Turkish MFA: russia's annexation of the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea was illegal

Ankara's position on the issue of non-recognition of russia's illegal annexation of the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea and support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity remains unchanged. This was said in a statement by the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, released on March 16 in connection with the ninth anniversary of the annexation of the Crimea peninsula, according to the Anadolu Agency.

The statement emphasizes the illegitimacy of the referendum conducted by russia on March 16, 2014 in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, which was part of Ukraine.

The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs reminded that in violation of international law, the peninsula was annexed by russia following an illegitimate referendum.

"On the anniversary of the annexation, we confirm Ankara's unchanged position on non-recognition of the situation. We emphasize our support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. The situation of the Crimean Tatars, who are the indigenous people of the peninsula, remains a priority for Turkey. Ankara advocates for the preservation of the historical identity of the Crimean Tatars in their historical homeland. Turkey will continue its efforts to ensure the security and peaceful living of the Crimean Tatars", - the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized.

As previously reported, Podolyak promises that the summer season in Crimea will be "hot and scorching".