Hempel noted that he would also suggest starting with “simple and obvious things,” namely, ending the conflict in southeastern Ukraine, which, in his opinion, would be “a great relief” for all citizens of the country and its neighbors.
He also stressed that talking about the claims of Zelensky and Ukraine as a whole on the territory of Crimea is "inappropriate and not diplomatic."
“Crimea returned to Russia by the will of its citizens. And today it is not necessary to talk about the return of Crimea to Ukraine, and it’s incorrect, ”Hempel concluded.
Earlier, Zelensky, speaking at the Age of Crimea 2020 forum, said that the "return" of Crimea is part of the national idea of Ukraine.
Crimea became the Russian region after a referendum held there in March 2014, in which most residents spoke out for reunification with Russia.