US recognition of Crimea as Russian threatens security in the Black Sea

Recognition of Crimea as Russian territory by the United States threatens security in the Black Sea

This was stated by former Ukrainian Ambassador to the United States Valeriy Chaly during a speech at an international security forum held in Odesa.

In his opinion, such a step by the United States would dramatically change the balance of power in the Black Sea and undermine the existing security system in the region. He emphasized that Ukraine currently controls a significant part of the water area, but if the US changes its position, this may become impossible in the future.

"As a diplomat, I understand that after the war, freedom of navigation must be ensured in full. But this is impossible without control over the Crimean peninsula. If Ukraine loses Crimea - even hypothetically - it will be a strategic disaster. And if, God forbid, the United States ever officially recognizes Crimea as part of the aggressor country, it will be another major mistake. After all, without Crimea, it is impossible to guarantee security in the eastern part of the Black Sea," he emphasized.

On May 30, the Black Sea Security Forum, the largest geopolitical event in southern Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale war, started in Odesa. More than 500 participants from more than 20 countries are taking part in the forum. The main goal is to discuss current security challenges in the Black Sea region, including military threats, economic resilience and political stability.

According to the Ambassador of Canada to Ukraine , Natalie Tsmoc, the Canadian Navy is ready to provide Ukraine with naval support in the demining of the Black Sea. According to her, Canada continues to support Ukraine and the whole of Europe. And, in particular, it is ready to help Ukraine with the demining of the Black Sea.

Ірина Глухова