The article delves into the complex history of Crimea, tracing its ownership from the Crimean Khanate to its incorporation into the Russian Empire and then the Soviet Union. It notes the transfer of Crimea from Russia to Ukraine in 1954, highlighting its context within the Soviet Union and subsequent agreements recognizing Ukrainian sovereignty.
The piece refutes Russia's claims to Crimea based on historical rights, pointing out the illegitimacy of the referendums held under military occupation. It underscores the violation of international law, referencing the Budapest Memorandum, where Ukraine surrendered its nuclear weapons in exchange for security guarantees from Russia and the US. The article highlights that the 1990 agreement between Russia and Ukraine recognized the existing administrative borders as their state borders.
The article criticizes the ignorance displayed by Steve Witkoff, Donald Trump's special negotiator, regarding the legal and historical realities of Crimea's annexation. Witkoff's acceptance of the Kremlin's narrative is seen as alarming. The article contrasts this with the established understanding of international law amongst experts. It also references potential U.S. disregard for international law, mentioning possibilities of annexing territory from allies.
The article describes significant demographic shifts in Crimea's population over the centuries, focusing on the displacement of Crimean Tatars and the influence of Russian settlement.
In conclusion, the article asserts the illegality of Russia's annexation of Crimea, citing the violation of international law and the questionable nature of the referendums used to justify the annexation. It also criticizes the apparent ignorance or disregard for these facts displayed by certain international actors.