MFA: Ongoing repression in Crimea exposes myth of “homecoming” to Russia

26.02.2026 14:00

Ukrinform

Russia does not believe in its own narratives about Crimea, because if its “historical version” were convincing, the Kremlin would not have to use force to suppress dissent and resistance.

This was stated by Deputy Foreign Minister Yevhen Perebyinis in his speech at the forum dedicated to the Day of Resistance to the Occupation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol, “Crimea: The home we are fighting for,” held at Ukrinform's office.

The diplomat noted that 12 years have passed since the beginning of the occupation of Crimea, and Russia continues to try to convince the world that the issue of Crimea is supposedly closed, that the peninsula has supposedly returned to its “motherland.”

“However, the reality is quite different. If Russia were truly confident in its version of history, it would not invest so much effort in suppressing any signs of dissent on the peninsula.” Perebyinis said.

In this context, he noted that today we are seeing a systematic policy by the occupying authorities aimed at changing reality. In particular, this involves changing the demographic composition of the peninsula, forced passportization, militarization, indoctrination of children and young people, and persecution of activists, journalists, and human rights defenders.

“The Kremlin continues to persecute anyone who opposes the occupation. Crimean Tatars, Ukrainian activists, independent journalists, and religious leaders are under attack... All this is part of a systematic policy of pressure. But despite everything, resistance continues, and that is why Crimea does not disappear from the international agenda,” the deputy foreign minister stressed.

He stressed that Ukraine has not and will never accept the Russian occupation of Crimea.

“We remember every one of our citizens who remain on the peninsula and continue to work for their release, for the restoration of justice, and for the return of Crimea,” the diplomat assured.

As is well known, February 26 is observed in Ukraine as the Day of Resistance to the Occupation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol, a commemorative date established in honor of the mass pro-Ukrainian rally in Simferopol in 2014.