President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the signing of a decree declaring February 26 the Day of Resistance to Occupation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol.
During the opening of the Age of Crimea 2020 forum, the Head of State recalled that on that day, six years ago, the largest gathering in support of the integrity and unity of Ukraine took place in Simferopol.
“Honoring the courage and heroism of all participants of the rally, today I am signing a decree on the Day of Resistance to Occupation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol. This day will be celebrated annually on February 26,” the President said.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed that the return of Crimea to Ukraine was not only his goal as the President and his position as a citizen.
"This is not just our shared dream. This is the key to security on the planet. This is a restoration of trust. Trust in international law and justice,” he said.
The President stressed that the world community supported Ukraine in its fight for the return of Crimea.
"And we know that this day will definitely come," the President said.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed that Crimea’s belonging to Ukraine was an axiom that did not need proof.
“Ukrainians are one hundred percent united here. Therefore, the return of Crimea is an indisputable part of our national idea,” the President is convinced.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed confidence that the day would come when Ukrainian athletes and artists would perform in Crimea again and the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people would return to the legitimate building in Simferopol.
“All this will happen for sure. And the whole world is interested in this. Because the full end of the war will be in Donbas. And in Crimea there will be full peace,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
Crimean Tatar leader Mustafa Dzhemilev thanked the President for taking the initiative to sign the decree.
"Mr. President, I sincerely thank you for your intention to sign the decree offered to you by almost 150 MPs from virtually all factions," Mustafa Dzhemilev said.