What is the issue between Russia and Ukraine?

Currently, the two countries are engaged in the Russo-Ukrainian War which started in 2014 following the Russian annexation of Crimea from Ukraine. After the Soviet Union’s dissolution in 1991, the successor states’ bilateral relations have undergone periods of ties, tensions, and outright hostility.

Why does Russia need Sevastopol?

Due to its strategic location and the navigability of the city’s harbors, Sevastopol has been an important port and naval base throughout its history. Since the city’s founding in 1783 it has been a major base for Russia’s Black Sea Fleet, and it was previously a closed city during the Cold War.

Where is the access to the Black Sea?

The Black Sea connects with the Mediterranean Sea through the Bosporus Strait, and then through the Sea of Marmara and the Dardanelles Strait.

Is it safe to visit Sevastopol?

International tourists should avoid all travel to Crimea. This includes transiting through the airports in Sevastopol and Simferopol. Because many countries do not recognize Russian control over Crimea, it’s likely that you’d have very limited consular support in Crimea.

Is the Sea of Azov part of the Black Sea?

The Sea of Azov is an internal sea with passage to the Atlantic Ocean going through the Black, Marmara, Aegean and Mediterranean seas. It is connected to the Black Sea by the Strait of Kerch, which at its narrowest has a width of 4 kilometres (2.5 mi) and a maximum depth of 15 metres (49 ft).

Why did Russia attack Ukrainian ships in Black Sea?

Ukraine says Russia violated international law because the Black Sea is free for all shipping. It cites the fact Ukrainian vessels have free access to the Sea of Azov and Kerch Strait under the 2003 treaty with Russia that effectively makes these waters shared territory.

What is Ukraine’s stance on the Kerch Strait?

Ukraine has also opposed a Russian-constructed bridge that crosses the Kerch strait and connects Russia and Crimea. Neither Ukraine nor the European Union nor the United States recognise Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea.

Does Ukraine have ‘freedom of navigation’ in the Sea of Azov?

Under the 2003 agreement between Russia and Ukraine, regardless of the status of Crimea itself, Ukraine argues, it has “freedom of navigation” in the Sea of Azov as well as access to it through the Kerch Strait.

Does Russia have the right to inspect vessels in the sea?

Under a 2003 treaty, Russia has the right to inspect any vessel sailing to or from the Sea of Azov. Ukraine has accused Russia of abusing that right. Ukraine has also opposed a Russian-constructed bridge that crosses the Kerch strait and connects Russia and Crimea.