russia has launched a large-scale invasion of Ukraine, using, among other things, the previously occupied Crimea as a military base.

the Permanent Representative emphasized.

Tamila Tasheva highlighted the global impact of Russia’s criminal actions, utilizing its armed forces in the Black Sea for both a full-scale invasion and a naval blockade as a means of economic pressure on Ukraine.

Russia is attacking port infrastructure and civilian cargo ships, obstructing freedom of navigation in the Black Sea, threatening global food security.

Tamila Tasheva added.

The remarks made by the Permanent Representative highlighted the achievements of Ukraine in the Black Sea region. Despite not having its own fleet, Ukraine succeeded in stabilizing the situation and dealt a significant blow to the Russian Black Sea Fleet, which suffered considerable damage. Ms. Tasheva emphasized that this success was the result of two factors – the bravery and expertise of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, as well as the support provided by Western countries in the form of advanced weaponry.

During her speech, Tamila Tasheva highlighted the resistance shown by Ukrainian citizens residing in Crimea against the occupation regime. She reiterated the criminal actions of the occupiers, who regularly violated human rights, including those of the indigenous people of Ukraine. Tasheva urged the international community to strengthen their support towards Ukraine, emphasizing the need to liberate all occupied territories of Ukraine, including Crimea. She also stressed the importance of involving key countries in the region and Europe to restore security.