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Turkey: Does Not Recognize Crimea's Annexation by Russia - Reference to Tatars

Published March 16, 2026, 10:09
Turkey: Does Not Recognize Crimea's Annexation by Russia - Reference to Tatars

Turkey reiterated its position that it does not recognize Russia's annexation of Crimea, on the occasion of the twelfth anniversary of the controversial 2014 referendum. In a statement, the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the annexation as illegal and a violation of international law, emphasizing Turkey's support for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Ukraine. It also referred to the situation of the Crimean Tatars, a community that Turkey considers particularly important, stating that the issue of their rights will remain on its agenda. This statement was issued during a period of tension in relations between Russia and the West due to the annexation of Crimea.