Zelensky at the UN General Assembly: Crimean Muslims are among the main victims of Russian repression in Crimea
“I am pleased to welcome you all to the Crimean Platform Summit, where more than 60 countries are participating. This is truly a remarkable achievement. This summit is being held for the first time at a global level, alongside the UN General Assembly,” said Zelensky as he opened the summit, as reported by Ukrinform.
He emphasized that the lack of an adequate response to the occupation of Crimea 11 years ago demonstrated to many aggressive powers how easy it is to take a piece of another country. However, he assured everyone that Ukraine, with the support of international partners, will continue to fight.
“We are taking action to prevent Russia from turning Crimea into a large military base. We must do this to protect the lives of our people. Our long-range drones are precise, and our pressure on Russian logistics is producing results. The Russian war machine is encountering serious difficulties,” the president stated.
Zelensky also called on the world to remember the suffering of civilians whose lives have been devastated by Russia in the occupied territories.
"Today, the most severe repression occurs in Crimea and other areas under Russian control, targeting those who speak the truth and seek freedom, including freedom of religion. Crimean Tatars and Muslims are among the primary victims of this repression. Consider this: some prisoners in Crimea have been deprived of their liberty since 2014 — it's been 11 years now. Therefore, Ukraine's main message is clear: we must not allow war to become the norm," the head of state emphasized.
He expressed gratitude to everyone who maintains and strengthens sanctions in response to Russia's aggression.
"There can be no easing or lifting of sanctions against Russia while the war and occupation continue. There can be no forgiveness for what Russia has done since 2014. The occupier must be held accountable for the occupation and for all the crimes committed during this war — a war for which Russia alone is responsible," Zelensky concluded.
