Occupation of Crimea: Turkey reaffirms its support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity

The Turkish Foreign Ministry said this in a press release regarding the sixth anniversary of the illegal annexation of Crimea.

“Turkey and the international community do not recognize the illegal annexation of the Crimean Autonomous Republic of Ukraine by the Russian Federation based on an illegitimate referendum which was held six years ago today,” reads the statement.

The statement notes that safe and secure living conditions of Crimean Tatars in their historical homeland, preservation of their cultural identity and elimination of damage from the consequences of annexation will remain the priority for Turkey.

“Turkey confirms once again its support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, a strategic partner of Turkey,” the report says.

In March 2014, Russia annexed Crimea after an illegal referendum, which drew international condemnation as Russian soldiers occupied the region during the voting process.

Along with the UN general assembly, the U.S., EU, and Turkey do not recognize Crimea as Russian territory.

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