Turkish President Erdogan Reaffirms Support for Ukraine's Territorial Integrity
This the critical role of diplomatic support in geopolitical conflicts, highlighting Türkiye's stance as a key player in advocating for Ukraine's rights amidst the ongoing war with Russia.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
Turkey’s reaffirmed support for Ukraine and explicit call for the return of Crimea signify a robust stance in international diplomacy. As the situation develops the global community watches closely, with Turkey playing a pivotal role in shaping the geopolitical landscape around the Black Sea and Eastern Europe.
In a significant display of diplomatic solidarity, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has once again underscored Türkiye's unwavering support for Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty. This stance was reiterated during a video address at the Fourth Crimea Platform Summit held in Kyiv on September 11, 2024.
Key Points of Erdogan's Address
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Support for Ukraine's Territorial Integrity
- Erdogan reaffirmed that Türkiye's support for Ukraine's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence is permanent and unwavering.
- This commitment is particularly crucial given the ongoing conflict with Russia, emphasizing Türkiye's stance as a strong ally to Ukraine in this geopolitical context.
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Demand for Crimea's Return
- The Turkish President emphasized that the return of Crimea to Ukraine is a requirement of international law, highlighting the illegality of Russia's annexation in 2014.
- This stance aligns with the positions of the United States and the United Nations General Assembly, which also consider the annexation illegal.
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Strategic Importance of Crimea
- significant strategic importance due to its geographical position in the Black Sea. For Türkiye, maintaining a balance between relations with Kiev and Moscow is crucial, yet Ankara firmly condemns Russian occupation.
- The region's strategic value underscores the necessity of resolving the conflict in a manner that respects Ukraine's sovereignty.
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Diplomatic Support for Ukraine
- Erdogan's message at the Crimea Platform Summit reflects Türkiye's ongoing diplomatic support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.
- Despite being a NATO member, Ankara navigates complex relations with Moscow, balancing its alliances while advocating for international law and territorial integrity.
Historical Context and International Implications
- Annexation of Crimea: In February 2014, Russian forces seized the Crimean Peninsula, and by March of the same year, Vladimir Putin had formally annexed it. Since then, ethnic Tatars in Crimea have faced persistent persecution.
- International Response: The international community, including the United States, the United Nations General Assembly, and Türkiye, have consistently regarded Russia's annexation as illegal and have maintained their support for Ukraine's territorial integrity.
Recent Developments and Symbolic Gestures
- Crimean Platform Summit: The Fourth Crimea Platform Summit, which took place on September 11, 2024, was attended by Ukrainian leaders, international participants, and representatives of the Crimean Tatars. Erdogan's video message was a key highlight, emphasizing Türkiye's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty.
- Memorial Inauguration: On the same day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, alongside First Lady Olena Zelenskyy, inaugurated a memorial dedicated to the victims of the Crimean Tatar genocide in Kyiv. This event was also attended by high-ranking officials from Croatia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
Table: International Positions on Crimea's Status
| Entity | Position on Crimea's Status | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Türkiye | Supports Ukraine's territorial integrity; demands Crimea's return | |
| United States | Considers Russian annexation illegal | |
| United Nations General Assembly | Considers Russian annexation illegal | |
| Russia | Claims sovereignty over Crimea | |
| Ukraine | Demands return |
Conclusion
Erdogan's message at the Crimea Platform Summit underscores Türkiye's firm commitment to Ukraine's territorial integrity and of Crimea's return under Ukrainian sovereignty. This stance is crucial in the ongoing conflict with Russia, providing significant diplomatic backing to Kiev. As the conflict continues, Türkiye's balanced yet resolute approach highlights the importance of adhering to international law and respecting territorial sovereignty.
