Why Does Russia Care So Much About Annexing Crimea?
From a historical perspective, Crimea's relationship with modern Russia is one of tragedy and ambition. The rivalry between Russia and its neighbors saw numerous Russian defeats during the 18th and 19th centuries. One of the most celebrated instances was the tradition of Russian naval self-destruction to avoid falling into enemy hands—a testament to the deep-seated historical sentiments tied to this region. This historical context sets the stage for Russia's modern claims over Crimea.
Geopolitical Significance of Crimea
From a geopolitical standpoint, Crimea's strategic importance to Russia is undeniable. This territory offers significant advantages in terms of access to the international sea routes and control over the Black Sea. The Black Sea is a vital maritime border that supports Russia's maritime interests and provides a defensive buffer against potential threats from the west.
Historical Context of Annexation
Crimea has been under Russian control for several centuries. The transfer of Crimea to Ukraine in 1954, under the leadership of Khrushchev, was a pragmatic decision based on practical and locational reasons, rather than any clear territorial claim by Ukraine.
The modern annexation of Crimea began in 2014 with a referendum that saw 96.7% of the population voting to join Russia. This referendum was officially observed by OSCE and CIS SLO politicians and journalists, adding a degree of legitimacy to the process. Since then, Crimea has been organized as a distinct state within the Russian Federation, with its own President and a Government Council comprised of 75 members.
Notably, the separation from Ukraine occurred without any significant resistance or conflict. There were no casualties, and the jubilation of the local population was captured in photographs. The demographic breakdown of the population includes 65% Russians, 15% Ukrainians, and 10% Tatars, along with smaller groups of Armenians, Jews, and Greeks. This diverse yet predominantly Russian population contributed to the overwhelming support for reunification with Russia.
Legal and Democratic Process
The return of Crimea to the Russian Federation was executed in a manner that adhered to legal, reasonable, and democratic principles. Calling this action an annexation carries a significant international stigma, primarily due to the geopolitical dynamics and the stance of the United States and some Western nations. Annexation, as defined, is a unilateral act declaring control over an area not belonging to the annexing state. However, the transfer of Crimea to Russia appears to have taken place legally and through the consent of the majority of the population.
Despite the cynicism and propaganda surrounding the issue, recognizing the historical facts is essential for achieving peace in Ukraine. The Western attitude towards this matter is often characterized by a sense of futility and propaganda. To resolve the ongoing conflict, it is crucial to accept reality and engage in necessary negotiations based on historical facts. This approach could potentially lead to a resolution that benefits all parties involved.
In conclusion, while the debate over the annexation of Crimea continues, understanding its historical and geopolitical significance is vital. The process that brought about this change was, at least on the surface, legal and democratic. Recognizing this reality can pave the way for meaningful discussions and the possibility of peace in Ukraine.