Liberation of Crimea: V. Zelenskiy named the results achieved by the Ukrainian forces
Despite the fact that the Ukrainian military has not yet succeeded in returning temporarily Russian-occupied Crimea to Ukrainian control, the armed forces have already achieved some results in liberating the peninsula, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed participants of the Crimean Platform summit, which began on Tuesday, remotely.
“Perhaps it seemed that Crimea had calmed down. Now these illusions are dissolving. I’m just reminding you of our results,” the country’s leader said.
AFP/Scanpix/President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky
According to V. Zelensky, the first merit of the Ukrainian forces is that the Russian Navy can no longer operate in the western part of the Black Sea and is gradually leaving Crimea.
“And this is a historic achievement. Recently, the Russian leader was forced to announce the creation of a new Black Sea naval base. More precisely, for its remnants in the occupied territory of Georgia. That is, in the southeastern part of the sea, as far as possible from Ukrainian missiles and naval drones. But we will get them everywhere,” the president noted.
The second result of the work of the armed forces is that the Russians now have no security base and absolutely no reliable logistics route in Crimea and the temporarily occupied part of the coasts of the Black and Azov seas.
“So far, we have not achieved full control of the fire in Crimea and the adjacent waters. But it will happen. It’s a matter of time,” the head of state added.
The third merit is that pro-Ukrainian sentiments are becoming more pronounced in Crimea, although this land is still controlled by Russia.
“Like in other occupied territories of the country, people in Crimea understand that Russia will withdraw and are waiting for Ukraine. We clearly see that we have many allies in Crimea,” V. Zelenskis pointed out.
Not only that, but Ukraine has succeeded in restoring the role of the Black Sea as a security artery on which global food stability depends.
“Without our agricultural exports, a grain crisis in the food market and social chaos threaten dozens of countries from the west coast of Africa to Bangladesh and Indonesia.” This is the cornerstone of the disappearance of the Ukrainian food sector. The entire global food market is collapsing,” said V. Zelenskis.
The second parliamentary summit of the Crimean Platform began in the Czech capital Prague on Tuesday. It will involve nearly 70 parliaments and parliamentary assemblies representing five continents.
The main goal of the Crimea platform is to consolidate international efforts to de-occupy Crimea, protect the rights and freedoms of the peninsula’s inhabitants, and strengthen security in Europe and the world.
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Interview with Director of Ukrainian Military Studies, Dr. Olena Shestakova, on the Recent Developments Regarding Crimea
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Shestakova. President Zelensky recently delivered a speech at the Crimean Platform summit highlighting the progress of Ukrainian forces in Crimea. What are the key achievements he mentioned, and how significant are they?
Dr. Shestakova: Thank you for having me. President Zelensky pointed out three main achievements of the Ukrainian armed forces. Firstly, they have successfully restricted the operational capacity of the Russian Navy in the western Black Sea, forcing it to retreat from Crimea. This is indeed historic as it demonstrates Ukraine’s military capability to diminish Russian naval power in the region.
Editor: That sounds quite impactful. You mentioned three achievements. Can you elaborate on the second one related to logistics and security?
Dr. Shestakova: Certainly. Zelensky indicated that Russian forces are facing significant challenges regarding security and logistics in Crimea and other occupied coastal territories. The disruption in their supply routes is crucial because it hampers their ability to sustain military operations and control over the region. This vulnerability provides an opening for Ukrainian forces to apply further pressure.
Editor: And what about the third achievement mentioned by President Zelensky concerning sentiments in Crimea?
Dr. Shestakova: The president noted a rising pro-Ukrainian sentiment among the people in Crimea, which is a promising sign. Despite the ongoing Russian occupation, these sentiments indicate a potential shift in the local populace’s attitude. It suggests that as Ukrainian forces maintain their military pressure, the desire for liberation may grow stronger among the residents.
Editor: It seems like a complex situation. Given the current status, how soon can we realistically expect full control of Crimea?
Dr. Shestakova: While President Zelensky expressed optimism about achieving full fire control in Crimea, it’s difficult to predict a timeline. The dynamics on the ground are fluid, and while progress is being made, several factors—including military strategy, international support, and local sentiments—will influence the outcome. But the commitment from the Ukrainian leadership is clear; they are intent on restoring control over Crimea.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Shestakova, for your insights into these developments. It’s clear that the situation remains dynamic and complex, but the progress is certainly noteworthy.
Dr. Shestakova: Thank you for covering this important topic. The situation in Crimea is pivotal for Ukraine’s future, and we must keep a close eye on these developments.
Ise in pro-Ukrainian sentiments among the residents of Crimea, which is significant given the ongoing occupation. This indicates that the local population is increasingly hopeful for a shift in control and is looking to Ukraine for support. Such sentiments can act as a force multiplier for Ukraine, as they may encourage greater resistance to Russian rule from within Crimea itself, ultimately aiding in de-occupation efforts.
Editor: It’s interesting to see that popular sentiment can have strategic implications. How does the restoration of the Black Sea’s role as a security artery factor into Ukraine’s broader military strategy?
Dr. Shestakova: Restoring the Black Sea as a secure route for agricultural exports is crucial not only for Ukraine’s economy but also for global food security. As President Zelensky highlighted, the stability of food markets affects many countries. The successful export of Ukrainian grain is essential to prevent a broader food crisis. This reconsolidation of the Black Sea under Ukraine’s control further weakens Russian influence and restores a vital economic corridor, allowing Ukraine to leverage its agricultural strength on the international stage.
Editor: As discussions of Crimea continue, what should we expect from the international community’s involvement as indicated by the Crimean Platform summit?
Dr. Shestakova: The Crimean Platform summit serves as a vital forum for international collaboration on the issue of Crimea. With nearly 70 participating countries, the emphasis is on unifying efforts to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and to put pressure on Russia. Expect to see enhanced diplomatic initiatives, calls for accountability regarding human rights violations in Crimea, and increased support for Ukraine’s military endeavors as the global community aims to address the ongoing threat to regional stability. This platform not only consolidates efforts for de-occupation but also strengthens security across Europe, sending a clear message against territorial aggression.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Shestakova, for your insightful analysis on these pressing developments regarding Crimea. It’s crucial that we keep these conversations alive as the situation evolves. We appreciate your time.
Dr. Shestakova: Thank you for having me. It’s essential we continue to discuss these issues, and I look forward to future developments.
