The statement below, on the “Third Anniversary of Russia’s Illegal, Illegitimate Crimea ‘Referendum,’ ” was released by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress on March 16.
Three years ago, on March 16, 2014, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine and occupation of Crimea, Russian “authorities” staged an illegal and illegitimate “referendum.”
In violation of international law and numerous treaties to which Russia is a signatory, the “referendum” was held under the barrels of Russian guns and in the presence of the Russian armed forces. Two days later, the Russian Federation attempted to annex Crimea.
Canada, the United States, the European Union and the international community do not recognize the results of this sham “referendum.” Crimea is an integral part of Ukraine.
In the last three years, Russian occupation “authorities” in the Crimea have instituted a regime of terror against anyone who dares oppose Russia’s illegal occupation. Crimean Tatars, ethnic Ukrainians, journalists, civic leaders and activists have been particularly targeted by the Russian occupation “authorities” and are subject to political repression, persecution and systematic human rights violations.
“As Russia’s illegal occupation of Crimea enters its fourth year, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring the return of Ukrainian authority to Crimea,” stated UCC National President Paul Grod. “We stand together with the people of Ukraine as they bravely defend their country against brutal Russian aggression. And we pray that peace soon return to Ukraine.”