Three years ago on this day, Russia violated the fundamental principle of maritime law by detaining Ukrainian naval vessels and servicemen that were peacefully crossing from the Black Sea to the Sea of Azov.
This was the first time that Russian forces openly attacked Ukraine under Russia’s flag – it served as a clear confirmation of Russian aggression to the whole world.
After nine and a half months of imprisonment in the appalling conditions of the Lefortovo prison, 24 Ukrainian sailors were released. The ships were also returned to Ukraine. Ukraine keeps fighting to bring Russia to responsibility: it accuses the aggressor of violating the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and demands compensation in The Hague.
We invite you to look back at the events related to Russia’s act of aggression in the Kerch Strait, including the recent developments, in our infographic.
