10 years after annexation of Crimea, Ukrainian government official says: “Retake it as soon as possible”

To mark the 10th anniversary of Russia's unilateral annexation, a high-ranking official in charge of Crimea policy in the Ukrainian government gave an exclusive interview to NHK, stating that Crimea is becoming Russified and that ``We must retake it as soon as possible.'' "We cannot do this," he said, calling for cooperation from the international community.

Tamira Tasheva, the permanent representative of the President of Ukraine who is in charge of Crimea policy, gave an interview to NHK in the capital Kiiv on March 15th, regarding Crimea, which was unilaterally annexed by Russia, and said, ``For the past 10 years, the residents of Crimea have had no freedom.'' "They live in fear without the rule of law."

While approximately 800,000 people emigrated from Russia, many Ukrainians were forced to flee to other regions due to oppression, and Crimea is said to be becoming increasingly Russified.

He also touched on the construction of infrastructure in Crimea, pointing out that ``highways were designed to efficiently and quickly move troops and military equipment, and bridges were also built primarily for military purposes.'' They criticized that the purpose was to attack Ukraine rather than to develop the country.

In particular, regarding the bridge connecting Russia and Crimea, he said, ``Various weapons are constantly being supplied through here, and it should not exist,'' indicating that it will continue to be a target of attacks by the Ukrainian military.

"Time is an important factor. We must recapture Crimea as soon as possible. I deeply understand the pain that the Japanese people feel over the Northern Territories," he said, referring to the Northern Territories. He urged the urgent need to retake it.

Tasheva told the international community that the reaction to Russia's annexation ten years ago was subdued, adding, ``Besides issuing statements opposing the annexation, all partners are taking active steps.'' "This is not the case," he said, calling for cooperation, noting that it is important to obtain maximum military support from each country in order to take back Crimea.