Defense Minister of Turkey reassures backing of Ukraine regarding Crimea situation

2025-09-25 05:25:15

(MENAFN) Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler reaffirmed Türkiye’s backing of Ukraine regarding the Crimea situation, which Russia annexed in 2014, on Wednesday.

Speaking at the fifth Crimea Platform summit on the sidelines of the 80th UN General Assembly session in New York, Guler stated that a peaceful resolution of Crimea is “inseparable from the quest for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.”

He emphasized that the Crimean Tatars, a Turkic ethnic group, have long been an “integral” part of Ukraine’s diverse society and have contributed to peace and stability. Guler reminded that Türkiye has never recognized Russia’s annexation of Crimea and has consistently supported Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

“Defending the rights of the Crimean Tatars is not only a matter of foreign policy, but a historical and moral duty for us. We will continue our relentless pursuit to amplify their voices, protect their rights and ensure their freedom and dignity,” he added.

Guler expressed encouragement that Ukraine is protecting the rights of the Crimean Tatars and reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to supporting President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s “commitment to the Crimean cause,” noting that Ankara will “continue its efforts towards this end.”

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