Turkey supports Ukraine's territorial integrity on anniversary of illegal "referendum on Crimean status"

The Turkish Foreign Ministry said it does not recognize russia's annexation of Crimea and reaffirms its support for Ukraine's territorial integrity. The statement, released on the anniversary of the illegal "referendum," emphasizes the violation of international law and the need to protect the rights of Crimean Tatars.

"On the anniversary of the annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea by the russian federation through an illegitimate referendum eleven years ago (March 16), we reaffirm that we do not recognize the de facto situation in Crimea, which is a violation of international law, and that we support the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine," the statement said.

The Foreign Ministry noted that it will continue to closely monitor developments in Crimea.

"In particular, we will keep the situation of the Crimean Tatars, the indigenous people of the peninsula, on the agenda of the international community," the Turkish ministry added.

As a reminder, Erdogan hopes that russia will "respond constructively" to the 30-day ceasefire.