After the S400 missile deal, Türkiye refuses to recognize the unification of Crimea with Russia.
Türkiye does not recognize the reunification of Crimea with Russia, will continue to protect the rights of Crimean Tatars, Turkish leader Tayyip Erdogan said at a joint press conference with his Ukrainian counterpart Vladimir Zelensky, who is on an official visit to Ankara.
"Today I once again affirm that Türkiye will always support the independence of Ukraine. Türkiye has not recognized and will not recognize the annexation of Crimea. Crimean Tatars are an important element of the relations between our countries. Protecting the rights of Crimean Tatars and preserving their national identity will be our priority," Erdogan said.
According to him, Türkiye hopes that the conflict in eastern Ukraine will end soon.
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“We support the Minsk process and the OSCE mission, which includes Turkish diplomats. Yesterday, we learned that four soldiers were killed in eastern Ukraine. I send my condolences to the Ukrainian president and the people,” the Turkish president added.
BeforeUkrainian President Vladimir Zelenskybelieves that Crimea will return to Ukraine. The head of state said this at a meeting with the Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar communities in Ankara.
When did Crimea become part of Russia?
Crimeareturned to Russia in March 2014, following a referendum held after the coup in Ukraine. 96.77% of voters in the Republic of Crimea and 95.6% of Sevastopol residents supported unification with Russia. Moscow has repeatedly stated that it made the decision democratically, in full compliance with international law and the UN Charter. According to President Vladimir Putin, the Crimea issue is completely closed.
