Zelensky aims to reclaim Crimea from Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has promised to reclaim Crimea, which Russia seized on March 18, 2014. This event marked a major shift in Russia's relations with the West and set the stage for a larger conflict in Ukraine. Crimea is a strategically important area located in the Black Sea. Its value comes from its naval bases and coastline, which have long been sought after by Russia. The region has a complicated history, previously inhabited by Turkic-speaking Tatars, and it became part of Russia in the 18th century. After being briefly independent and then incorporated into the Soviet Union, Crimea was transferred to Ukraine in 1954. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Crimea became part of independent Ukraine, but Russia maintained a naval presence in Sevastopol. In 2014, Russia annexed Crimea after a controversial referendum, which was deemed illegal by Ukraine and most of the international community. This annexation boosted Russian President Vladimir Putin's popularity. Since then, tensions have remained high. Protests in Ukraine led to the ousting of a pro-Moscow president. In response, Putin sent troops into Crimea, claiming the region was a "sacred place." Many Crimean Tatars opposed the annexation, leading to significant repression and an exodus from the peninsula. Zelensky has made it clear that Ukraine aims to recover Crimea. In addition, Russia's annexation led to widespread sanctions from the U.S. and European Union. Fighting in eastern Ukraine escalated after the annexation, with Russia supporting pro-Kremlin rebels. In February 2022, Putin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russian forces used Crimea as a base for operations, quickly capturing parts of southern Ukraine. Recently, Ukraine has shifted to aggressive tactics, launching drone attacks and targeting Russian military assets in Crimea. As the conflict continues, Crimea remains a key focus for both nations, illustrating the deep historical and strategic significance of the region.