MFA: Foreign Ministry’s statement on the fifth anniversary of Crimea's illegal annexation

The construction of the Kerch Strait Bridge violates Ukraine's territorial integrity and restricts free navigation through the strait. Finland urges peaceful resolution of the problems concerning the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait and avoidance of steps that would re-escalate the situation. The 24 Ukrainian crew members, detained by Russia, should be released without delay. The increasing militarisation of Crimea further aggravates the tense security situation in the Black Sea region.

Finland is concerned about the weakening human rights situation in Crimea and about the fate of the nearly 70 Ukrainian civilians imprisoned by Russia. International organisations should have unimpeded access to Crimea. We consider it important that Russia release the unlawfully detained Ukrainians kept without justification, investigate the human rights violations, and bring the guilty to justice. 

High Representative Frederica Mogherini issued a joint declaration by the EU on 17 March 2019 

Inquiries: Päivi Peltokoski, Director, Unit for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, tel. +358 50 599 5237.

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