Two years ago, the United Nations General Assembly by an overwhelming majority , with 100 votes in favour to 11 against (including Russia), adopted the resolution “Territorial integrity of Ukraine”, thus confirming Ukraine's sovereignty, political independence, unity and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.

Calling upon all States to desist and refrain from actions aimed at the partial or total disruption of the national unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine, including any attempts to modify Ukraine’s borders through the threat or use of force or other unlawful means, the resolution has become yet another evidence of full support by the entire international community to Ukraine, which became victim of Russia’s military aggression.

It is regrettable that after this clear verdict of the international community Russia did not return to the law of civilized nations. Moreover, the Moscow government continues to persist in its most flagrant violations of international law by continuing illegal occupation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol as well as its military invasion in the Ukrainian Donbas region.

Over the past two years of illegal occupation of Crimea, the Russian Federation continued blatantly infringing on human rights of its residents, including the Crimean Tatars – the indigenous people of the Crimean Peninsula.

Ukraine will take all necessary steps, in line with international law, to counter the Russian aggression, restore Ukraine’s territorial integrity and ensure that Russia makes full reparation for the injury caused by its wrongful acts.

The United Nations General Assembly resolution remains key instrument for de-occupation of Crimea, and Ukraine is looking forward to further consolidating the support of the international community for its efforts in restoring the territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.