Zelenskyy speaks on Crimea and its surroundings: 'We have not established control'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that as of now, they have not established full fire control over Crimea and the surrounding waters, but that it is a matter of time and they will achieve it.

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Zelenskyy speaks on Crimea and its surroundings: 'We have not established control'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered a speech via video conference at the 2nd Parliamentary Summit of the Crimea Platform, held in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, with delegations from more than 50 countries in attendance.

''THE PERCEPTION OF INVINCIBLE DOMINANCE IN THE BLACK SEA''

Stating that Russia's control over the Black Sea and the presence of its fleet there created a perception that its dominance in the Black Sea was insurmountable, Zelenskyy assessed, "In addition to this, the impression that Crimea was supposedly conquered could be created due to the deliberate settlement of hundreds of thousands of Russian citizens in Crimea and the occupier's suppression of all forms of freedom and resistance. Now these illusions are melting away."

''WE WILL FIND THEM EVERYWHERE''

Pointing out that thanks to the actions of the Ukrainian defense forces, the Russian fleet can no longer operate in the western part of the Black Sea and is gradually withdrawing from Crimea, Zelenskyy said, "The Russian leadership recently had to announce the creation of a new base for the Black Sea fleet in the occupied territories of Georgia, that is, in the southeastern part of the sea, as far as possible from Ukrainian missiles and naval drones, but we will find them everywhere."

''WE HAVE NOT ESTABLISHED CONTROL''

Noting that Russia no longer has a safe base or logistics route in Crimea, or along the coasts of the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov, Zelenskyy stated, "We do not currently have full fire control over Crimea and the surrounding waters, but we will. It is a matter of time."

Zelenskyy reported that since Russia's withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative, approximately 50 ships have entered Ukrainian ports for loading through the temporary export corridors they established in the Black Sea, and more than 50 more are planned to dock at the ports.

Touching upon the Israel-Palestine conflict in the Middle East, Zelenskyy said, "I call on all leaders to support efforts to protect civilians, wherever they may live, and to stabilize the region. Without stability in the region, it will be much more difficult to ensure the return of peace to Europe."

Zelenskyy emphasized that ways to release hostages must be sought to prevent destruction in the Middle East.

News Source: AA