Sixth International Crimea Platform Summit Held at the United Nations
During the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, the Sixth International Crimea Platform Summit convened, bringing together delegates from more than 60 countries and international organizations. The summit focused on sustaining global attention to the ongoing temporary occupation of Crimea and other Ukrainian territories, addressing the security risks posed by Russian control, and highlighting human rights violations. Attendees adopted a Final Statement reaffirming international solidarity with Ukraine.
This marked the second time the summit took place at the United Nations headquarters. Discussions centered on political persecution, unlawful detention of Ukrainian citizens, repression of the Crimean Tatar community, and restrictions on freedom of expression and religion. Special emphasis was placed on the status of the Crimean Tatars as an indigenous people of Ukraine and the need to safeguard their rights under international law.
Key Speeches and Calls for Action
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the summit, stating:
“Ukraine is prepared to do its part to ensure safe and secure maritime navigation and food security in the Black Sea—provided Russia is willing to take concrete steps toward de-escalation.”
Andriy Sybiha highlighted the security threats to the Black Sea region stemming from Russia’s occupation and militarization of Crimea, emphasizing:
“Today, the International Crimea Platform stands for security, humanity, and dignity. Russia uses occupied Crimea as a launchpad for attacks on Ukraine, and its ongoing militarization poses a danger to the entire Black Sea area.”
Participants reiterated their commitment to the core principles of the UN Charter, including:
- sovereign equality of states,
- territorial integrity,
- and respect for internationally recognized borders.
They stressed that no unlawful actions by the Russian Federation can alter the internationally recognized legal status of Ukraine’s temporarily occupied territories. Crimea and other occupied regions remain an integral part of Ukraine.
The Ukrainian Foreign Minister urged a shift from political statements to tangible measures supporting Ukraine. The summit concluded with the adoption of a Final Document underscoring global unity with Ukraine and a continued commitment to restoring its territorial integrity. The International Crimea Platform has become a significant component of international efforts to uphold international law and security in Europe and the Black Sea region.
The Sixth International Crimea Platform Summit reaffirmed enduring global backing for Ukraine’s sovereignty and human rights. The involvement of a broad coalition of states reflects worldwide concern over Crimea’s situation and a collective resolve to counter aggression and promote stability in the Black Sea area. The adopted Final Document is expected to guide future diplomatic initiatives in support of Ukraine within the framework of international policy.
As discussions at the summit underscored the urgency of addressing the ongoing challenges posed by the Russian occupation, Zelensky emphasized the need for the complete restoration of Ukraine’s sovereignty, including Crimea. This call aligns with the broader commitment of the international community to uphold Ukraine's territorial integrity and human rights amidst escalating tensions in the region.