“Crimea and Sevastopol Are Ukraine,” EU Commission President Reaffirms

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed the European Union's unwavering support for Ukraine's territorial integrity during her address at the fourth Crimean Platform summit.

"It is clear to us: Crimea and Sevastopol are Ukraine. The EU will always support the territorial integrity of Ukraine," von der Leyen stated.

"Ten years have passed since Russia began its aggression against Ukraine. Ukrainians bravely demanded justice, democracy, and a European future. Russia responded by illegally occupying the peninsula.”

“The EU will never waver in supporting Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Together, we will stand and win, united in our commitment to a free and democratic Ukraine," von der Leyen affirmed.

The Crimean Platform is an international coordination mechanism initiated by Ukraine to bring the issue of Crimea back to the agenda, protect human rights in Crimea, and promote the de-occupation of the peninsula, while strengthening European and global security.