“Condemnation is a powerful tool but only if it is linked to accountability. It is absolutely crucial that those responsible are held to account and the Netherlands therefore will use every opportunity to underline the restoration of human rights, international law, and democracy to the people of Crimea and to all Ukrainians at large”, Kajsa Ollongren, Minister of Defence of the Netherlands. 

Minister of Defence of the Netherlands Kajsa Ollongren highlighted the importance of restoring territorial integrity, and sovereignty of Ukraine during her speech at the Summit. She also mentioned the illegal occupation of Ukrainian territories, including the Crimean peninsula, and reiterated that many residents of Crimea have been forced to flee to other parts of the country leaving their roots behind. 

“For those who remain, life is becoming more and more complicated because of human rights violations, and the dangers related to wartime activities on the Crimean peninsula”, added Kajsa Ollongren. 

Furthermore, the Minister of Defence of the Netherlands spoke of the maritime security dimension focusing on the consequences of the Russian aggression on international shipping and the world’s food supply. 

“Using food supply as a weapon is unacceptable and highly destabilizing for some of the world’s most vulnerable people and volatile regions”, mentioned Kajsa Ollongren. She highlighted the dangers of sea mines and reminded about the Dutch decision to train two Ukrainian cruises for mine hunting vessels that will help Ukraine clear the Black Sea and counter the undersea threats against international shipping. 

“I remain hopeful and also convinced that Ukraine will be able to celebrate its freedom and its independence under peaceful conditions in the future. And it’s up to all of us to make sure that we do our utmost to make this possible”, concluded  Kajsa Ollongren.

#CrimeaPlatform #CrimeaIsUkraine #КримЦеУкраїна #КримськаПлатформа #crimea