Ukraine Marks Day of Resistance to Crimea Occupation Amid Ongoing Tensions

Image credits: Ukrinform

Ukraine has marked the Day of Resistance to the Occupation of Crimea, with President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasizing that the country will not allow Russia to normalize the occupation of the peninsula. In a message on Telegram, Zelensky noted that the day is a tribute to the courage and honesty of those who have resisted Russian aggression since the beginning of the occupation 11 years ago. He highlighted the importance of the Crimean Platform, which was established to keep the issue of Crimea's liberation on the international agenda, and the efforts to release Crimean prisoners from Russian captivity.

The President also emphasized that Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and security are non-negotiable and will not be compromised. He expressed gratitude to all those who support Ukraine in its struggle for freedom and independence. The Day of Resistance to the Occupation of Crimea is a memorable date that commemorates the rally of Crimean Tatars and Ukrainians in Simferopol in 2014, which was held in support of Ukraine's territorial integrity and against the Russian occupation.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian diplomacy has been working to maintain international attention on the Crimean issue, using membership and tools of international organizations to keep the pressure on Russia. Deputy Foreign Minister Yevhen Perebyinis recently participated in a panel discussion on the topic, emphasizing the importance of continuing work with partners in the format of the International Crimea Platform and expanding the geography of its participants. He also noted the need to strengthen sanctions pressure on Russia and to consolidate the evidence base for decisions of international courts related to Russian aggression against Ukraine.

The situation in Crimea remains tense, with 221 Ukrainian citizens, including 134 Crimean Tatars, being held in Russian prisons. According to Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, these political prisoners are being tortured and kept in horrible conditions. Despite the repression, Ukraine continues to fight for the liberation of Crimea and the protection of its citizens' rights. The international community has condemned the Russian annexation of Crimea, with several resolutions adopted in support of Ukraine's territorial integrity and the condemnation of the illegal annexation.

The list of key events and statements related to the Day of Resistance to the Occupation of Crimea includes: * February 26, 2014: Rally of Crimean Tatars and Ukrainians in Simferopol in support of Ukraine's territorial integrity * 2014: Beginning of Russian occupation of Crimea * 2023: Establishment of the International Crimea Platform * February 26, 2025: President Zelensky's message on Telegram emphasizing Ukraine's commitment to resisting Russian occupation * February 26, 2025: Deputy Foreign Minister Yevhen Perebyinis's participation in a panel discussion on the Crimean issue * February 26, 2025: Defense Minister Rustem Umerov's statement on the situation of Ukrainian citizens in Russian prisons.