Day of Resistance to the Occupation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol

On 26 February, Ukraine honors the courage and civic stance of those who, in 2014, took to the streets in front of the Crimean parliament in Simferopol to declare: “Crimea is Ukraine.” This day has become a symbol of resilience, dignity, and faith in a state stronger than temporary occupation.

Crimea is a space of centuries-old history, a crossroads of cultures and traditions, the homeland of the Crimean Tatar people, and an integral part of Ukraine’s political and cultural landscape. Its fate is inseparable from the fate of Ukraine.

At V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, we are convinced that justice cannot be restored without knowledge, dialogue, and the preservation of historical memory. That is why we will continue to develop research in history, law, and international relations, document eyewitness accounts, and create a space for open discussion about Crimea as an inseparable part of Ukraine.

Today, we recall the events of 2014 as the starting point of a new stage in the struggle for Ukraine’s territorial integrity. We remember those who first stood against the occupation. We support those who continue the fight. We believe in the restoration of justice and the return of Ukrainian Crimea.