Military Expert: Crimea Can Only Be Reclaimed Through Force.

The Situation in Crimea

According to UATV: Military analyst Denys Popovych stated on the FREEDOM TV channel on February 26 that Ukraine can only regain control of Crimea through military force. This declaration underscores the ongoing 12-year occupation of the peninsula by Russia, which began with its seizure in 2014, marking the initial phase of the Russo-Ukrainian war. The annexation of Crimea is widely condemned internationally and is not recognized by the United Nations.

Popovych emphasized that Russia's war against Ukraine effectively began with the capture of Crimea. He stressed that

"the liberation of Crimea is only possible by military means"

The Invasion and Its Consequences

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, launched four years ago, has further complicated the situation surrounding Crimea. The events of this period have intensified the conflict and drawn greater global attention to the occupation of Ukrainian territories. Ukrainian Navy spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk has also noted that the situation in Crimea remains critical, and avenues for the peninsula's return must be actively pursued.

Therefore, according to the military observer, restoring Crimea to Ukrainian control can only be achieved through armed action, considering the long history of occupation and ongoing armed conflict. Popovych's position highlights the complexity of the Crimea issue, which is a central element of the wider Russo-Ukrainian war.

The assessment that Crimea's return is only feasible militarily points to a perceived absence of effective diplomatic solutions, casting doubt on the prospects for a peaceful resolution. Observers note that the international community must respond more robustly to Russian aggression and support Ukraine's efforts to restore its territorial integrity.