Many people around the world still believe that Russia’s war against Ukraine began in 2022. In fact, it all started in 2014 with the occupation of Crimea.
On February 20, 2014, Russia seized the Ukrainian peninsula, violating international law and all principles of global security. Crimea became a polygon of impunity. The world remained silent, and Russia took this as permission.
In a new English-language video, the Crimean Tatar Resource Center reveals the truth about the beginning of the war — how it all started in Crimea and what the aggressor’s impunity has led to.
But despite pressure, intimidation, and torture, Crimea is resisting. Crimean Tatars, Ukrainians, and all those who have not surrendered continue to fight for the truth and for the right to live on their land.
How can the enemy be stopped? The answer is obvious — sanctions against Russia and adequate provision of weapons to the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Personal sanctions should not be symbolic, but relentless.
If we do not stop evil in Crimea, it will reach every house. That is why we emphasize: there is no peace without justice, and there is no justice without the liberation of Crimea.
The video was created by the Crimean Tatar Resource Center with the support of the International Renaissance Foundation. The material represents the position of the authors and does not necessarily reflect the position of the International Renaissance Foundation.