26 February 2025

Permanent Representative Olha Kuryshko Addresses the 11 Years of War. Starting Point: Crimea Forum

In her speech, Olha Kuryshko emphasized that Crimea is neither silent nor surrendering. On the contrary, it remains a symbol of unity and freedom, while its residents, despite the repressive actions of the occupying administration, continue to resist. The Permanent Representative recalled the events of February 26, 2014—the day when Crimeans gathered in a mass rally in Simferopol to defend Ukraine’s territorial integrity and prevent the legitimization of Russia’s attempted annexation of the peninsula.

Olha Kuryshko stated that Crimea has been under occupation for 11 years and that the occupiers have turned it into a true prison. She mentioned the names of political prisoners held by Russia, including Aasan Akhmetov, along with hundreds of others who have been deprived of their freedom simply for their pro-Ukrainian stance.

The Permanent Representative expressed her gratitude to all Crimeans who, despite pressure and repression, have not broken. She stressed that the aggressor must be held accountable for its crimes, adding that sanctions, political and military support for Ukraine, as well as rulings by international courts, are key steps toward victory.

“Every sanction, every decision, every action in support of Ukraine is another step toward Crimea’s liberation. The Crimea Platform is our joint international forum that works to free the peninsula from the aggressor,” the Permanent Representative stated.

She addressed Crimeans who remain under occupation, assuring them that Ukraine has not forgotten them:
“We will return. We are proud of you. Crimea is Ukraine!”