EU: Construction of Russian ships in Kerch violates Ukraine’s sovereignty and international law

“Continued efforts by the Russian Federation to undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, with further attempts to forcibly integrate the illegally-annexed Crimea and Sevastopol into Russia, represent a violation of international law. The recent keel-laying ceremony of two assault ships in Kerch is yet another clear step in the ongoing militarisation of the peninsula, with a considerable negative impact on regional security in the Black Sea,” reads the statement by the EU Spokesperson on recent developments in the Crimean peninsula.

As noted, another concern is the latest restrictions on the freedom of movement of Ukrainian citizens to and from the Crimean Peninsula.

“Access to mainland Ukraine and the right to return to the place of residence has to be granted unconditionally and should not require a Russian passport. The European Union continues to expect Russia to stop all violations of international law in the Crimean Peninsula. The European Union is unwavering in its support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders,” the EU Spokesperson underscored.

On July 20, the keel-laying ceremony of two assault helicopter carriers took place at the Zaliv plant in the city of Kerch in Russian-occupied Crimea. The ceremony was attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who promised to give new military orders for the defense enterprises of occupied Crimea.

According to Russian media, Russia intends to spend about RUR 100 billion on the construction of two helicopter carriers. These ships are sometimes called the Russian counterpart of the French Mistrals, the sale of which to Russia was cancelled due to its aggression against Ukraine and the likely negative impact of such ships on regional security in the Black Sea.

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