“It is two years today since Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea. Norway condemns Russia’s continued occupation and illegal annexation of this part of Ukraine. Russia’s actions constitute a serious violation of international law and a challenge to the international order,” Norway’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Børge Brende commented.
The illegal annexation took place after Russian troops had first taken control of Crimea. Two years later, the situation is difficult, particularly for the many minority groups who live in Crimea.
Mr. Brende said that Russia must restore control of this part of Ukrainian territory to Ukraine’s legitimately elected authorities. International organisations such as the UN, the Council of Europe and the OSCE must be given unhindered access to Crimea.
“We are seriously concerned about the human rights situation in Crimea generally, and particularly about the political oppression of the Crimean Tatars and their organisations,” Mr. Brende commented.