22 October 2024

The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine delivered a speech at the Riigikogu of Estonia ahead of the Third Parliamentary Summit of the Crimea Platform

During his address at the Riigikogu of Estonia, ahead of the Third Parliamentary Summit of the Crimea Platform, the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Ruslan Stefanchuk, expressed his sincere gratitude to the Estonian people for their solidarity and unwavering support that Estonia has provided to Ukraine during its defense against Russian aggression.

In his speech, he thanked the Riigikogu for recognizing the 1944 deportation of the Crimean Tatars as an act of genocide and emphasized the importance of this step for international recognition of the deportation as genocide. He noted that this gesture is not only an expression of historical justice but also a confirmation of the world’s principled stance against Russian aggression.

“As a decisive step towards restoring justice, I see the recent decision of the Riigikogu of Estonia to recognize the 1944 deportation of the Crimean Tatars as an act of genocide. We are immensely grateful to you for this. On October 16, you unanimously declared that Crimea is Ukraine, Russian aggression is a crime, and the deportation of the Crimean Tatars is genocide. This step is especially significant this year, as Ukrainians and Crimean Tatars commemorate the 80th anniversary of the deportation and honor the memory of its victims,” he emphasized.

In his speech, the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada stressed that Russia’s actions today are a continuation of its genocidal policies, and it is crucial to hold all those responsible for these crimes accountable. He called for increased support for Ukraine and for enhancing military aid.

During his address, Ruslan Stefanchuk presented the Estonian parliamentarians with the five points of the Victory Plan proposed by the President of Ukraine. The plan includes inviting Ukraine to NATO, strengthening defense capabilities, deterring the aggressor, developing strategic economic potential, and ensuring security in the post-war period. Stefanchuk urged partners to support this plan to achieve a just peace.

“I want to thank you, dear friends and colleagues, for each of the nine powerful statements in support of Ukraine. Thank you for not letting the world forget about the war waged against Ukraine. Thank you for speaking out loudly to fight alongside us and for convincing partners and those who hesitate,” Ruslan Stefanchuk noted.