Erdogan Declares Crimea Not Recognized as Part of Russia

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has sent a video message to the leaders of the Crimean Platform at its third summit. He stated that Turkey recognizes Ukraine's territorial integrity, including Crimea. Ermenihaber reports on this.

Erdogan, congratulating on Ukraine's Flag Day, noted that they continue efforts to restore the Black Sea Initiative and should avoid any actions that would further escalate tensions during this process.

"I believe that this platform, created to more effectively protect the case of Crimea through peaceful means, will strengthen the messages we want to convey regarding the issue of Crimea. Turkey, which does not recognize the annexation of Crimea, has firmly asserted from the first day that this step is illegal. We also maintain our position in favor of Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty," he said.

The Turkish leader expressed hope that the Vice President of the Crimean Tatar Milli Meclis, Neriman Jelal, and his colleagues would be released, emphasizing that "ensuring the safety and well-being of our Turkish relatives among the indigenous people of Crimea is also one of Turkey's priorities."