INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE
APPLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION FOR THE SUPPRESSION
OF THE FINANCING OF TERRORISM AND OF THE INTERNATIONAL
CONVENTION ON THE ELIMINATION OF ALL FORMS OF RACIAL
DISCRIMINATION
(Ukraine v. Russian Federation)
REJOINDER
Submitted by the Russian Federation
Volume IV
(Annexes 10 - 15)
10 March 2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS
VOLUME IV
Annexes 10-15
Annex 10 Second Witness Statement of , 22
February 2023.
Annex 11 Witness Statement of , 22 February 2023.
Annex 12 Witness Statement of , 22 February
2023.
Annex 13 Second Witness Statement of Aider Serverovich Ablyatipov, 22
February 2023.
Annex 14 Witness Statement of , 2 March 2023.
Annex 15 Second Witness Statement of , 27 February
2023.
Annex 10
Second Witness Statement of , 22 February 2023
(translation)
Annex 10
INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE
APPLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION
FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF THE FINANCING OF TERRORISM AND
INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON THE ELIMINATION OF
ALL FORMS OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION
(UKRAINE V. RUSSIAN FEDERATION)
SECOND WITNESS STATEMENT
OF
22 FEBRUARY 2023
Annex 10
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1. I, , would like to report the following:
2. I have previously given witness statement in the proceedings initiated by Ukraine before
the UN International Court of Justice. In my previous witness statement, I covered, among
others, the following topics:
(a) Today, pupils in Crimean schools have the opportunity to study the Ukrainian
language based on parental applications; the decrease in demand for instruction in
the Ukrainian language is due to the fact that Russian has always been the main
language of communication in Crimea, both before and after 2014, and after
Crimea's reunification with the Russian Federation, studying the Ukrainian
language ceased to be compulsory;
(b) after the reunification of Crimea with the Russian Federation, there have been no
signs of any infringement of Ukrainian culture; since 2014, multiple events to
promote Ukrainian culture, the publication of books in the Ukrainian language and
activities of museums dedicated to Ukrainian culture have continued;
(c) The Regional Public Organisation (RPO) "Ukrainian Community of Crimea"
contributes to the promotion of Ukrainian culture and is assisted therein by the
authorities of the Republic of Crimea;
(d) The Ukrainian-language coverage of socially significant events in the Republic of
Crimea is provided by the news agency Krym Segodnya (Krym Siogodni) and by
the Pereyaslavska Rada 2.0 Internet portal;
(e) The RPO "Ukrainian Community of Crimea" has been actively involved in
representing minorities in international relations.
3. I have made myself familiar with the Reply of Ukraine to the Counter-Memorial of the
Russian Federation (hereinafter the “Reply”). I find that Ukraine has not provided any
evidence to refute my previous witness statement. Instead, Ukraine ungroundedly alleges
that there is a "systematic effort to demonize Ukrainian culture and language... and
degrade institutions that try to preserve it", citing only three episodes:
(a) the temporary closure of the Lesya Ukrainka Museum for renovation,
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(b) the closure of the “Svitanok” club, and
(c) the alleged “harassment” of the Ukrainian Cultural Centre.
4. In my opinion, the sources of information on which Ukraine bases its Reply deliberately
distort or exaggerate these three episodes - there is no and has never been any "systematic
effort" to destroy Ukrainian culture in Crimea. Below I describe the situations of each of
the three episodes, and then give examples of numerous events dedicated to Ukrainian
culture that took place in Crimea in August-December 2021 and in 2022, and also provide
my comments on the situation with school instruction in the Ukrainian language.
A. LESYA UKRAINKA MUSEUM
5. As regards the Lesya Ukrainka Museum, at the time of the reunification of Crimea with
the Russian Federation, the building of the museum was already in a deplorable condition
and in need of an immediate repair, since Ukrainian authorities had never allocated any
funds for maintenance or capital repair of its premises. The cost estimate for the overhaul
of the building where the museum was located was agreed upon only after 2014, i.e. after
the reunification of Crimea with Russia. Unfortunately, it was not possible to get the
approval for the performance of works under that cost estimate within the set deadline,
so the restoration of the museum was delayed. As far as I know, it was a result of
bureaucratic red tape that had nothing to do with any infringement of Ukrainian culture.
I understand that the Lesya Ukrainka Museum in the village of Kolodyazhne in Volyn
Region, Ukraine, which the Ukrainian authorities have long neglected and failed to
finance, is facing similar problems.1 Unfortunately, memorial museums all over the world
sometimes face similar problems.2
6. The restoration of the Lesya Ukrainka museum does not prevent holding events
associated with the great poetess. For example, on 25 February 2021 the 150th
1 Mayak, Lesya Ukrainka’s Memorial House in Volhynia Is in Decay. Renovation Will Cost UAH 8 mln (29 July
2020), available at: https://mayak.org.ua/news/na-volyni-razrushaetsja-muzej-usadba-lesi-ukrainki-na-egoremont-
nuzhno-8-millionov/ (Exhibit A).
2 See: The Art Newspaper Russia, National Museum of Brazil Rises from Ashes, Albeit with Difficulty (26 October
2022), available at: https://www.theartnewspaper.ru/posts/20221026-dmit/ (Exhibit B); The Art Newspaper
Russia, Opening of Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture in Question (23 June 2020), available at:
https://www.theartnewspaper.ru/posts/8179/ (Exhibit C); Bloknot Moldova, Soroca Fortress’ Museum Will Be
Restored, available at: https://bloknot-moldova ru/news/muzey-sorokskoy-kreposti-budut-restavrirovat-1343075
(Exhibit D).
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anniversary of Lesya Ukrainka’s birth was celebrated in Yalta, which included a
temporary exhibition opening and a round table dedicated to her creative work.3
B. THE SVITANOK CLUB
7. As far as I understand, in relation to the theater club “Svitanok” Ukraine relies on only
one media article.
8. Neither members of the group nor their parents, the director of the collective or her
husband mentioned in the above article have contacted the Regional Public Organisation
“Ukrainian Community of Crimea” about the closure of the Svitanok club. The RPO
“Ukrainian Community of Crimea” closely monitors rare appeals of Crimean citizens
with the authorities of the Republic concerning the suppression of the Ukrainian language
and Ukrainian culture. However, according to the information I have, there have been no
appeals of citizens with the state authorities regarding this club.
9. There are quite a few creative groups for children in Crimea performing Ukrainian
national dances, staging performances and singing songs in the Ukrainian language. The
“Radonitsa” ensemble, which is an award winner of international competitions in Russia,
Ukraine, France and the Netherlands, is one of them.4 As far as I know, the “Radonitsa”
folklore ensemble under the leadership of Alena Poletneva has been operating since 1999,
with a satellite group, the “Dusha Radonets” folklore ensemble, created in 2015. 5 And I
think it speaks for itself that, in spite of the direct mission of those groups being the
promotion of Ukrainian folklore culture, neither the leader of those groups nor their
members have ever been subjected to any persecution.
C. UKRAINIAN CULTURAL CENTRE
10. Regarding the Ukrainian Cultural Centre (UCC), I already noted in my previous witness
statement that this organisation was not officially registered and had not conducted any
3 Government of the Republic of Crimea, Yalta Celebrates Lesya Ukrainka’s 150th Birthdate Anniversary (25
February 2021), available at: https://yalta rk.gov.ru/ru/article/show/17253yalta rk.gov.ru/ru/article/show/17253
(Exhibit E).
4 Naslednikitraditsy, Tradition Keepers – Radonitsa Folk Ensemble, available at:
https://2020 naslednikitraditsy.ru/exponents/84naslednikitraditsy.ru/exponents/84 (Exhibit F).
5 VKontakte page, Dusha-Radonets Folk Ensemble (25 January 2023), available at:
https://m.vk.com/club120986049 (Exhibit G). House of People’s Friendship, Congratulations on Victories! (21
March 2021), available at: https://ddncrimea ru/pozdravlyaem-s-pobedami/ (Exhibit H).
Annex 10
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activities to promote Ukrainian culture. The brochure “Krymskiy Teren”, several issues
of which were distributed by UCC, had no relation to Ukrainian culture and was rather a
political agitation leaflet. At the same time provocations staged by UCC activists during
various non-political events related to Ukrainian culture are well known, for example,
when they shouted political slogans during the celebration of Taras Shevchenko’s birth
anniversary. 6 I attribute these provocations to the fact that the UCC leaders were
(apparently unsuccessfully) seeking support from the Ukrainian government.7 As already
mentioned, today nothing prevents UCC activists in Crimea from laying flowers, visiting
monuments, and participating in events dedicated to Ukrainian cultural figures. 8 In this
regard I recall that recently Council of national security and defence of Ukraine has
threatened to close the Russian Center of science and culture in Kiev after the latter
organized teleconference “Kiev-Moscow” on Taras Schevchenko’s birthday.9
D. EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES DEDICATED TO UKRAINIAN CULTURE AND LANGUAGE IN 2021-
2022
11. On 14 October 2022, the President of the Russian Federation clearly stated that in Russia,
and especially in Crimea (where Ukrainian is the official language), Ukrainian culture is
loved and appreciated; the very idea of restricting it is unacceptable.10
12. In my view, the most visible refutation of Ukraine's argument that the Russian authorities
are infringing on the promotion of the Ukrainian language and culture is the performance
of the Ukrainian singer Taisiya Povaliy and the Cossack Choir during the gala concert
dedicated to the Russian holiday – the National Unity Day, 4 November 2022.11 The
singers performed the legendary song "Nese Galya Vodu" in Ukrainian, demonstrating
the integration of the Ukrainian language into the Russian reality. On 31 December 2022,
Taisiya Povaliy performed the Ukrainian song "Chervona Ruta" during the New Year's
6 See my previous witness statement, Annex 16 to the Counter-Memorial, ¶15.
7 MK, Ukrainian Cultural Centre in Crimea Is Likely to Close (4 February 2017), available at:
https://crimea mk.ru/articles/2017/02/04/ukrainskiy-kulturnyy-centr-v-krymu-mozhet-zakrytsya html (Exhibit I).
8 See my previous witness statement, Annex 16 to the Counter-Memorial, ¶15.
9 Ukraina.Ru, Spoiled Holiday: Who Needs a Scandal around Taras Shevchenko in Ukraine (30 March 2021),
available at: https://ukraina ru/20210330/1030981017.html (Exhibit J).
10 Interfax, Putin Criticises Authorities Who Imposed Fines for Listening to Ukrainian Music in Moscow (14
October 2022), available at: https://www.interfax.ru/russia/867925www.interfax.ru/russia/867925 (Exhibit K).
11 Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Music Unites: Ukrainian Song Performed at Unity Day Concert (7 November 2022),
available at: http://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/article/show/17353.com/ru/article/show/17353 (Exhibit L).
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Eve Goluboy Ogonek show, which was broadcast on the main Russian TV channel on
New Year's Eve.12
13. In June 2022, the All-Russian Festival-Contest "The Great Silk Road" was held in Sudak,
where vocal and dance groups from all over Crimea took part. One of the winners of the
festival was the folk-dance group "Kabluchok" from the city of Alushta, which performed
the Ukrainian folk dance "Rakivchanka".13
14. Contrary to Ukraine's assertions, events dedicated to the Ukrainian language and culture
have continued to take place in Crimea after its reunification with the Russian Federation
up to the present day. As part of this witness statement14, I will highlight some of the
events dedicated to the Ukrainian language and culture held in the period from August to
December 2021 and in 2022:
(a) On 11 November 2021, the RPO "Ukrainian Community of Crimea" organised the
first Ukrainian Borsch festival in Crimea under the name of "Borsch ob'edynuye"
(Borsch Unites), with colourful competitions and quizzes and performances of folk
art groups.15
(b) On 18 February 2022, at the House of the Entrepreneur central office, the RPO
"Ukrainian Community of Crimea" held a presentation of books in the Ukrainian
language that were published with the support of the State Committee on Inter-
Ethnic Relations of the Republic of Crimea by the State Autonomous Institution of
the Republic of Crimea "Ismail Gasprinsky Media Centre".16 Among the presented
publications was the collection of fairy tales "Mamini Kazki " ("Mama's Fairy
12 Smotrim, New Year’s Show 2023, “Chervona Ruta” by Taisiya Povally (31 December 2022), available at:
https://smotrim ru/video/2540239 (Exhibit M).
13 Sudak me, Winners of “The Great Silk Road” Festival Contest Gave Gala Concert in Sudak (24 June 2022),
available at: https://sudak me/news/3642-v-sudake-sostojalsja-gala-koncert-pobeditelei-festivalja-konkursavelikii-
shyolkovyi-put.html (Exhibit N).
14 It is my understanding that much information on the events held in Crimea concerning Ukrainian culture was
submitted with the Counter-Memorial, see Annex 498 to the Counter-Memorial.
15 Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Crimean Ukrainians Hold First Local Borsch Festival “Borsch Units” (12
November 2021), available at: https://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/article/show/13247 (Exhibit O).
16 Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Books in Ukrainian Presented in Crimea (18 February 2022), available at:
http://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/article/show/14162 (Exhibit P); The Civic Chamber of the Republic of Crimea,
Books in Ukrainian Presented in Crimea (18 February 2022), available at: https://opcrimea ru/novosti/v-krymusostoyalas-
prezentaciya-knig-na-ukrainskom-yazyke html (Exhibit Q).
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Tales" by Arina Em, 400 copies)17, a collection of Lesya Ukrainka’s selected works
"Kvitka na Dolonivichnosti" in the Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar languages
(compiled by Valery Basyrov, translated by Yunus Kandymov, 300 copies)18. The
presentation was attended by the authors and compilers of the published books.
(c) On 1 April 2022, the RPO "Ukrainian Community of Crimea" held an open lesson
in Simferopol Economic Lyceum dedicated to the 213th birth anniversary of
Nikolai Gogol.19 The lesson was held partly in Ukrainian, partly in Russian.
(d) On 1 March 2022, to increase students' interest in reading and self-improvement,
Simferopol Secondary School 38 opened a library named after V.A.
Sukhomlinskiy, an outstanding educator and a Ukrainian by nationality.20
(e) On 7 May 2022, a commemorative event was held at the Museum of the History of
Simferopol dedicated to the hero of the Soviet Union Vasily Akimovich Gorishniy,
a Ukrainian by birth.21
(f) Traditional events have continued to be held. On 21 February 2022, the Regional
Public Organisation "Ukrainian Community of Crimea" together with the Crimean
Republican Universal Scientific Library named after I.Y. Franko held an event
associated with the International Mother Language Day. 22 The event involved
discussions of the problems of the Ukrainian language, while the RPO "Ukrainian
Community of Crimea" member writer Arina Em (Marina Heydiunas) recited
poems in Ukrainian.
17 A. Em, MOM'S FAIRY TALES: A COLLECTION OF FAIRY TALES (the Ismail Gasprinsky Media Centre state-funded
autonomous institution of the Republic of Crimea, 2021) (Exhibit R).
18 L. Ukrainka, A FLOWER IN THE PALM OF ETERNITY. SELECTED WORKS (the Ismail Gasprinsky Media Centre
state-funded autonomous institution of the Republic of Crimea, 2021) (Exhibit S).
19 Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, RPO Ukrainian Community of Crimea held a lesson dedicated to Nikolai Gogol (1
April 2022), available here: http://http://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/article/show/14553 (Exhibit T).
20 Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Vasily Sukhomlinsky library opened in Simferopol (4 March 2022), available at:
http://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/article/show/14293 (Exhibit U).
21 Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, In Simferopol honored the memory of the Hero of the Great Patriotic War Vasily
Gorishniy (7 May 2022), available at: https://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/article/show/14864 (Exhibit V).
22 Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Simferopol celebrated International Mother Language Day (21 February 2022),
available at: http://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/article/show/14177 (Exhibit W).
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(g) Events dedicated to prominent Ukrainian cultural figures, in particular Vera Roik,
continue to be held in the Republic of Crimea.
i) On 21 June 2022, the Literature and Arts Museum of the city of Stariy Krym
hosted the opening of the exhibition of Ukrainian embroidery "Vera Roik and
Her Students", supported by the All-Ukrainian Information and Cultural Centre,
which featured embroidery, panels, napkins, mats, and a collection of thimbles
by the famous craftswoman, Honored Master of Folk Art of Ukraine, Honored
Artist of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, member of the National Union of
Artists of Ukraine, Hero of Ukraine Vera Roik.23
ii) On 26 December 2022, the Crimean Ethnographic Museum hosted the "Pattern
on Canvas" event dedicated to the 10th anniversary of the Vera Roik Museum of
Ukrainian embroidery. The event was organised jointly with the RPO “Ukrainian
Community of Crimea”.24
iii) On 25 November 2022, results were announced of the 5th Vera Roik Republican
Biennale of East Slavic folk embroidery "Pattern on the Canvas" held in the
Crimean Ethnographic Museum. 25 The biennale is traditionally held by the
Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Crimea together with the State budget
institution of the Republic of the Crimea "Crimean Ethnographic Museum" for
the purpose of preserving, developing and promoting Russian, Ukrainian and
Belarusian folk embroidery, as well as folk art in general.
23 Cross Stitching Lovers’ Club, Ukrainian Embroidery Exhibition Opens in Stary Krym (18 October 2022),
available at: http://www.cross-stitch-club.ru/nitka/2366-v-starom-krymu-zarabotaet-vystavka-ukrainskoyvyshivki.
html (Exhibit X).
24 Crimean News Feed, Vera Roik Museum of Ukrainian Embroidery Celebrated Its 10th Anniversary (26
December 2022), available at: https://crimea-news.com/culture/2022/12/26/1005338.html (Exhibit Y).
25 Dzhankoy in the Lens, "Pattern on the Canvas" by Dzhankoy residents / Biennale-2022 (25 November 2022),
available at: https://inlens24 ru/uzor-na-polotne-ot-dzhankoytsev-biennale-krym.html (Exhibit Z).
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(h) On 28 August 2021, the traditional Obzhynki 2021 festival was held, which
included folk amusements, while visitors sang Ukrainian songs and performed folk
dances26 . On 28 August 2022, Crimean residents again celebrated this holiday.27
(i) On 30 January, a concert dedicated to the memory of an outstanding Ukrainian,
hero of the Soviet Union Vasily Gorishny was held in Simferopol.28
15. I also think it necessary to draw attention to the fact that print publications in the
Ukrainian language continue to be published in the territory of Crimea: Krym Sjogodni
magazine 29 and the Krymskiy Visnyk newspaper 30 are published quarterly. The
Ukrainian-language Pereyaslavska Rada 2.0 Internet resource also continues its work
without being harassed or suppressed in any way. 31
16. Thus, Ukraine's claims that there is infringement and suppression of Ukrainian culture
and the Ukrainian language in the territory of the Republic of Crimea do not correspond
to reality. At the same time, Ukraine ignores the fact that various events dedicated to the
Ukrainian language and culture are held in Crimea, and children have the opportunity to
be instructed in the Ukrainian language.
E. SITUATION WITH SCHOOL INSTRUCTION IN THE UKRAINIAN LANGUAGE
17. As part of my first witness statement, I spoke about the objective reasons for the decline
in demand for Ukrainian language studies in educational institutions in Crimea. I am still
fully committed to the position I outlined then.
26 The Civic Chamber of the Republic of Crimea, Obzhinki-2021 Ukrainian Culture Festival Held in Crimea (30
June 2022), available at: https://opcrimea.ru/novosti/v-krymu-proshel-festival-ukrainskoj-kultury-obzhinki-
2021 html (Exhibit AA).
27 MirInfo, Obzhinki 2022. Crimea celebrated the harvest festival (28 August 2022), available at: https://mirinfo.
com/community/obzhinki-2022-v-krymu-otmetili-prazdnik-urozhaja (Exhibit AB).
28 The Civic Chamber of the Republic of Crimea, A concert in memory of V.A. Gorishny, Hero of the Soviet Union,
was held in Simferopol (31 January 2023), available at: https://opcrimea ru/novosti/v-simferopole-proshyolkoncert-
v-pamyat-o-geroe-sssr-v.a.-gorishnem html (Exhibit AC)
29 See Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Magazines (25 January 2023), available at:
https://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/magazine-newspaper/magazine/view-all (Exhibit AD).
30 See Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Newspapers (25 January 2023), available at:
https://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/magazine-newspaper/newspaper/view-all (Exhibit AE).
31 See Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Home Page (25 January 2023), available at: https://pereyaslavskayarada.com/
(Exhibit AF).
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18. Despite the fact that all the requisites for the study of the Ukrainian language remain in
place in Crimea, the interest in learning it has been in growing decline. As far as I know,
even School 20 of the city of Feodosiya, which pays a lot of attention to the study of
Ukrainian, has Ukrainian classes that are filled below capacity. My experience with
representatives of the Ukrainian community in Crimea shows that ordinary Crimeans are
not interested in being instructed in Ukrainian, because they do not associate the
development and building of their careers or their children's careers with the Ukrainian
language. Very few families continue to use Ukrainian in everyday communication, but
even in those families parents do not see the point in their children being taught in
Ukrainian. Crimeans perceive Russian educational institutions as more prestigious in
terms of education and also see better prospects of getting a well-paid job in Russia rather
than in Ukraine. Moreover, the Crimean population is also wary of moving to Ukraine
for education and employment due to public statements by Ukrainian politicians who
have repeatedly threatened Crimeans in case they move to Ukraine.
19. The current policy of the Ukrainian authorities (including legislative) towards all which
is Russian only reinforces these fears.
20. In this regard, it is puzzling, for example, Ukraine's reference to an article in the
propaganda newspaper of a local political party demanding "to return the Ukrainian
gymnasium" and "to open Ukrainian schools" in every "district" of Crimea.32 In my
opinion, the demands of the authors of the article are absolutely divorced from reality.
Although the authors of the article themselves admit that the demand for education in the
Ukrainian language in Crimea has fallen, they nevertheless insist on opening a school in
every "district" - that is, at least in each of the 25 administrative-territorial entities of the
peninsula.33 At the same time, even before the reunification of Crimea with Russia, there
were only 7 schools in Crimea with teaching in the Ukrainian language. Thus, the authors
call for the creation of 4 times more Ukrainian schools than there were in Crimea before
2014, while recognizing that the demand for the Ukrainian language has fallen. In
addition, the authors of the appeal demand "to return the Ukrainian gymnasium in
Simferopol", although the Simferopol Academic Gymnasium still teaches some children
32 Reply, ¶701.
33 Government of the Republic of Crimea, Administrative Division (updated on 23 April 2018), available at:
https://rk.gov ru/ru/structure/936 (Exhibit AG).
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in Ukrainian. At the same time, in the Simferopol gymnasium itself, according to my
information, the demand for teaching in Ukrainian is not growing, but only falling. Thus,
the appeal referred to by Ukraine, in my opinion, is simply an attempt by one of the
political parties to exploit the "Ukrainian" agenda in order to gain the trust of Ukrainians
living in Crimea. I am also not sure that ordinary Crimeans would refer to the UN Charter
in support of their statement, as indicated in the newspaper.
21. I hereby confirm that, to the best of my knowledge and beliefs, the information set out in
this witness statement is true.
Witness
[SIGNATURE]
Simferopol, 22 February 2023
Annex 10
Annex 10
LIST OF EXHIBITS
Number: Name of exhibit:
Exhibit A Mayak, Lesya Ukrainka’s Memorial House in Volhynia Is in Decay.
Renovation Will Cost UAH 8 mln (29 July 2020).
Exhibit B The Art Newspaper Russia, National Museum of Brazil Rises from Ashes,
Albeit with Difficulty (26 October 2022).
Exhibit C The Art Newspaper Russia, Opening of Istanbul Museum of Painting and
Sculpture in Question (23 June 2020).
Exhibit D Bloknot Moldova, Soroca Fortress’ Museum Will Be Restored (10 May
2021).
Exhibit E Government of the Republic of Crimea, Yalta Celebrates Lesya Ukrainka’s
150th Birthdate Anniversary (25 February 2021).
Exhibit F Naslednikitraditsy, Tradition Keepers – Radonitsa Folk Ensemble.
Exhibit G VKontakte page, Dusha-Radonets Folk Ensemble (25 January 2023).
Exhibit H House of People’s Friendship, Congratulations on Victories! (21 March
2021).
Exhibit I MK, Ukrainian Cultural Centre in Crimea Is Likely to Close (4 February
2017).
Exhibit J Ukraina.Ru, Spoiled Holiday: Who Needs a Scandal around Taras
Shevchenko in Ukraine (30 March 2021, updated on 13 July 2022).
Exhibit K Interfax, Putin Criticises Authorities Who Imposed Fines for Listening to
Ukrainian Music in Moscow (14 October 2022).
Exhibit L Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Music Unites: Ukrainian Song Performed at
Unity Day Concert (7 November 2022).
Exhibit M Smotrim, New Year’s Show 2023, “Chervona Ruta” by Taisiya Povally (31
December 2022).
Exhibit N Sudak.me, Winners of “The Great Silk Road” Festival Contest Gave Gala
Concert in Sudak (24 June 2022).
Annex 10
Exhibit O Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Crimean Ukrainians Hold First Local Borsch
Festival “Borsch Units” (12 November 2021).
Exhibit P Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Books in Ukrainian Presented in Crimea (18
February 2022).
Exhibit Q The Civic Chamber of the Republic of Crimea, Books in Ukrainian
Presented in Crimea (18 February 2022).
Exhibit R A. Em, MOM'S FAIRY TALES: A COLLECTION OF FAIRY TALES (the Ismail
Gasprinsky Media Centre state-funded autonomous institution of the
Republic of Crimea, 2021).
Exhibit S L. Ukrainka, A FLOWER IN THE PALM OF ETERNITY. SELECTED WORKS (the
Ismail Gasprinsky Media Centre state-funded autonomous institution of the
Republic of Crimea, 2021).
Exhibit T Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, RPO Ukrainian Community of Crimea held a
lesson dedicated to Nikolai Gogol (1 April 2022).
Exhibit U Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Vasily Sukhomlinsky library opened in
Simferopol (4 March 2022).
Exhibit V Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, In Simferopol honored the memory of the Hero
of the Great Patriotic War Vasily Gorishniy (7 May 2022).
Exhibit W Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Simferopol celebrated International Mother
Language Day (21 February 2022).
Exhibit X Cross Stitching Lovers’ Club, Ukrainian Embroidery Exhibition Opens in
Stary Krym (18 October 2022).
Exhibit Y Crimean News Feed, Vera Roik Museum of Ukrainian Embroidery
Celebrated Its 10th Anniversary (26 December 2022).
Exhibit Z Dzhankoy in the Lens, “Pattern on the Canvas” by Dzhankoy residents /
Biennale-2022 (25 November 2022).
Exhibit AA The Civic Chamber of the Republic of Crimea, Obzhinki-2021 Ukrainian
Culture Festival Held in Crimea (30 June 2022).
Exhibit AB MirInfo, Obzhinki 2022. Crimea celebrated the harvest festival (28 August
2022).
Exhibit AC The Civic Chamber of the Republic of Crimea, A concert in memory of V.A.
Gorishny, Hero of the Soviet Union, was held in Simferopol (31 January
2023).
Annex 10
Exhibit AD Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Magazines (25 January 2023).
Exhibit AE Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Newspapers (25 January 2023).
Exhibit AF Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Home Page (25 January 2023).
Exhibit AG Government of the Republic of Crimea, Administrative Division (updated
on 23 April 2018).
Exhibit A
Mayak, Lesya Ukrainka’s Memorial House in Volhynia Is in Decay. Renovation Will Cost
UAH 8 mln (29 July 2020)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit A
Translation
Mayak, Lesya Ukrainka’s Memorial House in Volhynia Is in Decay. Renovation Will Cost
UAH 8 mln (29 July 2020), available at: https://mayak.org.ua/news/na-volynirazrushaetsja-
muzej-usadba-lesi-ukrainki-na-ego-remont-nuzhno-8-millionov/.
mayak.org.ua
Lesya Ukrainka’s Memorial House in Volhynia Is in Decay. Renovation
Will Cost UAH 8 mln
The house is located in the village of Kolodiazhne, Volhynia Region, Ukraine. It was built
120 years ago by Petr Kosach, Lesya Ukrainka’s father. The building now is a memorial
museum of the poetess.
The house was last restored in 1949, when the building was renovated and a museum was
opened there, which became a monument of national importance, says Olga Boyko, the
museum’s director. But the house is now literally crumbling: its plaster is damaged, exposing
the wooden walls behind it.
Annex 10 Exhibit A
The house of Lesya Ukrainka’s father, which stands nearby, is in an equally deplorable
condition. The museum workers made cosmetic repairs of the building on their own.
The museum has its renovation estimate and design. The works will cost UAH 8 mln. But
those costs have not been budgeted for this year, and it is still unclear how the situation will
be in the next year. The village council is willing to allocate 10% of the required amount but
will not be able to pay the full renovation costs.
Annex 10 Exhibit A
The “Pink Room” was Lesya Ukrainka’s bedroom. Photo: Vlad Bespalov.
The “Blue Room” was a living room. Photo: Vlad Bespalov.
The museum receives about 25,000 visitors annually. Its rooms store a lot of Lesya’s personal
belongings, e.g., her favorite pen, notebooks and copybooks, and archival photos of her
family. Lesya moved to Kolodiazhno in 1882, and the last time was here in 1907.
Annex 10 Exhibit A
Lesya Ukrainka and her family in Kolodiazhno in 1904. Photo: Encyclopedia of Lesya
Ukrainka’s Life and Works.
Lesya Ukrainka is an outstanding Ukrainian poetess. Her extravaganza drama “Forest Song”
is considered one of the best works of the Ukrainian literature. She knew eleven languages
and has translated many classical works into Ukrainian. Her literature is distinguished by a
deep psychologism. She was also one of the country’s first authors who raised erotic themes
in her work; for example, in her novel “Nature”. Some researchers believe Lesya could have a
romantic relationship with Olha Kobylianska, a writer.
For most of her life, Lesya suffered from bone tuberculosis. She died at the age of 41. The
next year will mark the 150th anniversary of her birth date.
We wrote that Lesya Ukrainka’s two-hundred-year-old ash tree fell in Lutsk in late June. The
famous tree grew near Lubart’s Castle. People called him “Lesya’s Ash” because Lesya lived
nearby. According to one legend, she loved to write her lyrics under that tree. The ash was
considered the oldest tree in Lutsk.
Exhibit B
The Art Newspaper Russia, National Museum of Brazil Rises from Ashes, Albeit with Difficulty
(26 October 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit B
Translation
The Art Newspaper Russia, National Museum of Brazil Rises from Ashes, Albeit with
Difficulty (26 October 2022), available at:
https://www.theartnewspaper.ru/posts/20221026-dmit/.
ART NEWS
THE ART NEWSPAPER RUSSIA
MUSEUM
National Museum of Brazil Rises from Ashes, Albeit with Difficulty
The National Museum of Brazil in September 2022.
Photo: Luiz Gomes/Fotoarena via ZUMA Press/TASS
Annex 10 Exhibit B
No. 105
NEWSPAPER ARTICLE
While the first phase of the restoration of the building suffered in the
catastrophic fire of 2018 is actually completed, the director of the Museum
urges the country’s authorities to increase government funding for the
work
BY GABRIELLA ANGELETTI
26 October 2022
Four years after the fire engulfed the Museum’s building in the Quinta da Boa Vista Park in
Rio de Janeiro, the results of the first phase of its reconstruction were presented there. Those
passing by the Museum on the 7th of September, Brazil’s Independence Day, could see the
new facade and the original marble statues. However, due to funding problems and delay in
implementing the work schedule, visitors will be able to walk through all its halls no earlier
than in 2027.
The building remained vulnerable to fire for many years. Inspectors warned of a high risk of
fire as early as 2004, and just a few months before the disaster, the Prosecutor’s Office
received an anonymous complaint from an architect who had noted and photographed
potentially dangerous elements. However, no proper measures had been taken. On the night of
2 September 2018, a faulty air conditioner caught fire, and the flames quickly spread to 122
rooms. In just two hours, the Museum’s building itself and more than 18 mln exhibits were
destroyed.
___________________________________________________________________________
REFERENCE INFORMATION ♦
National Museum of Brazil
The National Museum of Brazil, originally called the Royal Museum, was founded in Rio de
Janeiro by João VI, the ruler of Portugal, in 1818, shortly before the liberation of Brazil from
colonial dependence. Almost until the end of the 19th century, the Museum was located in a
building in the city park of Campo de Santana. Its collection was based on that of the already
existing House of Natural History (mostly samples of local flora and fauna), which was
complemented by several other zoological collections.
Read more...
___________________________________________________________________________
Alexander Kellner, the current Director of the Museum, took up this position just six months
before the fire. “No one would wish that for themselves”, he laments. “I will go down in
history as the director of a museum that burned down”. Despite the delays in the restoration
works, Mr. Kellner is determined to see the matter through to the end. Back in 2018, he
addressed an open letter to the National Congress of Brazil and the then presidential
candidates, urging them to increase the funding for the cultural sphere and more aggressively
support the reconstruction of the Museum. Ahead of the new elections due in October, he
Annex 10 Exhibit B
hopes to see “more goodwill gestures from the government and to hear certain promises about
the funding of culture”. “We're close to zero for now”, he adds.
Photos of the burning National Museum of Brazil flew around the world in 2018.
Photo: Buda Mendes/Getty Images
Construtora Biapó, a Rio de Janeiro-based heritage restoration firm, recently completed the
restoration of one of the Museum’s façades; several marble statues that previously adorned
the Museum’s roof were also restored. Those statues will now be installed in the adjacent
park, and their replicas will be placed on the building to secure the originals. A number of
exhibits, including a collection of minerals, will be placed on the ground floor so that they can
be seen from the street. But the rest of the building will still be closed to the public.
The total cost of the works already completed amounted to approximately BRL 380 mln
(about $75 mln), but the final spending can reach BRL 500 mln ($97 mln). The federal
government allocates approximately BRL 300,000 ($58,000) per annum. “That is certainly
better than nothing. But still these amounts are insignificant compared to what is really
needed to implement the project”, Mr. Kellner says. The Rio de Janeiro municipal authorities
have allocated BRL 55 mln ($11 mln), and about BRL 50 mln ($10 mln) have been donated
by the Brazilian Development Bank; private philanthropists and foreign governments have
also made significant contributions.
Since 2020, the interior works in the building have been supervised by H+F Arquitetos, an
architectural firm based in São Paulo, which is led by Pablo Hereñú and Eduardo Ferroni.
According to Mr. Hereñú, the fire affected the structure so deeply that it exposed even those
parts of it that would not have been visible during the usual renovation. “Some of those layers
have been hidden for more than 100 years”, he says. The architects hope the history of the
building will become more accessible on a visual level after its restoration. “We would like to
enable visitors to study history through the building itself by exposing its hidden
contradictions”, Mr. Hereñú says.
Exhibit C
The Art Newspaper Russia, Opening of Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture in Question
(23 June 2020)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit C
Translation
The Art Newspaper Russia, Opening of Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture in
Question (23 June 2022), available at: https://www.theartnewspaper.ru/posts/8179/.
ART NEWS
THE ART NEWSPAPER RUSSIA
NEWS > MUSEUM
Opening of Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture in Question
The IRHIM Museum, which has been closed for most of its 80-year history, is due to
open in a new $25-mln building this year, despite the resignation of its main curators.
BY AYLA JEAN YACKLEY
23 June 2020
Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture (IRHM).
Photo: EAA STUDIO ISTANBUL
It took almost a decade for the Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture (IRHM) to be
relocated onto the premises of a former customs office having an area of 17,700 square meters
near the Bosphorus. Designed by Turkish architect Emre Arolat, the new $25-mln building
was first tested last autumn when it became the venue for the Istanbul Biennale. The
Annex 10 Exhibit C
Museum’s opening date was then pushed back from the spring to September 2020 to complete
the restoration of the 12,000-piece collection. However, the dismissal of Vasif Kortun, the
project’s chief consultant who was going to rethink the collection including works of national
artists from the mid-1800s to the 1990s based on “contemporary critical ideas” cast doubt on
that plan.
Mr. Kortun, the former founding director of the private art institution SALT, joined IRHM,
which is part of the state-owned Mimar Sinan University of Fine Arts, in May 2019.
However, the lack of funding, an independent board of trustees and qualified museum staff,
including restorers, forced him to leave in December. “The government cannot manage such
an institution. Technically, bureaucratically, financially and ideologically, this is just a wrong
Annex 10 Exhibit C
combination”, he said in an interview with The Art Newspaper. “I realised it was absolutely
impossible to cope with this because I was not allowed to change anything”. Another obstacle
was the fact that the main items of the Museum’s collection were in indefinite storage with
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as well as with the State Museum of Palace Collections in
Istanbul. The 60 paintings provided to them for use include those painted by Abdulmejid II
(1868-1944), the last Caliph of the Ottoman Empire. “The Museum cannot open without
them”, Mr. Kortun said.
IRHM was founded in 1937 in a wing of the palace of the deposed Sultan by decree of
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey. According to Professor Ayşe
Köksal, whose book on the long-suffering Museum is being prepared for publication this year,
the institution was closed during World War II and was never available to the general public
for most of the next eight decades. The Museum was opened the last time in 2008.
Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture (IRHM).
Photo: Istanbul Museum of Painting and Sculpture
Exhibit D
Bloknot Moldova, Soroca Fortress’ Museum Will Be Restored (10 May 2021)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit D
Translation
Bloknot Moldova, Soroca Fortress’ Museum Will Be Restored (10 May 2021), available
at: https://bloknot-moldova.ru/news/muzey-sorokskoy-kreposti-budut-restavrirovat-
1343075.
Bloknot
Culture
10 May 2021 at 09:15 AM
Soroca Fortress’ Museum Will Be Restored
atcsindtur.md
The Soroca Fortress will be restored
The works will cost MDL 15 mln and last for more than 2.5 years.
The Soroca Fortress is in a deplorable condition, with its exhibits hardly fitting into the vault.
“It is necessary to restore the Fortress, increase the number of its exhibition halls and expand
their area. It is impossible to accommodate temporary exhibitions on an area of just 45 square
metres. I would like to create a modern, multifunctional hall”, Nikolai Bulat, the director of
the Soroca Museum of History, told the Publika TV channel.
Annex 10 Exhibit D
According to Mr. Bulat, they plan to build some residential space for those guests intending to
work with the Museum’s materials for several days.
“We want to equip two rooms on the second floor. In addition, there are several buildings
behind the Museum that have been empty for years. We will place 32,000 exhibits there. We
have no space available to store them now”, he said.
“The total budget is MDL 15 mln. MDL 13.5 mln of those funds were allocated by the
National Fund for Regional Development. The Soroca District Council provided MDL 1.5
mln, and the Soroca mayor’s office, MDL 150,000”, said Grigory Bukataru, the head of the
Soroca District Department of Culture and Tourism.
Exhibit E
Government of the Republic of Crimea, Yalta Celebrates Lesya Ukrainka’s 150th Birthdate
Anniversary (25 February 2021)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit E
Translation
Government of the Republic of Crimea, Yalta Celebrates Lesya Ukrainka’s 150th
Birthdate Anniversary (25 February 2021), available at:
https://yalta.rk.gov.ru/ru/article/show/17253.
Government of the Republic of Crimea
Head of the Republic of Crimea
Government of the Russian Federation
Official Resources
YALTA
25 January, Wednesday
ONLINE RECEPTION
Government of the Republic of Crimea > Yalta > News >
Yalta Celebrates Lesya Ukrainka’s 150th Birthdate Anniversary
Today, on the birthday of Larisa Kosach-Kvitka, better known as Lesya Ukrainka, dozens of
Yalta residents came to pay tribute to the talented poetess.
By Yalta Town Administration’s Department of Information Policy
Yalta Celebrates Lesya Ukrainka’s 150th Birthdate Anniversary
Annex 10 Exhibit E
Lesya Ukrainka visited the Crimea many times and lived there for about three years in total. A
number of her works were written in or dedicated to the Crimea. For more than half a century,
Yalta has been keeping the memory of Lesya. There are about one dozen buildings associated
with her name in the town. In 1972, one of the world’s best monuments to the poetess by the
sculptor Galina Kalchenko was erected in front of the house museum where Lesya lived.
Larisa Kovalchuk, the Director of the Crimean Literary and Art Memorial Museum Reserve,
read a welcoming address from Arina Novoselskaya, the Minister of Culture of the Republic
of Crimea.
“On this memorable day, I would like to sincerely congratulate the residents and guests of the
Republic of Crimea on the 150th anniversary of the birthdate of Lesya Ukrainka – an
outstanding poetess, playwright, translator and public figure whose life and work left a
significant, bright trace in the cultural space of the Crimea and the whole world. The staff of
the Yalta Historical and Literary Museum, with the support from the Yalta Town
Administration, are working hard to maintain the historical memory and to preserve and
popularise Lesya Ukrainka’s cultural heritage. From the bottom of my heart, I thank the
museum staff and the Yalta Town Administration for the work they have done. Your
experience, knowledge and talent make a significant contribution to the preservation and
popularisation of the cultural heritage of the Crimean peoples”, the address says.
In turn, Konstantin Shimanovsky, the Head of the Yalta Municipality and Chair of the Yalta
Town Council, reminded the audience that Lesya Ukrainka’s life and work are inextricably
linked with Yalta and are permeated with her special love for nature. The poetess wrote her
most famous work, “Forest Song”, in just ten days. Lesya Ukrainka was inspired to create her
drama extravaganza by memories of her native village in Volhynia, which is rich of forests,
and the images of her mythical characters were evoked by fairy tales and folk legends.
“The life and creative path of the writer and poetess were inextricably linked with the Crimea.
She first came here in 1890 to treat her tuberculosis. She repeatedly came to Yalta for
treatment, so we have many historical places associated with her name. The most famous of
them is the museum that bears her name. Yalta is an amazing town that attracted famous
creative figures and inspired them to create immortal works in different years”, emphasized
Mr. Shimanovsky, adding that our main task is to carefully preserve and multiply the cultural
and historical heritage our predecessors left for us.
Svetlana Novodatskaya, Deputy Head of the Yalta Town Administration, noted on behalf of
her boss, Yanina Pavlenko, that Lesya Ukrainka’s name has become a real pearl in the crown
of the names of those cultural figures who have depicted Yalta in their works.
“Our town has left a significant mark on her literary heritage, and we, in turn, cherish her
memory. The famous poetess has left the fire of her soul in her legacy – her poetic lines,
which warm our hearts forever”, Mrs Novodatskaya stressed.
When addressing the audience, Irina Alekseyeva, a representative of the Russian Community
of the Crimea, noted that this is a significant event in the cultural life of Yalta and the whole
Crimea.
Annex 10 Exhibit E
“Lesya Ukrainka’s creative works have enriched the world culture and literature. Her destiny
was harsh, but, overcoming her illness, she created, wrote wonderful poems, painted, and
studied music and pedagogy. With her life and creativity, she teaches us that we need to
believe in the best in any situation”, Ms. Alekseyeva said, pointing out that our duty is always
to remember and honour those literary figures who lived and worked in Yalta.
At the end of the solemn event, all those present laid flowers at the Lesya Ukrainka
Monument. After that, the opening ceremony of a temporary exhibition named “Lesya
Ukrainka’s Forest Song” and a round-table discussion called “The Motives of Lesya
Ukrainka’s Life” took place in celebration of the 150th anniversary of her birthdate.
Exhibit F
Naslednikitraditsy, Tradition Keepers – Radonitsa Folk Ensemble
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit F
Translation
Naslednikitraditsy, Tradition Keepers – Radonitsa Folk Ensemble, available at:
https://2020.naslednikitraditsy.ru/exponents/84.
Tradition Keepers – Radonitsa Folk Ensemble
The Radonitsa Folk Ensemble was founded in November 1999 by Elena N. Poletneva, who
remains its permanent Artistic Director throughout all the years of its existence. During its
career, the Ensemble has toured Simferopol and elsewhere, including Sevastopol, the Crimea,
Ukraine, Russia, Greece, France, and the Netherlands.
The Ensemble’s creative activity focuses on studying, assimilating and recreating the cultural
traditions of the Russian and Ukrainian folklores. Restoring and reconstructing traditional
clothes of their great-great-great-grandmothers, its members sew their own costumes from
fabrics similar to those used in the past, weave belts, make hats, string beads, and embroidery.
Thus, by mastering traditional artistic crafts, they create a true ensemble that organically unite
songs, dances and appearance. That is, they recreate and revive not individual works or types
of folk art but its most important principle: the inherently natural manner of life and the
interaction between the inner spiritual life and its external material manifestations.
In addition to their traditional folk performances, Radonitsa also master sacred folk music;
poems, cantos, psalms, canticles, and Byzantine chants. But the main goal of the Ensemble is
to popularise traditions, rituals and folklores among young people.
Exhibit G
VKontakte page, Dusha-Radonets Folk Ensemble (25 January 2023)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit G
Translation
VKontakte page, Dusha-Radonets Folk Ensemble (25 January 2023), available at:
https://vk.com/club120986049.
Dusha-Radonets Folk Ensemble | VKontakte
Dusha-Radonets Folk Ensemble
INFORMATION
Description:
Based in Simferopol, the Republic of Crimea, the Dusha-Radonets Folk Ensemble was
founded in 2015 as a companion group of the Radonitsa Children’s Ensemble on the premises
of the House of Peoples’ Friendship, a state budgetary institution of the Republic of Crimea,
by Alyona N. Poletneva with the active assistance and support from Director L.V. Sokirskaya
and Chief Methodologist O.A. Sigel, who is also a member of the Ensemble. Despite its rather
short history, Dusha-Radonets already has many worthy awards from various international
competitions. Its members are ordinary people aged 21 to 75 who, after their hard day’s work,
come to rehearsals to plunge into traditions and to master the skills of ensemble singing.
Dusha-Radonets’ repertoire is based on Ukrainian folklore and that collected in the
Ensemble’s own expeditions. The members of Dusha-Radonets create the missing elements of
authentic costumes with their own hands in strict accordance with ancient samples. The
Ensemble takes an active part in the creative life of the town and the Republic.
Our achievements over the past year:
The “Crafts of Russia” Ethno-Cultural Festival held by Living Russia Autonomous Non-profit
Organisation in Sevastopol: First Degree Laureate.
“Christmas Star in the Urals” International Folk Art Festival: First Degree Laureate.
“Grand Prix Interfolk” – 13th International Folklore Competition in St. Petersburg: First
Degree Laureate.
“Art-Children” – 2nd International Competition in Moscow, “We Are Great Artists”: First
Degree Laureate.
“Black Sea Stars” International Competition Festival: Second Degree Laureate.
Exhibit H
House of People’s Friendship, Congratulations on Victories! (21 March 2021)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit H
Translation
House of People’s Friendship, Congratulations on Victories! (21 March 2021), available at:
https://ddncrimea.ru/pozdravlyaem-s-pobedami/.
In the International Competition of Children’s, Youth and Adult Creativity, Radonitsa Children’s
Folklore Ensemble became a first-degree laureate and won the Grand Prix, and Dusha Radonets
Folklore Ensemble also became a first-degree laureate.
The two creative collectives operate on the premises of House of Peoples’ Friendship, a state
budgetary institution of the Republic of Crimea led by Alyona Poletneva.
We wish them further successes and inspirations!
Exhibit I
MK, Ukrainian Cultural Centre in Crimea Is Likely to Close (4 February 2017)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit I
Translation
MK, Ukrainian Cultural Centre in Crimea Is Likely to Close (4 February 2017), available
at: https://crimea.mk.ru/articles/2017/02/04/ukrainskiy-kulturnyy-centr-v-krymumozhet-
zakrytsya.html.
MKRU Crimea
4 February 2017 at 12:16 PM
POLITICS
Ukrainian Cultural Centre in Crimea Is Likely to Close
The Ukrainian Cultural Centre in Crimea can be closed as early as in March, Leonid
Kuzmin, its founder, told in an interview with Novaya Gazeta.
He noted that certain activists wrote letters to the Verkhovnaya Rada members, asking them
to allocate money to pay the rent for the Centre, but almost none of them responded.
Therefore, the Centre is likely to be closed in March.
“The only Verkhovnaya Rada member who responded was Yuli Mamchur. He transferred a
small amount of money, which will not be enough even to pay the rent for one month”, Mr.
Kuzmin said. “For all the time that the Centre has been existing, we have not received a single
hryvna from Ukrainian authorities. So we can say that Kiev is not interested in us. Due to the
lack of money, there is a real chance that we will have to close the Centre in March”, he
added.
The Ukrainian Cultural Centre has been existing in Crimea since 2015. Its goal is to protect
the Ukrainian culture, language and traditions on the peninsula.
Exhibit J
Ukraina.Ru, Spoiled Holiday: Who Needs a Scandal around Taras Shevchenko in Ukraine
(30 March 2021, updated on 13 July 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit J
Translation
Ukraina.ru, Spoiled Holiday: Who Needs a Scandal around Taras Shevchenko in Ukraine?
(30 March 2021, updated on 13 July 2022), available at:
https://ukraina.ru/20210330/1030981017.html.
By Konstantin Kevorkyan, Publicist
A new scandal is unfolding in Ukraine. The focus of attention is now on the poet and artist Taras
Shevchenko or, more precisely, on one of the events held on his memorial day.
On the 10th of March 2021, Rossotrudnichestvo (Russian Federal Agency for the Commonwealth
of Independent States Affairs, Compatriots Living Abroad, and International Humanitarian
Cooperation) held a teleconference between Kiev and Moscow to sum up the results of the
International Creative Contest of Contemporary Poets. In its information message about the
event, the Russian party called Taras Shevchenko a “Russian-Ukrainian poet”. Of course, some
“Ukrainian patriots” reacted quickly and nervously to those words unusual for them, but the
main scandal broke out almost two weeks later, which means it did not take place by chance but
was specially prepared.
First, the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs called the words that Taras Shevchenko was a
“Russian-Ukrainian poet” “manipulative and daring encroachments by the aggressor country”. In
its special comment given to Interfax-Ukraine news agency, the press service of the Foreign
Ministry stated that it denies “any Russian narratives about Taras Shevchenko”: “In connection
with the manipulative and daring encroachments by the aggressor country on Taras
Shevchenko’s historical, cultural and philosophical heritage, we note that the national selfidentification
of Kobzar, an irreconcilable fighter for the national and spiritual revival of Ukraine
and the liberation of our homeland from the Russian oppression, can not cause any doubts. The
Ministry of Foreign Affairs denies any Russian narratives about Taras Shevchenko”.
Annex 10 Exhibit J
Then the now all-powerful National Security and Defence Council (NSDC) joined the scandal.
In particular, the NSDC announced that it was willing to consider closing the Russian Centre for
Science and Culture (Rossotrudnichestvo’s representative office) in Kiev upon an official
request. “The NSDC will consider terminating the operations of the Russian Centre for Science
and Culture in Kiev if requested to do so by the President of Ukraine or another legislative
leadership”, the NSDC said in its comment to Radio Liberty*.
This saying brings us closer to the essence of the problem. With the on-going Russophobic
“witch hunt” in Ukraine, the very existence of the Russian Centre for Science and Culture is
nonsense, so a reason for sanctions would have been necessarily found, if not this time, then on
another occasion. Perhaps, the Ukrainian authorities did not close the Centre earlier only because
they simply had no time to deal with the modest House of Russian Culture as they were busy
fighting the numerous “enemies”. Plus, such unfriendly behaviour would entail a risk of
retaliatory sanctions in the form of the closure of the Ukrainian House on Arbat Street in
Moscow. However, there are no stupidities the Ukrainian authorities could not make.
Obviously, the reason for the scandal is concocted out of thin air. Why not talk about Taras
Shevchenko as a figure of both Russian and Ukrainian culture – after all, he spent most of his life
not just in the Russian Empire but in the territory of the modern Russia, served in the Russian
army (and even had a right to become an officer), written almost all of his prose in Russian, was
an academician of the Russian Academy of Arts, and died in St. Petersburg. Moreover, he did
not consider himself a Ukrainian but a Ruthenian and compiled the “South Russian Primer”. In
that respect, he is certainly a man of all-Russian culture. Any denial of this fact would contradict
the history itself.
Perhaps, the stylistic mistake made by the organisers of the event was that they called Taras
Shevchenko a Russian-Ukrainian “poet” rather than a “cultural figure”; the main part of
Kobzar’s poetic heritage was created in Ukrainian (more precisely, in the Little Russian dialect,
which significantly differs from the current Polonised Ukrainian “state language”). But this is
more of a reason for cultural discussions than for political repressions. However, I repeat, the
official Kiev was keen to have a reason to kick up a row.
Another, broader aspect of the problem is that decades of ideological propaganda have turned
Taras Shevchenko into a real idol having, perhaps, more monuments around the globe (almost
one thousand and four hundred) than even Jesus Christ. The love for Taras Shevchenko became a
kind of religion (spreading up to decorating his portraits with towels and candles like icons and
colouring his image with the high-flown epithets of “prophet”, “martyr” and “saint”).
Although, for example, Ivan Franko, another Ukrainian literature classic, spoke about Kobzar’s
talent more than critically. “You, Sir, are doing stupid things by praising this Shevchenko as God
knows whom. In the meantime, he is just an average poet whom they undeservedly try to put on
the pedestal of a world genius”, Ivan Franko wrote in his letter to Vasyl Domanitsky, a famous
Shevchenko scholar.
For a reasonable person, idolisation of any human being runs contrary to common sense, and for
a religious person, it also contradicts God’s commandments. This kind of quasi-religion turns
into animalistic hysteria humiliating both the fanatic himself and the object of his worship. We
are all ordinary people with our own advantages and disadvantages.
A bright and charismatic person, Taras Shevchenko became a controversial writer, a famous
artist and a man incurring political punishments yet while alive but at the same time terribly far
from his usual image of an old peasant dressed in a sheepskin coat. On the contrary, he led quite
Annex 10 Exhibit J
a bohemian lifestyle in St. Petersburg, was a slob, a heavy drinker and certainly not the most
boring character from a school textbook. But who cares about a living person when it comes to
an idol?
“Today, Taras Shevchenko would have turned 207 years old”, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denis
Shmygal wrote on the memorable date on his Facebook page in the wild style typical of the
modern Ukraine. Does it mean he would have lived until the present time if he were not affected
by poor-quality gorilka, the Russian tsar and the Moskalis in general? Again, Taras Shevchenko
was certainly a well-known figure of all-Russian culture, a talented artist, and an outstanding
poet. But his actual canonisation (which began almost immediately after his death) had and still
has political rather than creative causes.
This, in turn, generates an equally sharp political rejection leaving little room for the real Taras
Shevchenko. Archpriest Andrey Tkachev, a former resident of Kiev, criticises Shevchenko’s
creative legacy from a political standpoint: “He was a destructively thinking person, and he
poisoned the consciousness of Ukrainianism on its rise. When Ukrainianism spun off from the
Russian world and realised itself as original, they absorbed all his poetics and main ideology:
everyone is guilty, except for us. In short, I believe Taras Shevchenko created false ideas that
have been disastrous throughout the history of Ukraine”.
But is it possible to talk about destruction if we recall Shevchenko as a convinced supporter of
Slavic unity saying “so that all Slavs become good brothers and Sons of the sun of truth…”, “let
the Slavic land remain not delimited forever from the sea and to the sea, covered with rye and
wheat like gold”, and “we are the same mother’s children, we are all Slavs”? In fact, under the
last three Russian emperors, pan-Slavism has become one of the main foundations of the Russian
foreign policy doctrine. But could Taras Shevchenko be one of the pillars of imperial ideology?
However, let us think reasonably: could a writer who was not the most popular one in an
illiterate and predominantly peasant country personally poison the consciousness of very many
people? Or, maybe, after all, the matter is in the aspirations of a part of the ruling class and the
intelligentsia as well as in the skilful propaganda (including from outside of the country)?
And, depending on the current political situation, the image of Taras Shevchenko in this struggle
is also a tool in the hands of certain stakeholders. For example, if you look closely at Ilya
Repin’s famous pre-revolutionary painting “They Did Not Expect Him”, you will see a portrait
of Shevchenko hanging on the wall of the flat where a “Narodnaya Volya” member returns home
from exile. A cult character of the Soviet history and an idol of the Galician diaspora that
opposed the “Soviets”, Taras Shevchenko is now a God-like idol of Ukraine exhausted by
controversies.
A prominent figure of the Russian culture and a Ukrainian poet, Taras Shevchenko is not two
different people. It is impossible to either tear him into two parts or to destroy his bilingual
heritage because he even kept his personal diaries in Russian. And no strange statements by the
Ukrainian Foreign Ministry or repressions by the NSDC will erase this historical fact.
* A media outlet acting as a foreign agent.
Exhibit K
Interfax, Putin Criticises Authorities Who Imposed Fines for Listening to Ukrainian Music in
Moscow (14 October 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit K
Translation
Interfax, Putin Criticises Authorities Who Imposed Fines for Listening to Ukrainian Music
in Moscow (14 October 2022), available at: https://www.interfax.ru/russia/867925.
InterFax
In Russia
14 October 2022 at 04:39 PM
Putin Criticises Fine Imposed for Listening to Ukrainian Music in Moscow
Updated at 03:32 PM
Moscow. October 14. INTERFAX.RU – President Vladimir Putin called unacceptable any
restrictions on Ukrainian culture and urged not to be like those who are trying to “cancel” the
Russian culture.
At his press conference, he was told that a man who was listening to Ukrainian music in his
car was fined in Moscow, and the President was asked to comment on that incident.
“We should not be like those who cancel any culture – culture has nothing to do with it at all”,
he replied. “If the present-day authorities in Kiev consider it possible to support neo-Nazis,
torchlight processions in the centre of their cities and those people walking around with Nazi
symbols, this has nothing to do with Ukrainian culture”.
Commenting on the attempts to ban the Russian language and Russian culture in general in
Ukraine, the President said: “We always resent any attempts to close or cancel Russian
culture – this is absolute nonsense, as one of our musicians said: ‘They are a kind of fools’.
We should not behave in the same way”.
He reminded that “the Ukrainian language belongs to one of the state languages in one of the
constituent entities of the Russian Federation – the Crimea”.
“In the Crimea, Ukrainian is a state language along with Crimean Tatar and Russian, so this is
illegal in itself”, Putin noted.
In addition, according to him, there are Ukrainians who are citizens of Russia and
permanently live in Russia.
“Well, how can we ban their language and culture? We do not even have such thoughts in our
heads. But I understand what this is associated with – this is emotional behaviour against the
background of everything that is happening today. I know that many of our families know,
hear and love Ukrainian songs and Ukrainian culture. Hits in the Ukrainian language were
very popular even in the Soviet Union”, the President added.
Exhibit L
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Music Unites: Ukrainian Song Performed at Unity Day Concert
(7 November 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit L
Translation
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Music Unites: Ukrainian Song Performed at Unity Day
Concert (7 November 2022), available at:
http://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/article/show/17353.
pereyaslavskayarada.com
Music Unites: Ukrainian Song Performed at Unity Day Concert
On the 4th of November, Russia celebrated the National Unity Day – the nation’s oldest
and at the same time the youngest public holiday, which is based on heroism, cohesion
and popular movement. The Russian people have once again shown that they can unite
at any difficult moment and that their strength lies in their unity. Today, this holiday
has become a symbol of the victories won by the Russian people over foreign invaders.
Ukrainian Music as Part of Songs of Russian World
Annex 10 Exhibit L
Photo: Russia 24 TV channel screenshot
A large festive concert is traditionally broadcast on the National Unity Day. This year, that
concert is called “Songs of the Russian World”. The arrangers gathered the best Russian stage
performers. They have not forgotten about those Ukrainians living in Russia. One of the
performances was made in Ukrainian.
The song was performed by the Kuban Cossack Choir and Taisiya Povaliy, a famous
Ukrainian singer who has to live in Moscow due to political oppressions in Ukraine. They
performed the legendary song “Nese Galya Vodu”. This song combines everything; the sweet
softness of the Ukrainian language, its incredible melody, intelligibility, tenderness, and
shrewdness. And the way it is performed by several voices is absolutely beautiful. As soon as
you start singing it, you immediately imagine a village, incredible natural surroundings and a
girl carrying water and a guy trying to draw her attention to himself with compliments.
Everything seems simple, but so beautiful and expressive. The audience received this
performance very warmly. Many people sang along.
Fate of Ukrainian in Russia
Now people are hotly discussing on the Internet what to do with the Ukrainian language.
Paradoxically, many are afraid to speak Ukrainian or sing Ukrainian songs. People do not
understand there are no prohibitions on the use of that language.
Russian President Vladimir Putin clearly outlined Russia’s position on this matter at a press
conference in Astana:
“We are constantly indignant at attempts to cancel the Russian culture – this is just complete
nonsense… We should not behave in the same way. Second, Ukrainian is one of the state
languages in Crimea – one of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation, along with
Crimean Tatar and Russian. So that is illegal in itself. Third, there are about three million
Ukrainians living in Russia – well, how can we ban their language and culture? We do not
Annex 10 Exhibit L
even have such thoughts in our heads. I think many of our families love Ukrainian songs and
culture. Hits in the Ukrainian language were very popular even in the USSR. And I think we
should not be like those who cancel any culture”.
The Ukrainian language is not indifferent to the Russian government. Otherwise, that would
be contrary to the principles of the federal structure of our country. Recall that when Crimea
reunited with Russia, the Ukrainian language became one of the state languages (along with
Crimean Tatar and Russian) of this new constituent entity of the Federation. The entire
government workflow here is conducted in these languages, and local children, if their parents
want it, have the option to study at school in one of those languages and even pass exams in
all three.
New Regions of Russia not to Ban Ukrainian Language
Neither Ukrainian nor any other language will be prohibited from being studied in the LPR,
DPR, Zaporozhzhia Region and Kherson Region, said Russian Deputy Foreign Minister
Evgeny Ivanov.
“The treaty stipulates that Russian is the state language, but the study of other languages will
not be prohibited”, he said.
He clarified that the decision to study Ukrainian in those regions will be made by the regional
authorities.
“Among other things. But that will be determined by the local authorities. But in general, no
(that is not prohibited – Editor’s note.)”, Mr. Ivanov added.
We may recall that after referendums had been held in the LPR, DPR, Zaporozhzhia Region
and Kherson Region, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed treaties with the heads of those
regions on their admission to the Russian Federation. Then, the Constitutional Court of Russia
found these treaties to be consistent with the Constitution of the Russian Federation. The
Russian State Duma ratified the treaties on the 3rd of October.
Moreover, a textbook of the classical Ukrainian language may appear by the end of 2022. In
the LPR, DPR, Zaporozhzhia Region and Kherson Region, a textbook of the classical
Ukrainian language may appear by the end of this year, Russian First Deputy Minister of
Education Alexander Bugayev told TASS.
“Absolutely. Yes, we will do our best (to publish the textbook by the end of this year –
Editor’s note)”, he said.
He noted that efforts are currently being made to make the textbook a high-quality one, so it is
being drafted “on the classical Soviet foundations”.
“That is exactly the kind of textbook that is being drafted. It will be a textbook representing
all the beauty of Ukrainian, the real Ukrainian language”, the Deputy Minister said.
Mr. Bugayev explained that his Ministry had already prepared methodological
recommendations for educational institutions where Ukrainian is studied as a native language
or for its use in electives.
Annex 10 Exhibit L
We understand there is no goal in Russia to ban the Ukrainian culture and language. Anyway,
that is our history and our past. By cancelling the Ukrainian language, we will behave like the
Ukrainian authorities who seek to completely eradicate Russian. But still, you need to clearly
understand that songs are different.
Songs in Russian, Ukrainian and Belarusian that glorify folk and spiritual motifs make us
united and unite everyone. Perhaps, such songs will help revive the memory that we are all
brothers and sisters and we are united!
An opinion of the Editorial Board can only be voiced by the Editor-in-Chief. The opinions of
our authors and invited guests may not coincide with those of the Editorial Board.
Exhibit M
Smotrim, New Year’s Show 2023, “Chervona Ruta” by Taisiya Povally (31 December 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit M
Translation
Smotrim, New Year’s Show 2023, “Chervona Ruta” by Taisiya Povally (31 December 2022),
available at: https://smotrim.ru/video/2540239.
Exhibit N
Sudak.me, Winners of “The Great Silk Road” Festival Contest Gave Gala Concert in Sudak
(24 June 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit N
Translation
Sudak.me, Winners of “The Great Silk Road” Festival Contest Gave Gala Concert in Sudak
(24 June 2022), available at: https://sudak.me/news/3642-v-sudake-sostojalsja-galakoncert-
pobeditelei-festivalja-konkursa-velikii-shyolkovyi-put.html.
By Alexey Rogozhin
The First All-Russian Festival Contest “The Great Silk Road” ended in Sudak. Its history began
much earlier, in 1991, when representatives of a variety of countries took part in it.
Unfortunately, the festival ceased to exist with the collapse of the USSR. However, it was
revived as an all-Russian festival in 2022.
The Festival was attended by collectives and soloists from various cities and towns of Crimea.
The contestants were judged by a competent jury consisting of Nikolai Antyufriev, Chairman of
the Jury Board, an Honoured Artist of Ukraine, an Honoured Culture Worker of the Republic of
Crimea, Associate Professor of the Chair of Theatrical Arts, and a co-founder of the Festival;
Ekaterina Lisovaya, Director of Centralised Club System of the Sudak Urban District, a
municipal budgetary institution of culture; Natalia Kungurtseva, an Honoured Artist of Russia,
and a prima ballerina of the Classical Russian Ballet Company directed by Khasan Usmanov;
and Inna Delyagina, an ideological inspirer, a co-founder of the Festival, an Honoured Worker of
Ukrainian Pop Art, and President of Kapsikhor Crimean Association of Fine Arts, a public
organisation.
On the 23rd of June, a ceremony to award the winners of the Festival and a gala concert took
place in the local museum reserve. All laureates were awarded cups, certificates and gifts from
the company Tsarstvo Aromatov (Kingdom of Aromas), a partner of the Festival.
Yunost Ballroom Dance Ensemble (based in the urban settlement of Koktebel, Feodosia Urban
District, and led by Angelina Vasilyevskaya, an Honoured Culture Worker of the Republic of
Crimea) won the Grand Prix.
Annex 10 Exhibit N
The following collectives and soloists also took part in the Festival and became first- and
second-degree laureates:
• Rodnye Napevy Folk Vocal Ensemble based in the village of Zavetnoye, Sovetsky District,
and led by Eldar Nemetullayev, performing a Russian folk song “On the Hills and
Mountains”;
• Yunost Exemplary Choreographic Ensemble based in the urban settlement of
Novofyodorovka, Saki District, and led by Elena Pulnikova, performing a Serbian dance
“Kolo”;
• Vdokhnoveniye Duo consisting of Nikita Karayani and Anastasia Baikova based in the urban
settlement of Koktebel, Feodosia Urban District, and led by Angelina Vasilyevskaya, an
Honoured Worker of the Republic of Crimea, performing “Latin Express”;
Annex 10 Exhibit N
Evgenia Fitsko, a soloist of Ulybka Vocal Studio based on the town of Sudak and led by
Valentina Meshkova, an Honoured Culture Worker of the Republic of Crimea, performing
“Balalaika” (music by Mikhail Tanich and lyrics by Igor Nikolayev);
Yunost Choreographic Ensemble based in the urban settlement of Gresovsky, Simferopol Urban
District, and led by Tatyana Morgunova, performing a Turkish dance “Halay”;
Sofia Boyko, a soloist of Raduga Vocal Ensemble based in the village of Vesyoloe, Sudak Urban
District, and led by Saniye Ametova, performing “This Song is Simple” (from Iowa’s
repertoire);
Mydancegroup Dance School based in the town of Sudak and led by Ava Khalilova, performing
“Directions”;
Deti Morya Dance Studio based in the town of Sudak and directed by Olga Rudenko, performing
“Dance in the Rain”;
Kabluchok Folk Dance Group based in the town of Alushta and directed by Natalia Melnyk,
performing a Ukrainian dance “Rakivchanka”;
Sevilya Jabbarrova, a soloist of Ulybka Vocal Studio based in the town of Sudak and led by
Valentina Meshkova, an Honoured Culture Worker of the Republic of Crimea, performing
“Golden Rus” (music by Klimenko and lyrics by Lebedok);
Devchata Contemporary Dance Ensemble based in the urban settlement of Koktebel, Feodosia
Urban District, and led by Egor Leontiev, performing “Fuego”;
Annex 10 Exhibit N
Zvyozdochki Choreographic Ensemble based in the town of Sudak and led by Tatiana
Temlyakovskaya and Gulchera Bekirova, performing “Moldovan Dance”;
Raduga Trio based in the village of Vesyoloye, Sudak Urban District, and led by Saniye
Ametova, performing “There Were Dances” (from Bianca’s repertoire);
Diana Huseynova and Melek Seitkhalilova, a duo of Kara-Dag Crimean Tatar Folklore
Ensemble based in the city of Feodosia and led by Velyade Ablyalimova, performing “Ilham –
Inspiration”;
Voyage Choreographic Collective based in the urban settlement of Novofyodorovka, Saki
District, and led by Tatyana Bushuyeva, performing a Belarusian dance “Krutukha”;
Ekaterina Usmanskaya, a soloist of Breeze Vocal Studio based in the urban settlement of Simeiz,
Yalta Urban District, and led by Valentina Shapovalova, an Honoured Worker of the Republic of
Crimea, performing “Nochenka” (lyrics and music by Anna Petryasheva);
Eridance Choreographic Ensemble based in the village of Vesyoloye, Sudak Urban District, and
led by Indira Ramazanova, performing “Kyzlar Oyuny”;
Fantastica Dance Ensemble based in the urban settlement of Koktebel, Feodosia Urban District,
and led by Angelina Vasilyevskaya, an Honoured Culture Worker of the Republic of Crimea,
performing “Yagodka-Malinka”;
Maria Kolesnikova based in the village of Vorobiovo, Saki District, and led by Irina
Anopchenko, performing an art song named “My Family” (music by Elena Lebedenko and lyrics
by Elena Lebedenko and Maria Kolesnikova);
Elizaveta Zhydetskaya, a soloist of Yunost Exemplary Choreographic Dance Ensemble based in
the urban settlement of Novoofyodorovka, Saki District, and led by Elena Pulnikova, performing
“Yakutyanochka”;
Zvyozdochki Choreographic Ensemble based in the town of Sudak and led by Tatiana
Temlyakovskaya and Gulchera Bekirova, performing “Golden Bee”;
Annex 10 Exhibit N
Anna Dracheva based in the urban settlement of Azovskoye, Dzhankoy District, performing
“Ballad of Sons” (from Melnitsa’s repertoire – TBD);
Z-studio Oriental Dance Collective based in the town of Sudak and led by Zarema Rustemova,
performing “Omar”;
Koktebelskiye Rostochki Folk Dance Ensemble based in the urban settlement of Koktebel,
Feodosia Urban District, and led by Anna Bukai, performing “Romanian Dance”;
Anastasia Gaposhkina based in the village of Ivanovka, Nizhnegorsky District, and led by
Vitaliy Volynko, performing “Oh, on St. John Baptist’s Day” (lyrics and music by Alena
Vyalkova);
Zvyozdochki Choreographic Ensemble based in the town of Sudak and led by Tatiana
Temlyakovskaya and Gulchera Bekirova, performing “Cossack’s Lezghinka”;
Breaking H2Ocrew based in the town of Sudak and led by Ivan Kuzmin;
Alena Nikitina, a soloist of Ulybka Vocal Studio based in the town of Sudak and led by
Valentina Meshkova, an Honoured Culture Worker of the Republic of Crimea, performing “Girl
Named Russia” (lyrics and music by Elmira Putilova);
Annex 10 Exhibit N
Kabluchok Folk Dance Collective based in the city of Alushta and led by Natalia Melnik,
performing a Russian folk dance “Barynya”;
Fantastica Dance Ensemble based in the urban settlement of Koktebel, Feodosia Urban District,
and led by Angelina Vasilyevskaya, an Honoured Culture Worker of the Republic of Crimea,
performing “Russian Waltz”;
Kara-Dag Crimean Tatar Folklore Ensemble based in the city of Feodosia and led by Velyade
Ablyazova, performing “Kara-Dag”; and
Tatyana Miskova and Ildar Asanov based in the village of Lobanovo, Dzhankoy District, and led
by Tatyana Miskova, performing “Absolutely Everything”.
Exhibit O
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Crimean Ukrainians Hold First Local Borsch Festival “Borsch
Unites” (12 November 2021)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit O
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
The 10th of November is celebrated everywhere in the post-Soviet countries as the Borsch
Day. As part of the event, Bulba & Salo’s experienced chef held a master class on how to
cook borsch, and the Ukrainian Community of Crimea arranged bright competitions and
quizzes for the visitors. Folk art groups also performed during the event.
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
Annex 10 Exhibit O
Meat, beets, cabbage, potatoes, roast and fragrant broth – these are the components of a good
Ukrainian borsch. Which good Ukrainian hostess does not have her own family recipe for
borsch? The secret of its cooking is passed down from generation to generation and is
protected no worse than any state secret. Its quality is determined by density, richness, and
steam height.
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
In Ukrainian villages, a girl able to cook the most delicious borsch was the most desired bride.
This dish is so popular that it was loved not only by commoners, but also by royal family
members. For example, Catherine II called borsch her favourite dish and kept a separate cook
at her court to cook it. In Ukraine, all important events such as weddings, name days, and
wakes are never complete without this wonderful soup.
Annex 10 Exhibit O
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
“We did not say: borsch is yours or borsch is ours. We decided that borsch unites. Therefore,
we decided to gather not only Ukrainians, but also representatives of other nationalities
living in the Crimea at our festival”, Anastasia Gridchina said.
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
Annex 10 Exhibit O
Borsch was to the taste of all guests of the event. For example, Yuri Gempel, the Chair of the
Committee on Public Diplomacy and Interethnic Relations of the State Council of the
Republic of Crimea, said:
“The first festival of the national Ukrainian dish is an opportunity to popularise Ukrainian
national culture, customs and traditions. And, of course, this is very important. Such holidays
unite the peoples living in our Republic of Crimea because our Republic is the most
multinational region”.
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
The festival was held in compliance with all anti-epidemiological requirements imposed by
Rospotrebnadzor [Russian State Agency for Health and Consumer Rights]. To enter the event
site, you had to have a QR code proving your vaccination or a PCR test made no earlier than
one week before the event.
Annex 10 Exhibit O
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
At the festival, the guests managed to try a variety of versions of the favourite dish – from a
classic dish in beef broth and a Ukrainian borsch with pork to a lean borsch for vegetarians.
Borsch is one of the few dishes that symbolise the true friendship of the peoples of the Crimea
and really unites them!
Annex 10 Exhibit O
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
An opinion of the Editorial Board can only be voiced by the Editor-in-Chief. The opinions of
our authors and invited guests may not coincide with those of the Editorial Board.
Exhibit P
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Books in Ukrainian Presented in Crimea (18 February 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit P
Translation
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Books in Ukrainian Presented in Crimea (18 February 2022),
available at: http://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/article/show/14162.
pereyaslavskayarada.com
Books in Ukrainian Presented in Crimea
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
Today, 18 February 2022, the headquarters of the Entrepreneurs’ House hosted a presentation
by the Ukrainian Community of Crimea regional civil society organisation on several books in
Ukrainian published by the Ismail Gasprinsky Media Centre state-funded autonomous
institution of the Republic of Crimea with the support of the State Committee for Interethnic
Relations of the Republic of Crimea.
The presented titles included a collection of fairy tales “Mom's Fairy Tales” by Arina Em
(Marina Eduardovna Geydyunas) and a collection of selected works by Lesya Ukrainka “A
Flower in the Palm of Eternity” in Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar, compiled by Valery Basyrov
and translated by Yunus Kandymov. The presentation was attended by the authors and
compilers of the published books, joined by Chairman of the State Committee for Interethnic
Relations of the Republic of Crimea Ayder Tippa, the director of the Ismail Gasprinsky Media
Centre Vahan Vermishyan, Director of the “House of Friendship of Peoples” Larisa Sokirskaya,
chairmen of national cultural associations, as well as members of the Ukrainian Community of
Crimea RCSO, fans of Ukrainian literature and the authors. It should be noted that the
manuscripts were presented by their authors and compilers.
Annex 10 Exhibit P
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
During the event, poems by Igor Nikolaevich Klossovsky, a member of the Union of Writers
of the Republic of Crimea, were recited, and Ukrainian Community of Crimea RCSO’s print
media, including the Krym Syogodni [Crimea Today] magazine and the Krymski Visnyk
[Crimean Herald] in Ukrainian were presented to the audience. The presentation event also
featured songs in Ukrainian performed by the Poyuschie Serdtsa [Singing Hearts] band, and the
audience watched a Ukrainian folk dance performed by the Kalamita dance company.
Anastasia Gridchina, Chairwoman of the Ukrainian Community of Crimea regional civil
society organisation, told why it’s important to publish books in native languages, in particular
in Ukrainian, in Crimea.
“Ukrainian is the second national language of the Republic of Crimea. For me as Chairwoman
of the Ukrainian Community, it is very important and precious that manuscripts and facsimile
editions in Ukrainian are published in our Republic, thereby promoting to the development and
preventing the riches and soul of our people, our mother tongue, from fading away. I am
convinced that publishing books in the native languages of the peoples of the Republic of
Crimea, especially in a multilingual format, contributes to enhancing the unity of the Russian
nation and interethnic and intercultural communication and interaction. I know that these
books will be frequently ordered in Crimean libraries, schools and universities and will become
a great contribution to the development of the literatures and languages of the peoples of our
peninsula,” Anastasia Sergeyevna said.
Annex 10 Exhibit P
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
An opinion of the Editorial Board can only be voiced by the Editor-in-Chief. The opinions of
our authors and invited guests may not coincide with those of the Editorial Board.
Exhibit Q
The Civic Chamber of the Republic of Crimea, Books in Ukrainian Presented in Crimea
(18 February 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit Q
Translation
The Civic Chamber of the Republic of Crimea, Books in Ukrainian Presented in Crimea
(18 February 2022), available at: https://opcrimea.ru/novosti/v-krymu-sostoyalasprezentaciya-
knig-na-ukrainskom-yazyke.html.
The Civic Chamber of the Republic of Crimea
NEWS
18 February 2022
Books in Ukrainian Presented in Crimea
On 18 February 2022, the Ukrainian Community of Crimea held a presentation in Simferopol
on several books in Ukrainian published with the support of the Ismail Gasprinsky Media
Centre and the State Committee for Interethnic Relations of the Republic of Crimea.
The presentation was attended by the authors and compilers of the published books, joined by
Chairman of the State Committee for Interethnic Relations of the Republic of Crimea Ayder
Tippa, the director of the Ismail Gasprinsky Media Centre Vahan Vermishyan, the director of
the House of Friendship of Peoples Larisa Sokirskaya, chairmen of national cultural
associations, as well as members of the Ukrainian Community of Crimea RCSO and admirers
of Ukrainian literature and the works of the authors of the books presented.
Annex 10 Exhibit Q
The presented titles included a collection of fairy tales “Mom's Fairy Tales” by Arina Em
(Marina Eduardovna Geydyunas) and a collection of selected works by Lesya Ukrainka “A
Flower in the Palm of Eternity” in Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar, compiled by Valery Basyrov
and translated by Yunus Kandymov.
Annex 10 Exhibit Q
Ukrainian Community of Crimea’s print media, including the Krym Syogodni [Crimea Today]
magazine and the Krymski Visnyk [Crimean Herald] in Ukrainian were presented to the
audience. The presentation event featured songs in Ukrainian performed by the Poyuschie
Serdtsa [Singing Hearts] band, and the audience watched a Ukrainian folk dance performed by
the Kalamita dance company.
“For me as Chairwoman of the community, it is very important and precious that manuscripts
in Ukrainian are published in our Republic, thereby promoting to the development and
preventing the riches and soul of our people, our mother tongue, from fading away. I am
convinced that publishing books in the native languages of the peoples of the Republic of
Crimea, especially in a multilingual format, contributes to enhancing the unity of the Russian
nation and interethnic and intercultural communication and interaction. I know that these books
will be frequently ordered in Crimean libraries, schools and universities and will become a great
contribution to the development of the literatures and languages of the peoples of our
peninsula,” Anastasia Gridchina wrote in her social network post.
Exhibit R
A. Em, MOM'S FAIRY TALES: A COLLECTION OF FAIRY TALES (the Ismail Gasprinsky
Media Centre state-funded autonomous institution of the Republic of Crimea, 2021)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit R
Translation
A. Em, MOM’S FAIRY TALES: A COLLECTION OF FAIRY TALES (the Ismail Gasprinsky
Media Centre state-funded autonomous institution of the Republic of Crimea, 2021).
Mom’s Fairy Tales by Arina Em
Arina Em is the pen-name of Marina Eduardovna Geydyunas. She was born and lives in Crimea.
By occupation, Marina Geydyunas is a practicing psychologist. The scope of her professional
activity includes psychological counselling for children, family therapy, and improving the
psychological climate in work teams.
With her talent and skill, Arina combines various social projects and psychological practice in
her activities. She is a creative person whose life is filled with a lot of new incredible plans and
ideas, especially literary ones. Her books are interesting and useful for both children and adults.
Annex 10 Exhibit R
Arina Em
Mom’s Fairy Tales
Annex 10 Exhibit R
Annex 10 Exhibit R
UDC 821.161.1
Published by the Ismail Gasprinsky Media Centre state-funded autonomous institution of the
Republic of Crimea with the support of the State Committee for Interethnic Relations of the
Republic of Crimea on funds from the federal budget and from the budget of the Republic of
Crimea.
Approved by the Advisory Council on publication of socially important literature in native
languages under the Ismail Gasprinsky Media Centre state-funded autonomous institution of
the Republic of Crimea.
Not for commercial distribution
Arina Em
Mom’s Fairy Tales: a collection of fairy tales. Simferopol, I. Gasprinsky Media Centre statefunded
autonomous institution of the Republic of Crimea, 2021, 168 pages.
ISBN 978-5-6046690-0-6
This is an amazing and unusual book of fairy tales by the Crimean author Arina Em. The book
is for family reading: it will be fun both for children and their parents. Mom’s Fairy Tales is
written in two languages, Russian and Ukrainian, contributing to harmony and promotion of
interethnic and multicultural relations in Crimea. Apart from enriching mutual knowledge, the
interpenetration of the two Slavic language cultures also helps them complement each other. It
allows the reader to understand the artistic meaning of the translation using a specific example
and to highlight a personality that the plot of the fairy tale means to disclose.
© Arina Em (Geydyunas, M. E.), 2021
© I. Gasprinsky Media Centre, 2021
Annex 10 Exhibit R
Mom’s Fairy Tales
“The goal of storytellers... consists in fostering in the child, at whatever cost, compassion and
humaneness – the miraculous ability of man to be disturbed by another being’s misfortunes, to
feed joy about other being’s happiness, to experience another’s fate as one’s own...Only this
ability, inherent in the individual from early childhood... has begotten and will beget in the
future the Bestuzhevs, the Pirogovs, the Nekrasovs, the Chekhovs, the Gorkys...”
Kornei Chukovsky “From Two To Five”
This is an amazing and unusual book of fairy tales by the Crimean author Arina Em. The book
is for family reading time: it will be fun both for children and their parents. Mom’s Fairy Tales
is written in two languages, Russian and Ukrainian, undoubtedly contributing to harmony and
promotion of interethnic and multicultural relations in Crimea. Apart from enriching mutual
knowledge, the interpenetration of the two Slavic language cultures also helps them
complement each other. It allows the reader to understand the artistic meaning of the translation
using a specific example and to highlight a personality that the plot of the fairy tale means to
disclose.
There are many aids in bringing up and educating children, but there is one that has been tested
for centuries and still produces excellent results – it’s a fairy tale.
Mom’s Fairy Tales is a book of stories written as a fairy tale therapy. The main characters are
kids who face first challenges in their lives and analyse themselves and the world, trying to a
find a way out of difficult situations. Of course, the magic stories in Mom’s Fairy Tales tell
about events where the good always overcomes the evil, plain and simple.
Children and their parents who the book is written for will learn how to boost their creativity,
overcome difficulties, and acquire new knowledge and skills. It is worthy of note that these
fairy tales have been with us, helping to educate our children, for more than fifteen years now.
Useful tips are woven into the text and perceived as part of the plot, harmoniously lining up at
the appropriate logical levels. The fabulous techniques are working and bring benefits.
Mom’s Fairy Tales contains fairy tale stories of a new kind. They give your children the feeling
that you understand them and are always nearby, eager to help and protect.
Annex 10 Exhibit R
[Inclined fairy tale “The kingdom of teras, fairy dolls and violet girls”
in Russian]
[Inclined fairy tale “The kingdom of teras, fairy dolls and violet
girls” in Ukrainian]
Annex 10 Exhibit R
A literary/artistic publication
Arina Em
(Marina Eduardovna Geydyunas)
MOM’S FAIRY TALES
A collection of fairy tales
Editor: Svitvelieva, N. Yu.
Computer layout and design: Orlova, D. S.
Signed to print: 20 August 2021. Format: 70x100 1/16
Font: Arial. Conventional printed sheet: 13.65.
Quantity: 10.5 conventional printed sheets. Circulation: 400 copies. Order No. 21-16840.
I. Gasprinsky Media Centre state-funded autonomous institution of the Republic of Crimea
23-a Trubachenko Street, Simferopol, 295048, Republic of Crimea
E-mail: mediacenter2015@mail. ru
OGRN 1159102113455
Printed by K. Yu. Sangalov’s sole proprietorship
656 Kirpichnaya Street, Belgorod, 308000
E-mail: ria-izumrud @yandex.ru
Exhibit S
L. Ukrainka, A FLOWER IN THE PALM OF ETERNITY. SELECTED WORKS (the Ismail
Gasprinsky Media Centre state-funded autonomous institution of the Republic of Crimea, 2021)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit S
Translation
L. Ukrainka, A FLOWER IN THE PALM OF ETERNITY. SELECTED WORKS (the Ismail Gasprinsky Media Centre state-funded autonomous
institution of the Republic of Crimea, 2021).
Annex 10 Exhibit S
Lesya Ukrainka
A Flower in the Palm of Eternity
Annex 10 Exhibit S
UDC 821.161.2
BBK 84(Ukr)
U 45
Published by the Ismail Gasprinsky Media Centre state-funded
autonomous institution of the Republic of Crimea with the support of
the State Committee for Interethnic Relations of the Republic of
Crimea on funds from the federal budget and from the budget of the
Republic of Crimea. Approved by the Advisory Council on publication
of socially important literature in native languages under the Ismail
Gasprinsky Media Centre state-funded autonomous institution of the
Republic of Crimea.
Not for commercial distribution
Lesya Ukrainka
A Flower in the Palm of Eternity. Selected works. Simferopol, I.
Gasprinsky Media Centre state-funded autonomous institution of the
Republic of Crimea, 2021, 168 pages, In Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar
languages.
ISBN 978-5-6046689-2-4
The artistic legacy of Lesya Ukrainka is fertile soil for researchers of
the phenomenon of literary space and time. Translation is also a path to
the Poet. There is always a small miracle of turning “the indifference
of a dictionary” indifference" into a trembling vibration of the strings
of one’s soul.
UDC 821.161.2 BBK84(Ukr)
ISBN 978 5-6046689-2-4
© Lesya Ukrainka, author, 2021
© Basyrov, V., compiler, 2021
© Kandymov, Yu., translation from Ukrainian into Crimean Tatar,
2012
© I. Gasprinsky Media Centre state-funded autonomous institution of
the Republic of Crimea, 2021,
Annex 10 Exhibit S
[Inclined Melody poem in Ukrainian] [Inclined Melody poem in Crimean Tatar]
Annex 10 Exhibit S
A literary/artistic publication
Lesya Ukrainka
A FLOWER IN THE PALM OF ETERNITY
Selected Works
Compiled by V.M. Basyrov
Translated from Ukrainian into Crimean Tatar by Y.U. Kandymov
Preface by Doctor of Philology, professor, senior research fellow of the Fevzi Yakubov
Research Institute for Crimean Tatar Philology, History and Culture of the Ethnic Groups of
the Crimea V.I. Gumenyuk
Ukrainian texts edited by N.Y. Seitvelieva
Crimean Tatar texts edited by: N I. Bekirov, E R. Ajalimova
Artist: R I. Vaapov
Crimean Tatar text proofread by S.S. Sitzhalilova
Computer layout by E R. Ajalimov
Signed to print: 02 August 2021. Format: 70x100 1/16.
Offset printing. Font: BannikovaC. Conventional printed sheet: 13.65.
Quantity: 10.5 conventional printed sheets. Circulation 300 copies. Order No. 21 -14795.
I. Gasprinsky Media Centre state-funded autonomous institution of the Republic of Crimea
23-a Trubachenko Street, Simferopol, 295048, Republic of Crimea
E-mail: [email protected] | OGRN 1159102113455
Printed by CONSTANT LLC printing house
1/12 Berezovaya Street, Severny, 308519, Belgorod region
Phone/Fax +7 (4722) 300-720, www.konstanta-print.ru
Exhibit T
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, RPO Ukrainian Community of Crimea held a lesson dedicated to
Nikolai Gogol (1 April 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit T
Translation
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, RPO Ukrainian Community of Crimea held a lesson dedicated
to Nikolai Gogo (1 April 2022), available at:
http://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/article/show/14553.
pereyaslavskayarada.com
RPO Ukrainian Community of Crimea held a lesson dedicated to Nikolai
Gogol
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
Today, 1 April 2022, the Ukrainian Community of Crimea regional civil society organisation
held an open class dedicated to Nikolai Gogol’s 213th birth anniversary. The event was held at
the Simferopol Economic Lyceum.
Working together with educational organisations of the peninsula, the Ukrainian Community
of Crimea RPO strives to increase interest of the students in Russian and Ukrainian literature,
as well as enrich their spiritual world. The key objective of such events is to add to the students’
knowledge of the life and work of great writers. Today’s literature class for grades 7 and 8 of
the Simferopol Economic Lyceum was held in an unusual format. For the Ukrainian
Community of Crimea, this was also a new experience in celebrating Nikolai Gogol’s birth
anniversaries.
Annex 10 Exhibit T
The class was given to the kids by Anastasia Gridchina, Chairwoman of the Ukrainian
Community of Crimea RPO, who managed to concisely outline as many interesting facts about
the life and work of Nikolai Gogol as possible. Her communication with the audience began
with a short quiz. The students learned just how diverse the creative activities of the great
Russian writer were. Nikolai Gogol was a romantic person in his youth who then wrote realistic,
satirical and dramatic works as a prose author and a historian.
After a brief lecture on the main phases in the writer’s creative career, the students were shown
an educational film. Anastasia Gridchina also noted that the writer lived a short but bright life
full of difficulties and emotional events. “Today we can see that the writer’s words: “I know
that after I’m gone my name will be happier than myself,” turned out to be prophetic,” Mrs
Gridchina said.
Annex 10 Exhibit T
During the class, Anastasia Gridchina told the schoolchildren about the work of journalists of
the Crimea Today news agency. One of the issues of the Ukrainian Krym Siogodni [Crimea
Today] magazine tells readers about the works of Nikolai Gogol. It was interesting for the kids
to listen to the article in Ukrainian.
The ruthless time of Nicholas I was hard on Nikolai Gogol, just like it was on his great
contemporaries Pushkin and Lermontov. Nevertheless, he devoted his entire life to serving the
people. Nikolai Gogol was a writer who was not afraid to challenge the gloomy night of serfdom
Russia from the pages of his great books, for which he was criticised by ridiculed officials and
statesmen. Gogol’s works teach us to love good. Gogol ridiculed human vices and believed in
the strength of the people. Gogol’s glorious heritage is further enriched by modern authors of
the multinational literature.
Annex 10 Exhibit T
Gogol wrote: “To show this entire great process that the free spirit of man endured in bloody
labour, struggling from the very cradle against ignorance, nature and gigantic obstacles, this is
the goal of world history!” Our organisation believes that the guidelines set by Nikolai Gogol
must be observed today when the destinies of great people become a lesson for future
generations.
An opinion of the Editorial Board can only be voiced by the Editor-in-Chief. The opinions of
our authors and invited guests may not coincide with those of the Editorial Board.
Exhibit U
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Vasily Sukhomlinsky library opened in Simferopol (4 March 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit U
Translation
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Vasily Sukhomlinsky Library Opened in Simferopol
(4 March 2022), available at: https://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/article/show/14293.
pereyaslavskayarada.com
Vasily Sukhomlinsky Library Opened in Simferopol
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
To further inspire students’ interest in reading and educational self-improvement, a new library
was opened at Secondary School No. 38 in Simferopol on 1 March 2022. The ceremonial
opening was attended by members of the State Duma of the Russian Federation and the Civic
Chamber of the Republic of Crimea.
Mikhail Sheremet, a member of the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian
Federation, Anastasia Gridchina, a member of the Civic Chamber of the Republic of Crimea
and Chairwoman of the Ukrainian Community of Crimea RCSO, and Evgeny Kostylev, the
school headmaster, had the honour to cut the ribbon and declare the new library open.
The managers of Secondary School No. 38 believe that libraries are an integral link in the
education and upbringing system for the young generation. The name given to the library by
the school’s management emphasizes its pedagogical importance. The library bears the name
of Vasily Sukhomlinsky, an outstanding Soviet teacher and an ethnic Ukrainian. In his time, he
never tired of stressing the importance of the teacher’s work, because the teacher’s love for
knowledge wins children’s hearts: “It is extremely important for a child to understand and feel
every day that he has become mentally richer than yesterday, with his teacher’s help”.
Annex 10 Exhibit U
“Our key objective is to improve services provided by the library through the introduction of
new information technologies and the computerisation of library information processes to
provide a comfortable library environment. We strive to bring up a generation with a book in
their hands,” said Evgeny Kostylev, the headmaster of Secondary School No. 38. He also noted
that the library was a product of joint effort put in by school kids’ parents, the Department of
Education of the Simferopol City Administration, and the school staff.
The opening ceremony was also attended by Vladimir Olegovich Kuryanov, Doctor of
Chemical Sciences, Professor and First Vice-Rector of the V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal
University, and Roman Chegrinets, Chairman of the Belorussians of Crimea RNCA.
After the opening ceremony, a workshop on Vasily Sukhomlinsky’s Legacy and Modern
School was held at Secondary School No. 38 in Simferopol.
Annex 10 Exhibit U
“Libraries are important to society because they provide all citizens with access to knowledge
and culture. All over the world, libraries are the first place that information users turn to. I
believe that the school's management has done a good job in this area,” Mikhail Sheremet told
the audience.
Anastasia Gridchina also made a welcoming speech and a report on Vasyl Sukhomlinsky’s
work, noting that the main objectives of the state today is to inculcate cultural and civic
consciousness, assist the younger generation with their socialisation and development of their
creative potential. “I’d like to thank the school administration for their work, professional
approach to their cause, and for keeping the memory of the great innovative Soviet teacher, an
ethnic Ukrainian, Vasily Sukhomlinsky,” Anastasia Gridchina said.
Annex 10 Exhibit U
During the event, the Ukrainian Community of Crimea chairwoman handed over a lot of books
to the library, including “Mom’s Fairy Tales” by Arina Em and “A Flower in the Palm of
Eternity” by Lesya Ukrainka, published by the Ukrainian Community of Crimea, as well as
Krym Siogodni [Crimea Today] magazines and newspapers in Ukrainian.
The renovated library can now offer comfortable book search and retrieval services to
schoolchildren, along with a convenient tool for the librarian to handle the library stock. To this
end, computerised book search and record systems are being actively implemented.
An opinion of the Editorial Board can only be voiced by the Editor-in-Chief. The opinions of
our authors and invited guests may not coincide with those of the Editorial Board.
Exhibit V
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, In Simferopol honored the memory of the Hero of the Great
Patriotic War Vasily Gorishniy (7 May 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit V
Translation
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, In Simferopol honored the memory of the Hero of the Great
Patriotic War Vasyl Gorishniy (7 May 2022), available at:
https://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/article/show/14864.
pereyaslavskayarada.com
In Simferopol honored the memory of the Hero of the Great Patriotic War
Vasyl Gorishniy
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
The Day of the Fatherland’s Heroes is a date that combines the history of military exploits and
heroes of the Russian army from the day of its establishment to the present time. This public
holiday traces its history back to the 18th century. This date in December is dedicated to an
outstanding event that took place during the reign of Empress Catherine II – in 1769, she
established the Order of St. George the Victorious. At that time, this order was awarded to
officers and soldiers who had showed valour, courage and bravery in battles. After the October
Revolution of 1917, both the public holiday and the order were abolished. In 2007, Russian
parliamentarians proposed to revive this public holiday (which was then accomplished).
So, a commemorative event dedicated to Vasyl Akimovich Gorishniy, a Hero of the Soviet
Union, took place today in the Museum of the History of the City of Simferopol. The event was
held by his grandson, Vasyl Alexandrovich Gorishniy. During the event, the visitors learned
about the tragic days of the war period, the military victories, and the heroic deeds of their
famous countryman. A commemorative stand was also opened in his honour.
An outstanding Soviet military leader and a Hero of the Soviet Union, Vasyl Gorishniy was a
native of Ukraine. He held the ranks of Guards Major General and then Guards Lieutenant
Annex 10 Exhibit V
General and commanded the 75th Guards Rifle Division of the Central Front’s 60th Army’s 30th
Rifle Corps as at the time he was awarded the title of the Hero.
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
In addition, Islyam Useinov, Deputy Head of the Simferopol City Administration, made a
welcoming speech at the event. He noted the importance of this public holiday and thanked
Vasyl Gorishniy’s family for their efforts to preserve the memory of the Hero.
Anastasia Gridchina, the head of Ukrainian Community of Crimea, a regional public
organisation, also took part in the efforts to arrange for and hold the event. She gave to those
present an issue of Krym Syogodni [Crimea Today], a glossy cultural and educational magazine
in Ukrainian, containing an article about Vasyl Akimovich Gorishniy.
Nadezhda Ryndich, a well-known Crimean poetess and a member of Ukrainian Community of
Crimea, read a poem she wrote under the inspiration of the heroic image of the outstanding
military leader Vasyl Gorishniy.
Annex 10 Exhibit V
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
It should also be noted that it is on the Day of the Fatherland’s Heroes that Heroes of the Soviet
Union, Heroes of the Russian Federation, Full Cavaliers of the Order of Glory, and Cavaliers
of the Order of St. George are traditionally honoured. This public holiday is especially
important for Ukrainian Community of Crimea as it makes significant efforts to protect the
historical truth, culture, and patriotic education.
An opinion of the Editorial Board can only be voiced by the Editor-in-Chief. The opinions of
our authors and invited guests may not coincide with those of the Editorial Board.
Exhibit W
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Simferopol celebrated International Mother Language Day
(21 February 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit W
Translation
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Simferopol celebrated International Mother Language Day
(21 February 2022), available at: http://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/article/show/14177.
pereyaslavskayarada.com
Simferopol celebrated International Mother Language Day
Photo: Crimea Today News Agency
The Ukrainian Community of Crimea regional civil society organisation, together with the
Ivan Franko Crimea Republic Comprehensive Science Library, held an event dedicated to
the International Mother Language Day celebrated annually on the 21st of February.
The celebration was attended by representatives of national and cultural associations of the
Republic of Crimea such as Marina Geydyunas, a Crimean writer and member of the Ukrainian
Community of Crimea RSCO, Roman Chegrinets, Chairman of the Belorussians of Crimea
regional national-cultural autonomy (RNCA), Igor Klossovsky, a member of the Belorussians
of Crimea RNCA and a member of the Writers’ Union of the Republic of Crimea, Natalia
Lantukh, Deputy Chairwoman of the Russian Community of Crimea RSCO, and Lyudmila
Radeva, Deputy Chairwoman of the Bulgarian RNCA named after Paisius of Hilendar.
Language is a most powerful tool for preserving and enriching our material and spiritual
heritage. According to the UN, there are about 7,000 languages in the world, with more than
2,500 of them on the verge of extinction and may soon lose their last native speakers. Every
fortnight, the world loses one language and an entire cultural and intellectual heritage along
with it. That is why the International Mother Language Day was established some time ago.
At the beginning of the event, the audience was presented with a documentary about the
linguistic diversity of Russia and the world as a whole, emphasising the importance of the topic
Annex 10 Exhibit W
and stating some facts relating to the languages of the numerous peoples of our Homeland.
The event continued as a roundtable discussion, with each participant talking about the
peculiarities of his or her people’s language. The event was opened by Anastasia Gridchina,
Chairwoman of the Ukrainian Community of Crimea RSCO and Chairwoman of the Committee
on Interethnic and Interconfessional Relations and People’s Diplomacy of the Civic Chamber
of the Republic of Crimea.
“The Ukrainian language is one of the twenty most spoken languages in the world. Almost 43
million people on our planet call it their mother tongue,” Anastasia Sergeyevna stressed in her
speech.
She also reminded the audience about the common problem of the Slavic world – the transition
to a Latin-based alphabet, and how important it is to apply efforts to preserve the Cyrillic script.
This issue is especially tense in today’s Ukraine.
Annex 10 Exhibit W
The Ukrainian language is commonly recognised as one of the most melodic languages in the
world. In his turn, Roman Chegrinets, Chairman of the Council of the Belorussians of Crimea
RNCA, stated in his speech that, taking into account the kinship of Ukrainian and other Slavic
languages, the Belorussian language can also be named among the melodic languages of the
world. Natalia Lantukh, Deputy Chairwoman of the Russian Community of Crimea RSCO, told
the audience about some peculiarities of the Russian language.
During the event, the participants discussed problems pertaining to the preservation and
development of the native languages of the ethnic groups living in our Republic and in Russia.
In addition, everyone spoke about his or her mother tongue describing its lexical, phonetic and
stylistic features.
Annex 10 Exhibit W
Apart from the official speeches, the programme of the event included the recital of poems in
national languages. Igor Nikolaevich Klossovsky, a member of the Writers’ Union of the
Republic of Crimea, read his poems in Belorussian. The heritage of the Bulgarian language was
presented by the honoured cultural worker of the Republic of Crimea Zinovy Dmitrievich
Stoyanov. Poems in Ukrainian were read by a member of the Ukrainian Community of Crimea
RCSO, writer Marina Eduardovna Geydyunas, also known under her pen-name Marina Em.
In conclusion, it should be noted that any measures to help develop native languages promote
to linguistic diversity and multilingual education, help understand global linguistic and cultural
traditions as much as strengthen the solidarity based on mutual understanding, tolerance and
dialogue.
Annex 10 Exhibit W
An opinion of the Editorial Board can only be voiced by the Editor-in-Chief. The opinions of
our authors and invited guests may not coincide with those of the Editorial Board.
Exhibit X
Cross Stitching Lovers’ Club, Ukrainian Embroidery Exhibition Opens in Stary Krym
(18 October 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit X
Translation
Cross Stitching Lovers’ Club, Ukrainian Embroidery Exhibition Opens in Stary Krym
(18 October 2022), available at: http://www.cross-stitch-club.ru/nitka/2366-v-staromkrymu-
zarabotaet-vystavka-ukrainskoy-vyshivki.html.
CROSS STITCHING LOVERS’ CLUB
Ukrainian Embroidery Exhibition Opens in Stary Krym
Every little bit helps
18 October 2022, at 01:42 PM
On Friday, 21 June, a Ukrainian embroidery exhibition “Vera
Roik and Her Apprentices” is to open at the Literature and Arts
Museum in the town of Stary Krym with the support of the All-
Ukrainian Information and Cultural Centre.
The exhibition will showcase embroidered shirts (vyshyvankas),
towels, panels, napkins, rugs, a collection of thimbles of the
famous craftswoman Vera Roik, an honoured master of folk art
of Ukraine, honoured artist of the ARC, member of the National
Union of Artists of Ukraine, Hero of Ukraine.
Visitors of the exhibition will also be able to see the works of Mrs
Roik’s apprentices: Yulia Abramova, Elena Andreeva, Alina
Voronova, Evgenia Zhukova, Valentina Nosenko, Galina
Dmitrieva.
The exhibition will run until the 15th of August.
Exhibit Y
Crimean News Feed, Vera Roik Museum of Ukrainian Embroidery Celebrated Its
10th Anniversary (26 December 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit Y
Translation
Crimean News Feed, Vera Roik Museum of Ukrainian Embroidery Celebrated Its 10th
Anniversary (26 December 2022), available at: https://crimeanews.
com/culture/2022/12/26/1005338.html.
Crimean News Feed
Vera Roik Museum of Ukrainian Embroidery Celebrates Its Tenth
Anniversary
26 December 2022 at 05:50 PM
Culture
The Crimean Ethnographic Museum
hosted the “Pattern on Canvas” event
dedicated to the 10th anniversary of the
Vera Roik Museum of Ukrainian
Embroidery. The event was held
jointly with the Ukrainian Community
of Crimea regional civil society
organisation.
Lyudmila Naumenko, the host of the
event and Deputy Director of the
Crimean Ethnographic Museum, welcomed the audience pointing out how important it had
been to establish the Museum of Ukrainian Embroidery.
The event began with a musical greeting from the Poyuschie Serdtsa [Singing Hearts] vocal
band (led by Alexander Dudorov) who performed songs in Russian and Ukrainian.
Sergey Patrushev, Head of the Department of Museums, Libraries and Cultural Education,
spoke on behalf of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Crimea stressing the significant
role of the Museum of Ukrainian Embroidery in preserving the history and culture of Ukrainians
in Crimea.
Ruslan Yakubov, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Interethnic Relations of the
Republic of Crimea, made a welcoming speech and congratulated the museum and the
Ukrainian community, noting the community’s active efforts in preserving and popularising
Ukrainian culture in the region.
The event was continued by Natalia Filippova, Head of the Museum’s Research Department,
who told how the collection of Ukrainian culture objects was put together in 2018-2022.
Anastasia Gridchina, Chairwoman of the Ukrainian Community of Crimea regional civil
society organisation, made a welcoming speech, thanked the museum staff for their fruitful
cooperation, and awarded certificates of honour to the Crimean Ethnographic Museum and
members of the local and regional Ukrainian community of Crimea. The museum was donated
some interesting exhibits that would make a great addition to the museum’s permanent and
Annex 10 Exhibit Y
temporary exhibitions: a bandura, a spinning wheel, and textile items.
Nadezhda Ryndych, Deputy Chairwoman of the Ukrainian community of Crimea, read some
of her own poetry.
At the end of the event, the Kumushki vocal band (led by Galina Navrotskaya) performed
traditional Ukrainian and Russian folk songs.
FOR REFERENCE: The Museum of Ukrainian Embroidery was established in 2012 as part of
the Crimean Ethnographic Museum on the basis of a collection of Ukrainian culture objects
held at the Ethnographic Museum and a collection of embroidery items by Vera Roik.
The Vera Roik Museum of Ukrainian Embroidery currently has three exhibition areas: the hall
titled "The History of Ukrainian Embroidery – from the Creation of a Canvas to the Finished
Product", the celebrated embroiderer’s memorial room, and an exhibition of works by modern
Crimean embroiderers.
The Vera Roik Museum of Ukrainian Embroidery has become the spot where events related to
the popularization of decorative and applied arts of the Eastern Slavs are held, such as: the
Vera Roik Republican Biennale of East Slavic Folk Embroidery “Patterns on Canvas", the
"Towel for T. Shevchenko’s 200th birthday anniversary” project, and various thematic events
dedicated to the life of and work of Vera Roik.
Press office of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Crimea
Exhibit Z
Dzhankoy in the Lens, “Pattern on the Canvas” by Dzhankoy residents / Biennale-2022
(25 November 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit Z
Translation
Dzhankoy in the Lens, “Pattern on the Canvas” from Dzhankoy residents / Biennale-2022
(25 November 2022), available at: https://inlens24.ru/uzor-na-polotne-ot-dzhankoytsevbiennale-
krym.html.
inlens24.ru
“Pattern on the Canvas” from Dzhankoy Residents / Biennale-2022
Friday, 25 November 2022
By Elena Shalaeva
Results of Fifth Republican Biennale of East Slavic Folk Embroidery Pattern on Canvas
Named After Vera Roik Announced in Crimea
25 beautiful works by embroiderers from Dzhankoy representing the Fantasy club of the town’s
Culture and Leisure Centre were shown at the Pattern on Canvas biennale.
Pattern on Canvas, Dzhankoy 2022
A Place where Creative Artists Meet
The formal award ceremony in honour of the winners of the Fifth Republican Biennale of East
Slavic folk embroidery Patterns on Canvas named after Vera Roik took place at the Crimean
Ethnographic Museum. According to tradition, the biennale is held by the Ministry of Culture
of the Republic of Crimea in cooperation with the Crimean Ethnographic Museum state-funded
institution of the Republic of Crimea in order to preserve, develop and popularise Russian,
Ukrainian and Belorussian folk embroidery and folk art in general.
Participants of the Pattern on Canvas biennale
Annex 10 Exhibit Z
Lyudmila Naumenko, Deputy Director of the Crimean Ethnographic Museum, greeted project
participants and museum visitors, thanked the embroidery craftmasters for preserving the East
Slavic embroidery traditions of their ancestors.
What Is a Bienniale?
A bienniale is an exhibition that takes place every two years, has an approved concept and is
competitive by its nature. It has already become a kind of an All-Crimean embroidery talent
show where modern trends are discovered and traditions are strengthened.
If the authors agree, their best works can be accepted to replenish the collection of the Crimean
Ethnographic Museum. The exhibition has been actively used to popularise and develop folk
art traditions in the modern decorative and applied arts of Crimea.
The Cherished Name of Vera Roik
Lyudmila Naumenko opened the large-scale exhibition reminding once again about the
indisputably important role played by Vera Roik in folk embroidery promotion and
popularisation in Crimea. A well-known collector and keeper of embroidery patterns of the
peoples of the world, Vera Roik acquired a large number of various titles during her long and
fruitful life. She was an honoured folk art craftmaster of Ukraine, an honoured artist of the
Autonomous Republic of Crimea, and an honorary resident of the city of Simferopol.
Vera Roik’s patterns on canvas
The unique craftswoman devoted more than 90 years of her life to embroidery, taught to her by
her mother. Vera Roik mastered 300 kinds of stitches perfectly! She used most of them along
with traditional Ukrainian embroidery skills to create the portfolio of her works.
Annex 10 Exhibit Z
Some of these works were acquired as assets by museums in various parts of the world during
her lifetime. Now they are exhibited in more than 30 museums worldwide, and deservedly so.
After all, Vera Roik’s entire career in embroidery was a real feat.
It began in the town of Lubny where she was born and spent her childhood. As a teenager, she
took up a needle for the first time to earn her living. It was in Lubny before the beginning of
the Great Patriotic War where she married Mikhail Roik and gave birth to a son. The mother
and her son shared the same small homeland, their native town of Lubny in the Poltava Region.
The young Vera showed here first works at the 1936 All-Union Exhibition in Moscow. A large
part of her life and creative career was spent in the capital of Crimea, Simferopol, where Vera
Roik lived with her family from 1952 until the end of her life.
Thousands of the Crimean needlewoman’s artwork items have been admired all over the world
for many decades.
Patterns on Canvas Brings People Together
The atmosphere at the meeting was emotionally warm, creatively uplifting, and mutually
enriching.
The exhibition ceremony was attended by Sergey Patrushev, Head of the Department of
Museums, Libraries and Cultural Education of the Ministry of Culture of Crimea, Anastasia
Gridchina, Chairwoman of the Ukrainian Community of Crimea, Roman Chegrinets, Chairman
of the Belorussian community of Crimea, and Elena Ryumina, a granddaughter of the
outstanding embroiderer.
Annex 10 Exhibit Z
Galina Kobernik, a craftswoman from Dzhankoy, took part in the Patterns on Canvas
exhibition
The staffers of the Museum presented awards to the winners in several competition categories.
The Kumushki vocal band performed folk songs at the ceremonial event.
As the panel of judges of the competition had decided, some of the awards were given to
craftmasters from Dzhankoy. The first prize in the “Creative Imagination and Ingenuity”
category was awarded to Galina Kobernik.
Annex 10 Exhibit Z
Olga Velichko, a participant of the exhibition
Olga Velichko took the second prize in the “Preservation of East Slavic Traditional Embroidery
in Clothes” category.
Annex 10 Exhibit Z
Tatiana Fialkovskaya, a participant of the exhibition
A prize in the “Preservation of Traditional Ornamental Motifs and Symbols” category was
awarded to Zaryana Malysheva. Tatiana Fialkovskaya received a special prize from the jury.
Annex 10 Exhibit Z
Zaryana Malysheva, a participant of the exhibition
The works of embroiderers from Dzhankoy representing the Fantasy Club of the town’s Culture
and Leisure Centre were shown at the East Slavic embroidery exhibition in the Crimean
Ethnographic Museum.
We would like to congratulate our craftmasters on yet another creative victory.
We wish them the inspiration needed to create new masterpieces!
Exhibit AA
The Civic Chamber of the Republic of Crimea, Obzhinki-2021 Ukrainian Culture Festival
Held in Crimea (30 June 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit AA
Translation
The Civic Chamber of the Republic of Crimea, Obzhinki-2021 Ukrainian Culture Festival
Held in Crimea (30 August 2021), available at: https://opcrimea.ru/novosti/v-krymuproshel-
festival-ukrainskoj-kultury-obzhinki-2021.html.
The Civic Chamber of the Republic of Crimea
NEWS
30 August 2021
Obzhinki-2021 Ukrainian Culture Festival Held in Crimea
The 28th of August was the closing day of the Fifth Annual Festival of Ukrainian Culture
Obzhinki-2021 organised by Anastasia Gridchina, Chairwoman of the Committee on
Interethnic and Interconfessional Relations and People's Diplomacy of the Civic Chamber
of the Republic of Crimea.
The festival was held as part of the Days of Ukrainian Culture.
“The Obzhinki-2021 Ukrainian traditional holiday has long been loved by Crimeans. For those
Ukrainians who are striving to support and augment their native culture, it is greatly important
that the number of festival participants grows every year. Ukrainian culture is not alien to
Crimea; festival guests were eager to take part in contests, they listened to Ukrainian folk songs
and sang along”, says Anastasia Gridchina.
Annex 10 Exhibit AA
The Ukrainian flavour made the holiday an event to remember, truly summertime, lively and
as bright as August. Folk amusements, Ukrainian songs and folk dances, picturesque photo
zones, an exhibition of works by decorative and applied arts craftsmen, a theatrical show with
some elements of Ukrainian rituals and traditions: all these have brought colourful and
unforgettable emotions for the guests and participants of the event!
As Chairwoman of the Ukrainian Community of Crimea, Anastasia Gridchina wrote in her
social networks that two members of the community had been commended by the State Council
of the Republic of Crimea and the State Committee for Interethnic Relations of the Republic of
Crimea.
Annex 10 Exhibit AA
Speaking on behalf of the Crimean Civic Chamber, Anastasia Gridchina expressed her gratitude
to everyone who took part in organising the event, to all Crimeans and guests of the peninsula,
to members of the Ukrainian Community of Crimea and to volunteers. She expressed her
special thanks to the leaders of the Peoples’ Friendship House for their top-level organisation
of the holiday, and for the creative and responsible approach they displayed when running the
event.
Exhibit AB
MirInfo, Obzhinki 2022. Crimea celebrated the harvest festival (28 August 2022)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit AB
Translation
MirInfo, Obzhinki-2022: Crimea celebrated the harvest festival (28 August 2022), available
at: https://mir-info.com/community/obzhinki-2022-v-krymu-otmetili-prazdnik-urozhaja.
Obzhinki-2022: Crimea celebrated the harvest festival
28 August 2022
The Sixth Obzhinki Festival of Ukrainian Culture was held in Saki, Crimea. According to
tradition, when the last sheaf of wheat was reaped, the participants of the event wished each
other prosperity, wealth and happiness, as well as a generous harvest next year.
Annex 10 Exhibit AB
Ruslan Yakubov, First Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Interethnic Relations of
the Republic of Crimea, Ivan Shonus, Deputy Chairman of the Committee for People’s
Diplomacy and Interethnic Relations of the State Council of Crimea, Elizaveta Glushchenko,
Deputy Minister of Internal Policy, Information and Communications of the Republic of
Crimea, Arsen Ametov, Deputy Head of Administration of the town of Saki and Head of the
Department of Interethnic Relations, and Anastasia Gridchina, Chairwoman of the Ukrainian
Community of Crimea RCSO, congratulated the guests on this Slavic holiday.
Annex 10 Exhibit AB
The Obzhinki is traditionally celebrated on the day of birth of the Ukrainian writer Ivan Franko.
Slavic song and dance groups, solo performers, decorative and applied arts craftsmen
participated in the celebration. Guests of the festivities took part in traditional Ukrainian folk
amusements and contests, receiving awards for good knowledge of Ukrainian traditions.
Annex 10 Exhibit AB
As part of the celebrations, the most active members of the Ukrainian Community of Crimea
were awarded with certificates of honour.
The event was organised by the Ukrainian Community of Crimea, the State Committee for
Interethnic Relations of the Republic of Crimea and the People’s Friendship House with
assistance from the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Crimea.
Exhibit AC
The Civic Chamber of the Republic of Crimea, A concert in memory of V.A. Gorishny, Hero
of the Soviet Union, was held in Simferopol (31 January 2023)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit AC
Translation
The Civic Chamber of the Republic of Crimea, A concert in memory of V.A. Gorishny, Hero
of the Soviet Union, was held in Simferopol (31 January 2023), available at:
https://opcrimea.ru/novosti/v-simferopole-proshyol-koncert-v-pamyat-o-geroe-sssr-v.a.-
gorishnem.html.
On the 30th of January, Ukrainian Community of Crimea and Anastasia Gridchina, its
Chairwoman and Chair of the Commission on Interethnic and Interfaith Relations and
Public Diplomacy of the Civic Chamber of the Republic of Crimea, held a patriotic concert
dedicated to the 120th anniversary of the birthday of Vasily Gorishny, a Hero of the Soviet
Union.
The event was held in the Ivan Franko Crimean Republican Universal Scientific Library.
As Mrs Gridchina explained, the name of Vasily Gorishny is of particular importance for
Ukrainian Community of Crimea, so it has been preserving and popularising his memory for
many years. Community’s members make significant efforts to protect the historical truth,
culture and patriotic education among the youth of the Republic of Crimea.
The concert included patriotic songs and poems of support to the defenders on the front line. A
publication titled “One Victory for All: 1941-1945” was also presented. After all, Victory is a
word that has no nationality and is beyond time and space.
“It is very pleasant that our friends from national and cultural autonomies and the State
Committee for Interethnic Relations of the Republic of Crimea came today to congratulate us on
such an important and significant event – the 120th anniversary of the birthday of Vasily
Gorishny”, Mrs Gridchina said.
Annex 10 Exhibit AC
In conclusion, she thanked employees of House of Peoples’ Friendship, a state budgetary
institution of the Republic of Crimea, for their help in preparing and holding the concert.
Exhibit AD
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Magazines (25 January 2023)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit AD
Translation
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Magazines (25 January 2023), available at:
https://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/magazine-newspaper/magazine/view-all.
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0
Home > Magazines
Magazines
The Krym Syogodni
[Crimea Today] magazine,
No. 3 (2022)
The Krym Syogodni
[Crimea Today] magazine,
No. 2 (2022)
The Krym Syogodni
[Crimea Today] magazine,
No. 1 (2022)
The Krym Syogodni
[Crimea Today] magazine,
No. 3 (2021)
The Krym Syogodni
[Crimea Today] magazine,
No. 2 (2021)
The Krym Syogodni
[Crimea Today] magazine,
No. 1 (2021)
The Krym Syogodni The Krym Syogodni The Krym Syogodni
Annex 10 Exhibit AD
[Crimea Today] magazine,
No. 3 (2020)
[Crimea Today] magazine,
No. 2 (2020)
[Crimea Today] magazine,
No. 1 (2020)
Exhibit AE
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Newspapers (25 January 2023)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit AE
Translation
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Newspapers (25 January 2023), available at:
https://pereyaslavskayarada.com/ru/magazine-newspaper/newspaper/view-all.
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0
Home > Newspapers
Newspapers
The Krimsky Visnyk
[Crimean Herald]
newspaper, No. 3 (2022)
The Krimsky Visnyk
[Crimean Herald]
newspaper, No. 2 (2022)
The Krimsky Visnyk
[Crimean Herald]
newspaper, No. 1 (2022)
The Krimsky Visnyk
[Crimean Herald]
newspaper, No. 4 (2021)
The Krimsky Visnyk
[Crimean Herald]
newspaper, No. 3 (2021)
The Krimsky Visnyk
[Crimean Herald]
newspaper, No. 2 (2021)
The Krimsky Visnyk
[Crimean Herald]
newspaper, No. 1 (2021)
The Krimsky Visnyk
[Crimean Herald]
newspaper, No. 2 (2020)
The Krimsky Visnyk
[Crimean Herald]
newspaper, No. 1 (2020)
Exhibit AF
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Home Page (25 January 2023)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit AF
Translation
Pereyaslavskaya Rada 2.0, Home Page (25 January 2023), available at:
https://pereyaslavskayarada.com/.
Crimea Celebrates Pereyaslavskaya Rada’s 369th Anniversary
18 January 2023
Personal Opinion
Vadim Volchenko:
Crimea is ahead of Russia’s other regions in terms of the number of certified guides
Vadim Volchenko,
Minister of Resorts and Tourism of the Republic of Crimea
Exhibit AG
Government of the Republic of Crimea, Administrative Division (updated on 23 April 2018)
(translation)
Annex 10 Exhibit AG
Translation
Government of the Republic of Crimea, Administrative Division (updated on 23 April 2018),
available at: https://rk.gov.ru/ru/structure/936.
Government of the Republic of Crimea
Head of the Republic of Crimea
Government of the Russian Federation
Official Resources
GOVERNMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF CRIMEA
Official Web Portal
25 February, Saturday
ONLINE RECEPTION
Government of the Republic of Crimea > About the Republic of Crimea > Administrative
Division
Administrative Division
Being part of the Southern Federal District of the Russian Federation, the Republic of Crimea
consists of 25 administrative and territorial units, including 14 districts (with a predominantly
rural population), and 11 cities and towns of republican subordination, which contain municipal
formations with subordinate settlements – urban districts (with a predominantly urban
population). In total, there are 1,019 settlements in the Republic of Crimea, including 16 cities
and towns, 56 urban settlements, and 947 villages and settlements.
Annex 10 Exhibit AG
Annex 11
Witness Statement of , 22 February 2023
(translation)
Annex 11
INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE
APPLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION
FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF THE FINANCING OF TERRORISM AND
OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON THE ELIMINATION OF ALL
FORMS OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION
(UKRAINE V. RUSSIAN FEDERATION)
WITNESS STATEMENT
OF
22 FEBRUARY 2023
Annex 11
Page 2 out of 10
Annex 11
Page 5 out of 10
10. After I became involved in business, I began to realise that the leaders of the Mejlis did
not perceive it as a socially useful organisation, but rather as their business structure
generating significant income for them. Sometimes this income was apparently
generated by money collected to help the Crimean Tatars, although the Crimean Tatars
never saw the results of these collections, continuing to live in uninhabitable conditions
without sewage, water and heat in the barracks they built themselves. Of course, in this
case, the Mejlis’s lack of legal personality (and thus the obligation to keep any
documentation) may have helped those concerned to conceal where the Mejlis directs
its finances, including those received from ordinary Crimeans.
11. I subsequently learned that during the Mejlis’s tenure, Mustafa Dzhemilev and some
other members of the Mejlis were able to make a large fortune by embezzling funds
received by the Mejlis for humanitarian aid to Crimean Tatars and money allocated by
businessmen and using the Mejlis (and its opaque financial structure) as a cover for
illegal operations.2 In particular, a Crimea Development Fund was established through
which events involving Mustafa Dzhemilev were sponsored. Dzhemilev himself was
repeatedly accused of embezzling budgetary funds allocated for the development of
programmes for Crimean Tatars.3 All this, of course, has meant that the Mejlis does not
represent Crimean Tatars, but merely makes a fortune for itself.
12. The Mejlis has also been repeatedly shadowed for organising assassinations of Crimean
Tatars who disagreed with the policies pursued by the Mejlis. One of them was Yury
Bekirovich Usmanov, the founder and leader of the National Movement of the Crimean
Tatars, who dedicated his life to their return to their historic homeland, but who
repeatedly criticised Mustafa Dzhemilev and was murdered in 1993.4
2 Zn,ua, Authoritarian Democracy (26 December 1997), available at:
https://zn.ua/politcs_archive/avtoritarnaya_demokratiya html (Приложение B). New Day, Budget money for
settling Crimean Tatars went to a Western company (17 November 2011), available at:
https://newdaynews.ru/crimea/358513 html (Exhibit C).
3 LiveJournal, Thieves' Majlis (20 June 2019), available at: https://george-ivashov.livejournal.com/102725 html
(Exhibit D).
4 Taurica.net, The forgotten leader of the Crimean Tatar people - Dzhemilev's deceased opponent in the early
1990s (9 December 2016), available a: https://taurica net/238739-Zabytyiy-lider-krymsko-tatarskogo-narodapogibshiiy-
protivnik-Dzhemileva-v-nachale-90-h html (Exhibit E).
Annex 11
Page 7 out of 10
was a shortage of petrol, which was purchased in large quantities to fuel generators, and
internet and phone communications worked irregularly.7
19. Lenur Islyamov, a supporter of Mustafa Dzhemilev and Refat Chubarov and owner of
the ATR television company, played an active role in organising the blockades.8 He not
only financially and organisationally supported the blockade of Crimea, but also aired
programmes on his channel that incited inter-ethnic discord and motivated the
continuation of blockades and other restrictions against Crimea. He may have tried to
obtain money from the Ukrainian authorities to cover the debts of his companies to
creditors, including those in Crimea. After ATR stopped broadcasting in Crimea and
moved to Ukraine, as I understand it, the money was never returned to them.
20. All the blockades, including those organised by the Mejlis, have also been supported by
Ukraine itself. Ukraine has always tried to escalate the conflict between ethnic groups
on the peninsula according to the “divide and rule” principle. The Crimean Tatars have
been and still are an instrument of political pressure. The aforementioned blockades
have only confirmed this. Of course, depriving Crimeans of heat and food could cause
nothing but negativity towards the Mejlis. The Crimean Tatars found it difficult to
understand why those who were supposed to solve the problems of the Tatars were on
the contrary making their lives worse.
21. Thus, all of the above activities are obviously frowned upon, both by me and by many
Crimean Tatars. In my opinion, not only is the Mejlis unable to represent the Crimean
Tatar community now, it did not represent it before 2014 as wel. The methods used by
the Mejlis leaders, their ineffectual work for more than 20 years, their attempts to
intimidate the authorities and sometimes their fellow countrymen - all this definitely
confirms that the Mejlis has never really cared about the interests of the Crimean Tatars.
7 NTS, As It Was: The Energy Blockade of Crimea and Sevastopol Begins Two Years Ago (22 November 2017),
available at: https://nts-tv.com/news/kak-eto-bylo-dva-goda-nazad-nachalas-energeticheskaya-blokada-kryma-isevastopolya-
3225/ (Exhibit J).
8ATR, Islyamov on Crimea blockade: If all of Ukraine had joined it, the occupation would already be over (21
September 2018), available at: https://atr.ua/news/178326-islamov-o-blokade-kryma-esli-by-k-nej-prisoedinilasvsa-
ukraina-okkupacia-by-uze-zakoncilas (Exhibit K).
Annex 11
Page 8 out of 10
B. CRIMEA'S ACCESSION TO THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
22. I was directly involved in organising the referendum on Crimea's reunification with the
Russian Federation. For example, in February 2014, I was able to hold teleconferences
with various cities and republics of the Russian Federation, where their representatives
shared information about all kinds of programmes that would be possible in Crimea,
including programmes for the development of the Crimean Tatar community.
23. In addition, I worked at the polling station during the referendum itself. I saw many
Crimean Tatars who came and voted in the referendum. The entire population was eager
to express their vote, there were even queues of 50-60 people at the polling stations,
which had never happened before.
24. That day was a real celebration, I remember the warm attitude of people towards each
other and the joy we felt that day. People went to the referendum with their whole
families. My family also came to the polling station. My father celebrated Crimea's
reunification with Russia for a month, setting off fireworks. In my eyes, it all expressed
people's sincere desire: everyone wanted change, change and reunification with the
Russian Federation.
25. I and my family were among the first to receive Russian passports. I have not heard of
anyone I know having difficulties if they wanted to refuse to take Russian citizenship
and stay with Ukrainian passports. However, almost all Crimeans, including Crimean
Tatars, sought a Russian passport.
C. UKRAINIAN AND RUSSIAN POLICIES IN CRIMEA
26. I returned to Crimea with my family in the nineties. I remember that when we returned,
Ukraine did not educate the population living in Crimea that Crimean Tatars were not
enemies to other residents of the peninsula, and that they could and should co-exist in
peace and harmony. This led to the older generation not being hired and not being
provided with plots of land for housing. In order to survive, people were forced to squat
on land, building houses for themselves on wasteland. There were also frequent cases of
violence between Crimean Tatars and representatives of other nationalities, which the
Ukrainian authorities did not try to resolve.
Annex 11
Page 9 out of 10
27. The above state of affairs is a great omission of Ukrainian politics, whose figures were
against our return, despite the fact that the USSR itself allowed us to come to Crimea.
28. Apart from that, I remember that Crimean Tatars were always promised to improve
their living conditions, but this never came to fruition. Over more than 20 years, only a
small number of settlements where Crimean Tatars have settled have been gasified. For
a long time, there were no communications, no electricity or kindergartens built in the
settlements. There were no buses to our settlements, and as a child I had to walk to and
from school in freezing temperatures and through heavy snowdrifts.
29. After the reunification of Crimea with Russia, the Russian authorities began to
implement positive changes on the peninsula in relation to the Crimean Tatars. For
instance, Vladimir Putin signed a decree on the rehabilitation of the Crimean Tatar
people,9 confirming that the Crimean Tatars are part of the Russian Federation and its
people. We have built and continue to build schools, kindergartens, roads,
communications, and the construction of a cathedral mosque, which we were promised
back under Ukraine for more than 20 years, but nothing has been done. We appreciate
that our holy Muslim holidays, such as Eid-al-Fatir and Eid al-Adha, have become days
off.
30. I cannot help noting that much, of course, depends on the actions of the Crimean Tatars
themselves, because, in my opinion, the Crimean Tatars should be directly involved in
all political, economic and cultural processes of the republic, work more in the state
authorities. This also applies to the Crimean Tatar language. In order for our language
to function more, Crimean Tatars themselves need to speak it more first and foremost.
Now they use Russian more often in their speech, even within their families.
31. In general, as a Crimean Tatar living in Crimea, I strongly disagree with the assertion
that Crimean Tatars are discriminated against here. On the contrary, the Russian
authorities provide comprehensive support to Crimean Tatars and other ethnic
minorities on the peninsula.
9 Decree of the President of the Russian Federation No. 268 “On measures aimed at rehabilitation of Armenian,
Bulgarian, Greek, Italian, Crimean Tatar and German peoples and state support of their revival and
development”, 21 April 2014, available at: http://static.kremlin ru/media/acts/files/0001201404210070.pdf. See.:
Counter-Memorial (CERD), Annex 63.
Annex 11
LIST OF EXHIBITS
Number:
Exhibit A
Exhibit B
Exhibit C
Exhibit D
Exhibit E
Exhibit F
Exhibit G
Exhibit H
Exhibit I
Exhibit J
Exhibit K
Name of exhibit:
TASS, Rada passes law on Indigenous Peoples of Ukraine, which does not
include Russians (1 July 2021).
Zn.ua, Authoritarian Democracy (26 December 1997).
New Day, Budget money for settling Crimean Tatars went to a Western
company (17 November 2011).
LiveJournal, Thieves' Mejlis (20 June 2019).
Taurica.net, The forgotten leader of the Crimean Tatar people -
Dzhemilev's deceased opponent in the early 1990s (9 December 2016).
Crimean Newswire, Alleged Missing and Real Murders (23 December
2014).
RIA Novosti (Crimea), Organisers of Crimea blockade suspected of
involvement in murder (4 December 2015).
RIA Novosti (Crimea), Right Sector decides to launch "energy blockade"
of Crimea (12 October 2015).
Political Navigator, Mejlis claims open terrorist activity (21 October
2015).
NTS, As It Was: The Energy Blockade of Crimea and Sevastopol Begins
Two Years Ago (22 November 2017).
ATR, Islyamov on Crimea blockade: If all of Ukraine had joined it, the
occupation would already be over (21 September 2018).
Exhibit A
TASS, Rada passes law on Indigenous Peoples of Ukraine, which does not include
Russians (1 July 2021)
(translation)
Annex 11 Exhibit A
Translation
TASS, Rada passes law on Indigenous Peoples of Ukraine, which does not include Russians
(1 July 2021), available at: https://tass.ru/mezhdunarodnaya-panorama/11801189.
https://tass ru/mezhdunarodnaya-panorama/11801189
Rada passes law on Indigenous Peoples of
Ukraine, which does not include Russians
TASS
KIEV, 1 July. /TASS/. A law initiated by Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky on the
indigenous peoples of Ukraine that does not designate Russians as such, has been passed by
the Verkhovnaya Rada. On Thursday, 325 deputies voted for it, which is a constitutional
majority. Just one minute earlier the document had been approved in the first reading by
331 votes.
"The draft act provides a definition of an 'indigenous people of Ukraine,' according to which
it is an autochthonous (indigenous by origin - TASS) ethnic community which was formed
on the territory of Ukraine, is a bearer of an original language and culture, has traditional,
social, cultural or representative bodies, perceives itself as an indigenous people of Ukraine,
constitutes an ethnic minority within its population and has no state entity of its own
outside Ukraine. According to this definition, the draft act proposes to establish that the
indigenous peoples of Ukraine are Crimean Tatars, Karaites, and Krymchaks," the
explanatory note to the document says.
Such definition indicates that Russians in Ukraine cannot be considered an indigenous
people.
The law was not supported by any MPs of the Opposition Platform - For Life (OPFL) party.
Parliamentarians from the ruling party ‘Servant of the People’ accounted for 226 votes, the
European Solidarity party, whose leader is former Ukrainian President Petr Poroshenko - 25
votes, former Prime Minister Yuliya Timoshenko's Fatherland - 19 votes, the parliamentary
group ‘For the Future’ - 18 votes, the Golos (Voice) party - 15 votes and the parliamentary
group Doveriye (Trust) – 13 votes. The document was also supported by nine unaffiliated
MPs.
The law defines the legal status of the indigenous peoples of Ukraine and establishes legal
guarantees for the possession of all human rights and fundamental freedoms established by
international and national law.
"The implementation of the provisions of the draft Law will contribute to ensuring the right
of indigenous peoples of Ukraine to self-determination, independent determination of their
political status, free exercise of their economic, social and cultural development in ways that
do not contradict the Constitution and laws of Ukraine," the explanatory note says.
In addition, according to the Law, indigenous peoples are protected from actions aimed at:
deprivation of signs of ethnic affiliation, deprivation of cultural values, "eviction or forced
displacement from places of compact residence in any form,” "forced assimilation or forced
integration in any form," incitement of racial, ethnic or religious hatred against them. They
are also guaranteed cultural, educational, linguistic and information rights.
The president's initiative was linked to Crimea's accession to Russia, as well as to
accusations against the latter of allegedly violating the rights of indigenous peoples living on
the peninsula.
Annex 11 Exhibit A
Criticism by Moscow
On 18 May, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky announced that a bill on the country's
indigenous peoples, among which Russians were not disignated, had been submitted to the
Verkhovnaya Rada. The initiative was harshly criticised in Russia. President Vladimir Putin
said in an interview aired by the Rossiya 24 TV channel that the document on indigenous
peoples did not comply with international humanitarian law. The head of state said that
calling Russians non-indigenous people of Ukraine was "not just incorrect but ridiculous
and stupid", that such a position was completely inconsistent with history and that Kiev's
idea to declare Russians non-indigenous in Ukraine dealt a powerful and very serious blow
to the Russian people. The consequences of passing the bill, in his opinion, would be
comparable to a weapon of mass destruction.
The Russian Orthodox Church also criticised the document, calling it nonsense to exclude
Russians from the list of Ukraine's indigenous peoples and suggesting that such a decision
could undermine Ukraine's stability and integrity.
At the same time, Moscow is not considering the option of mirror measures to Kiev's move.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said that the issue of Ukraine's
indigenous peoples had been put on all international platforms and was being actively
considered there in contact with the leadership of international agencies. She stressed that
the initiative discriminated against millions of Russians.
On 11 June, Russian human rights commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova said that Zelensky's
draft law grossly violated the rights of the Russian-speaking population and called on the
UN and Council of Europe official representatives to react to this initiative. On 17 June,
Russian permanent representative to the OSCE Alexander Lukashevich said that the OSCE
had "no principled reaction to discrimination in Ukraine" and drew the organisation's
attention "to the resolution passed by the Russian parliamentarians on 2 June 2021 with an
appeal to the international community, as well as the statement of the State Duma of 8 June
2021 expressing concern about the discriminatory nature of the current Ukrainian
authorities' legislative initiatives aimed at exacerbating tensions and conflicts both inside
and outside Ukraine." In Lukashevich's opinion, the lack of response in the OSCE sends the
wrong signal to Kiev that such a detrimental line can continue.
Kiev denies discrimination
The Ukrainian authorities reject accusations of discrimination against Russians in the law
on indigenous people. In particular, this statement was made by the deputy prime minister
for non-government-controlled territories Aleksey Reznikov. Arguing his position, Reznikov
noted that the concept of "indigenous peoples" was enshrined in the Ukrainian constitution
in 1996. He pointed out Kiev's main argument on this issue - that "the concepts of
'indigenous peoples' and 'national minorities' are not identical."
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitriy Kuleba later said that the rights of Russians as a
national minority are "protected by the constitution on an equal basis with others" and they
allegedly cannot be an indigenous people "because they have their own state."
Exhibit B
Zn.ua, Authoritarian Democracy (26 December 1997)
(translation)
Annex 11 Exhibit B
Translation
ZN.UA, Authoritarian democracy (26 December 1997), available at:
https://zn.ua/politcs_archive/avtoritarnaya_demokratiya.html.
AUTHORITARIAN DEMOCRACY
Nikolai Semena
The split in the Crimean Tatar national movement at the Qurultay
has not been overcome, but has only worsened, its veterans believe…
Last week in Simferopol an extraordinary session of the third Qurultay of the Crimean
Tatars considered the crisis in the Mejlis. Addressing the Qurultay sixteen of its
delegates raised the issue that "a group of unscrupulous businessmen is trying to turn
the Mejlis into a "political cover" for their illegal operations related to the
embezzlement of budgetary funds allocated for the Program for the Return and
Settlement of the Crimean Tatar People". Even after the Qurultay, Lenur Arifov stated
that "reaction and authoritarianism have settled in the Mejlis" and that the Mejlis and
the Qurultay "have turned into bodies serving the interests of one person and persons
close to him." "Now what young Mustafa once fought against, he is implementing in
the body he heads," L. Arifov concluded.
People sympathetic to the Crimean Tatars took the news of the split with pain. After
all, the Crimean Tatar national movement has been fighting for the ideals of
democracy for the last several decades of its history. So what happened? Aisha
Seitmuratova, a veteran of the movement, described the incident as "Stalinism,"
telling a correspondent of "Zerkalo Nedeli" and other journalists the following:
"Mustafa is our national hero. He stood up to the pressure of the authorities and KGB,
this terrible machine. Not everyone stood up to it. But Mustafa - alas! - is not a leader,
with all my respect to him. Not every hero can be a leader and not every leader can be
a hero...". According to her, in her New York office (Ayshe Hanum is an American
citizen) there's a letter written in 1989 by Izzet Hairov, a member of the movement
who was expelled from the Mejlis during this Qurultay: "Mustafa is no longer the one
for whom we fought. I do not understand what happened to him. Mustafa will lead
the people to a precipice, from which we all the people will not get out...". Naturally,
not everything in this story is as straightforward as it seems at first glance. All the
more so because we are talking about quite influential people in Crimea. According to
the poll, conducted by the Crimean independent center of political researchers and
journalists, Mustafa Dzhemilev was the tenth most influential person in the past year,
Lilya Budzhurova - the 18th and Lenur Arifov - the 22nd. However, Refat Chubarov
shared 3-4th place, and Nadir Bekirov - 19th-20th. To understand the problem, let's
listen to both sides of the argument…
Crisis, split
or revolt?
Sixteen delegates, ideologically led by the Deputy Prime Minister of the autonomy,
one of the leaders of the national faction in the Crimean parliament Lenur Arifov and
journalist Lilya Budzhurova, stated that "the Mejlis chairman with all his authority
and direct actions created the conditions in which these embezzlements were possible.
The economic and financial instruments of embezzlement of budgetary funds were
Annex 11 Exhibit B
Imdat Bank and the "Crimea" Public Fund... the president of which is the chairman of
the Mejlis...". Sixteen delegates of the Qurultay stated that "the Fund "Crimea",
having received 800 thousand grivnas from the state budget to help individual
developers - our compatriots, has been keeping this money in its "pockets" for more
than two years, condemning many hundreds of people to live in dugouts or unfinished
houses. And this is just one example..."
In the report, which Lenur Arifov was not allowed to read to the end, he stated that
having discovered the embezzlement, members of the Mejlis demanded that the
account of the Capital development administration of State Committee on Interethnic
Relations of the Republic of Crimea, where the money was transferred by Kiev, be
transferred to another bank. But contrary to their expectations, Mustafa Dzhemilev
not only did not agree to this, but refused to sign and hindered the implementation of
the decisions made by the majority of the Mejlis. And the shortage of funds in the
Imdat Bank account at the beginning of the outgoing year was already about 2 million
grivnas and continued to grow. Lenur Arifov drew a clear scheme according to which
the bank, the State Committee on Interethnic Relations of the Republic of Crimea and
commercial structures acted - the budget funds from the accounts of the Capital
development administration were transferred to the accounts of the "Crimea" Fund,
the "Torshe" Private Entrepreneurship, the "RED" Private Enterprise, the "Sinan"
Private Enterprise and the "Oasis" Cooperative, which, according to Arifov, are "the
property of private firms, behind which stand several specific individuals, Crimean
Tatars by nationality". Arifov states that the image of Imdat-Bank as a national
Crimean Tatar financial institution is a myth, because it has never been under the
control of the Mejlis, it has always been managed by only one person - Mustafa
Dzhemilev.
The opposition called such a state of the Mejlis a crisis, outside observers called it a
split, while Mustafa Dzhemilev himself and his colleagues tried to present the
opposition's actions at the Qurultay as a revolt in the Mejlis itself. Let's listen to the
arguments of the second side for full objectivity. In his report, Mustafa Dzhemilev
categorically denied the "information" about his personal accounts and involvement in
the ownership of commercial structures. He claimed that the money received by the
firms were not embezzled, but used as loans and had to be returned. According to
Mustafa Dzhemilev, one cannot "classify all debtors as thieves and embezzlers," even
if "it is unlikely that these firms will be able to repay debts in the near future. He also
recalled that it was the "Crimea" Fund that invested a lot of money donated by the
Tatar diaspora in the Imdat Bank. He rejected accusations of authoritarianism, saying
that "if even in such situations the chairman of the Mejlis cannot make volitional
decisions, then why does the Mejlis need a chairman at all?" He accused journalist
Lilya Budzhurova of "using standard methods of exposure," in which on television
they compared the "good" houses of some Crimean Tatars with the unfinished houses
of others.
In short, the Qurultay created a situation where, as it were, "two rights" collided. It
would have been correct, however, under one condition - if the opposition was given a
decent and normal voice. But Arifov was booed and the microphone was taken away
from Budzhurova. Democracy can not be limited; it either exists or it doesn't exist. It's
good and easy to be a democrat when you have nothing. It turned out that if a
manager gets to manage at least one bank and a fairly significant amount of money in
it, it is almost impossible to dispose of them so that everyone was happy.
Naturally, for Mustafa Dzhemilev to let the question "about the crisis" go on its own,
meant, perhaps, to be removed from politics today, when, in his opinion, this should
Annex 11 Exhibit B
not be allowed at all - he is included tenth in the election list of Rukh, which almost
guarantees the former dissident and the leader of long-suffering people election to
Verkhovnaya Rada of Ukraine. Of course Mustafa Bey could not take the risk, but he
was afraid to trust the people (more precisely, the Qurultay delegates) and to hold, as
it should be, closed voting about prolongation of his powers. As a result, voting was
conducted in a usual and primitive way from the point of view of democracy - each
delegate had to stand up and say - "for", "against" or "abstained", under the gaze of
tough "guards".
As a result, the events have not gone at all according to the scheme expected by the
opposition. The Qurultay took tough measures, but not to the "commercial and
banking structures" that the rebellious delegates accused of machinations, but to
themselves - all sixteen were expelled from the Mejlis, three - Lenur Arifov, Lilya
Budzhurova and Nariman Abdureshitov - were recalled from the deputy fraction in
the Supreme Soviet of Crimea, the decision "About the Crimean Tatar mass media"
was made, which replaced the entire editorial board of the "rebellious" newspaper
"Avdet"; the national editorial board on the Crimean television is ordered to have "a
public council from the representatives of the Mejlis, as well as the Crimean Tatar
culture, science and education"; a "concept of development of the Crimean Tatar
journalism for the implementation of a common information policy" will be
developed (?). Its former chairman Enver Muedinov was recalled from the revision
commission. The Qurultay confirmed the authority of Mustafa Dzhemilev, the
chairman of the Mejlis, and gave him additional rights - to withdraw without
discussion one third of the nominated candidates (although he asked for only one
tenth of them) when electing the members of the Mejlis, to veto its decisions and
others. If we take into account that the veto can be overridden by only two-thirds of
votes, and the chairman has the right to withdraw one third of votes even without
discussion, Mustafa Dzhemilev can be congratulated - practically he has received the
right of absolute veto, which actually gives him the rights of khan. If Kirsan
Ilyumzhinov can be, as they write, a "democratic khan," why can't Mustafa
Dzhemilev be one?
The delegates also confirmed the decision of the Mejlis on the participation of the
Crimean Tatars in the elections to the Verkhovnaya Rada of Ukraine in the bloc with
Rukh and adopted several other documents - an appeal to the OSCE, the UN High
Commissioner for Human Rights, President of Ukraine and the Verkhovnaya Rada of
Ukraine "On the continuation of discrimination of the Crimean Tatar people and the
need for urgent measures to protect their rights" and the appeal to the leadership of the
country "On consideration of the interests of the Crimean Tatar people in the
privatization process in Ukraine", which, however, in connection with the issue of the
Mejlis crisis are kind of in the shadow.
What is the result?
Mustafa Dzhemilev, in terms of overcoming the crisis, considers the Qurultay to have
"achieved its goals." The opposition, hoping that the Qurultay would calmly listen to
them and delve into the problem, left the congress.
And yet the losses from the Qurultay were probably greater than the gains. First of all,
the movement practically lost its image as a democratic movement, and accusations of
authoritarianism poured in against the head of the Mejlis. Secondly, the movement
has now completely lost its unity, which even before was questioned by the presence
of the Crimean Tatar National Movement and the disagreement with the official line
Annex 11 Exhibit B
of the Mejlis of some representatives of the movement in Moscow, Krasnodar, and
other regions. Such "fragmentation" in the near future will take away a lot of power
for internal discord, which could have been spent with greater benefit.
Thirdly, Mustafa Dzhemilev must clearly realize that a significant part of the veterans
of the movement are against him, and in time their archives, scattered today all over
the world, will be opened, where you'll probably find even more sudden letters than
quoted by Aisha Seytmuratova. As a politician, he apparently understands that it is
time that will paint his final image for history, and he doesn't care what that portrait
will be. This Qurultay added a lot of unflattering material for him...
Exhibit C
New Day, Budget money for settling Crimean Tatars went to a Western company
(17 November 2011)
(translation)
Annex 11 Exhibit C
Translation
New Day, Budget money for settling Crimean Tatars went to a Western company (17
November 2011), available at: https://newdaynews.ru/crimea/358513.html.
Budget money for settling Crimean Tatars went to a Western company
By Alla Dobrovolskaya, Simferopol
The financial activities of the Crimean Tatar Mejlis, the illegal ethnic “parliament”, and all
issues related to the distribution of budgetary funds allocated for the resettlement of repatriates
have remained a secret for 20 years. In the meantime, the Mejlis leaders and those businessmen
close to them are putting hundreds of millions into Western companies to gain profit, stealing
money from Ukraine and profiting from the hardships of others. This is described in the
investigative report Special Project “Mustafa” by the Information and Analysis Centre Milliy
Fırqa.
“Any information on Mejlis treasury receipts and expenditures is securely hidden from the
Crimean Tatar people. Those are also hidden from the Ukrainian state – after all, the Mejlis,
being an illegitimate organisation, keeps no accounts and therefore, pays no tax,” claims the
author.
According to Milliy Fırqa, the public activities of the Mejlis alone requires considerable funds
which include the salaries of twelve Mejlis Presidium members and five to seven office staffers
with zero income tax paid. Moreover, the Mejlis pays for the maintenance and supports the
operation of at least two buildings in Simferopol (at 2 Schmidta Street and 40 Zhidkova Street)
and a car park; it publishes the Avdet weekly, gives banquets for frequent foreign visitors
arriving in Crimea, and sends its chairman and his entourage on long trips.
“The Mejlis annual budget is tentatively estimated to be several times higher than, say, the
annual budget of the Crimean Presidential Representation...” Asking a rhetorical question
“What are the tax authorities, the prosecutor’s office and the economic crimes department
thinking?" is somehow stupid,” states the author of the report. “The Mejlis is beyond the law –
What can we demand from it?”
The author recalls that the aides to the People’s Deputy Mustafa Dzhemilev on economic
issues, the brothers Ruslan and Rustem Umerov, Arsen Zhumadilov and Aleksey Skorik not
only arrange international meetings for their boss, but also act as the main sponsors for his
organisation. At the same time, a number of Mejlis-financing businesses get their working
capital partly from budget allocations intended for the resettlement of repatriated Crimean
Tatars.
For instance, 35-year-old Ruslan Umerov, who by some accounts has “a magical influence on
the Mejlis leadership”, studied in Turkey and the United States, and then, upon his return, went
into business. Between 1997 and 2002, he found success in finance & investment and
international trade; the young businessman began his “ascent” at the age of 21. From early 2003
Annex 11 Exhibit C
to late 2004, he held the position of a chief executive officer in the Turkish investment company
BSS Capital. In 2005, he founded the investment company ICG Investments, owning and
presiding over it to the present time.
According to the Ukrainian Statistics Service, Ruslan Umerov founded several companies in
Ukraine: Recourses Management LLC (April 2005), consulting company ICG Investments
LLC (August 2005), construction company General Construction LLC (August 2005), travel
agency Visit Ukraine LLC (June 2007).
Apart from being an active businessman, Ruslan Umerov currently chairs the Board of
Directors in the Crimean International Business Association while also being an aide to the
People’s Deputy Mustafa Dzhemilev.
“What is interesting about Ruslan Umerov, besides his exceptional luck in business, is how he
treats his name. In various business projects, he appears either under the name of Ruslan, or
calls himself Aslan, and in some places also Arslan. Truth be told, he sticks to his surname
Umerov everywhere. What this juggling of names is about is a mystery, but it does take place,”
notes the author of the report. Here is another interesting fact: “Despite his youth, being neither
an activist of the National Crimean Tatar Movement, nor a member of the Mejlis, nor a delegate
of the Qurultay, Ruslan Umerov has an exceptionally strong influence on Mustafa Dzhemilev,
much stronger than the first deputy chairman Refat Chubarov and the entire Presidium of the
Milli Mejlis altogether.”
His 29-year-old brother Rustem Umerov, also US educated, actively participated in
international public activities and even held the position of vice-director in the Europe’s Youth
Headquarters in Kiev, and now heads the Kiev Crimean Tatar community. Between 2003 and
2010, Rustem Umerov’s business was closely associated with the Astelit company, a.k.a. the
mobile provider Life. In 2010-2011, he managed the above-mentioned ICG Investments, and
since 2011 he has become the CEO of the investment company iCapital.
Also this year, Rustem Umerov became president of the Crimean Development Fund Charity,
established jointly with Alexei Skorik, that, within a few months, managed to arrange a number
of international meetings for Mustafa Dzhemilev and paid out all associated costs. “The largest
international project by Rustem Umerov through the Crimean Development Fund was the
meeting between the Mejlis leader and diplomatic mission representatives at the Hyatt Hotel on
the 5th of October 2011,” writes Milliy Fırqa.
“Like his brother Ruslan, Rustem Umerov has a few mysteries, too. The first is his citizenship.
Albeit the holder of a Ukrainian passport, Rustem Umerov passes in foreign business projects
as a Netherlands citizen. It is unclear as to whether he is ashamed of his Ukrainian citizenship
abroad, or he hides his Netherlands citizenship in Ukraine,” argues the author of the report.
“The second is his role in the Mejlis. Albeit not a member of the Mejlis, Rustem Umerov is
always present at all Mustafa Dzhemilev’s international meetings. What’s more, during foreign
visits, he is introduced by the Mejlis leader to high-ranking officials as "the future leader of the
Crimean Tatar people”. Bearing in mind that on the 9th of November, Dzhemilev announced
his resignation from the Mejlis leadership, voicing “it's time to give way to the young”, there is
a feeling that Mustafa Bey is not joking about the future leader.
Annex 11 Exhibit C
The joint brainchild of the Umerov brothers, ICG Investments, is exposed as being currently the
“most mysterious and powerful” international company established by Crimean Tatar
businessmen.
“ICG Investments extends its operation to several countries around the world, including the
UK, France, Turkey, the USA, and the CIS countries. The company is developing oil, mining,
diamond and telecommunications businesses, investing millions of dollars, while retaining
investments and financial business in general as the core activity. Steering and redirecting
financial flows as required, the Umerov brothers, when free from public activities, effortlessly
manage a powerful international business project, whose profits finance the maintenance and
activities of the Milli Mejlis,” the source says.
Yet, the Ukrainian Statistics Service reports only UAH 30,000 ($3,750) as the ICG
Investments’ authorised capital. Meanwhile, in just a few years, the Umerov brothers created a
multi-million dollar business that, like all financial and investment businesses, ideally requires
large financial flows.
Keeping in mind the question “where could these young Crimean Tatars get such funds?”, the
exposé author reminds that for twenty years, Ukraine and the international community have
allocated around USD 1.5 bln for the return and resettlement of the Crimean Tatars in money,
humanitarian aid, building materials and the like, while the Accounts Chamber of the Crimean
Supreme Council and even the Mejlis Audit Commission testify in their regular reports that the
funds and humanitarian aid originally aimed at the resettlement of the deportees were actively
embezzled with the direct involvement of the Mejlis leadership.
“Having neither financial nor human resources, the Umerovs’ ICG Investments has established
a multi-million dollar international investment business in just a few years. The Umerovs'
business provides funds to cover the entire Mejlis economy, and through the Crimean
Development Fund established by them, also finances international projects for the Mejlis. The
Umerov brothers are involved in these projects on an equal footing with Dzhemilev... All
international meetings of the Mejlis leader, arranged by the Umerovs, carry only one key
message: Dzhemilev begs the world community for money, as if for the resettlement of the
Crimean Tatars,” says the reporter.
“The point is not even that the money disappears to God knows where in one place, and appears
from God knows where in another. What is much more important in this chain is the connection
between an aging politician and young businessmen, who just could not share any common
ground. Yet such a connection exists, meaning there exists also a point of intersection. And this
point lies in America and Western Europe. The openly anti-Russian orientation of Dzhemilev,
the ardent support of the Mejlis leader by NATO countries, the “vertical take-off” of the
business for the young fellows educated in these countries, their active involvement in
developing the Western European vector of the Mejlis activities, topped with completely absent
prerequisites for development of a small Muslim nation in the Western European Christian
community ... All this suggests there can be an artificially created and economically built
financial & political structure that “controls” the interests of the NATO countries in the Black
Sea region. Of course, in a game with such stakes, any smaller problems, such as, say, the
rehabilitation and revival of Crimean Tatars, immediately fade into the background in the eyes
of the “leaders of the nation,” concludes the author of Special Project “Mustafa”.
Annex 11 Exhibit C
Note that after this report was published on the public organisation Sebat’s website, it was
compromised and remains inaccessible to this day.
Exhibit D
LiveJournal, Thieves' Mejlis (20 June 2019)
(translation)
Annex 11 Exhibit D
founders (including Dzhemilev, the head of the Crimea Foundation and its major founder
shareholder) were accused of uncontrollably spending money that was received from the state
budget and earmarked for the repatriates’ return and resettlement programme.
According to Lenur Arifov who held the post of Deputy Prime Minister of Crimea in 1997, the
facts of embezzlement and misuse of budget funds by the Crimea Foundation and Imdat Bank
were confirmed. As a result of the fraudulent credit policy of the bank's managing bodies, Imdat
Bank suffered enormous losses. The incompetence of the organisation's managers brought the
bank on the brink of bankruptcy. An independent audit was conducted at the bank, but its
results were never disclosed by Dzhemilev; the bank was shut down, and many Crimean Tatar
families were left without the promised support.
An ethnic organised crime group operated under the same name, Imdat, in Crimea in the
turbulent 1990s. According to some Crimean media outlets, Bakhchysarai, Yalta, Yevpatoria,
Sudak and other Crimean towns were controlled by this organised gang, and its members
collected protection fees from their compatriot entrepreneurs. The mobsters also actively
participated in the 1995 Sudak pogroms when several cafes were destroyed and a state farm
director’s house in the village of Shchebetovka was burned down. As a result of the pogroms,
some entrepreneurs close to Mejlis leaders planted their businesses in Crimean seaside villages.
According to some media outlets and public and political figures, people from Dzhemilev's
inner circle were associated with the Imdat organised crime group. The leader of the Mejlis*
has, of course, publicly denied these allegations more than once.
Whilst Crimea was under Ukrainian control, Mejlis* members took advantage of the weak local
authorities, obtained land plots, built houses on them and sold them. A whole business was built
on the misery and poverty of the Crimean Tatar people. This business is gone now because land
plots are allocated legally, villages and a mosque are under construction.
However, the Mejlis people still have the same craving for Turkish money despite the fact that
Crimea is a Russian territory, and the Mejlis has been banned in the Russian Federation. There
is a small group of people in the ranks of the Mejlis* who can be counted on the fingers of one
hand that’s making capital from the conflict.
These days, the leaders of this illegal organisation are using all funds received from the United
States and the Turkish diaspora to provide financial support and maintenance for the Crimean
Tatar battalion in the Kherson Region, and to provide medical help to militants who fought for
ISIS in Syria and Iraq.
Exhibit E
Taurica.net, The forgotten leader of the Crimean Tatar people - Dzhemilev's deceased
opponent in the early 1990s (9 December 2016)
(translation)
Annex 11 Exhibit E
Translation
Taurica.net, The forgotten leader of the Crimean Tatar people - Dzhemilev's deceased
opponent in the early 1990s (9 December 2016), available a:
https://taurica.net/238739-Zabytyiy-lider-krymsko-tatarskogo-naroda-pogibshiiy-protiv
nik-Dzhemileva-v-nachale-90-h.html.
The forgotten leader of the Crimean Tatar people - Dzhemilev's deceased
opponent in the early 1990s
By Informer
Today, the phrase “the leader of the Crimean Tatar people” brings to mind only Mustafa
Dzhemilev, whose personality has been effectively made into a cult by human rights activists
and the ideology of post-Maidan Ukraine. A man with harsh nationalist views, an ardent
opponent of the Armenian genocide recognition, a destroyer of his compatriot opponents,
calling for an ethnic conflict in Crimea and devoting his last decades to the struggle for power in
the Verkhovnaya Rada, this, in fact, is all him, the self-proclaimed “leader” of an entire nation,
says Novoross.info.
Dzhemilev, his supporters and sponsors did everything they could to make sure that his killed
and ostracised Crimean Tatar movement opponents were eventually forgotten.
Sooner or later, justice will prevail anyway, and the “the leader of the Crimean Tatar people”
will be firmly associated with Yuri Bekirovich Osmanov, a prominent representative of the
Soviet intelligentsia, a scientist, writer and publicist who devoted his life to a peaceful return
and the restoration of the honest name of the Crimean Tatar people.
Annex 11 Exhibit E
The dissident’s life path was chosen under the strong influence of his father, Bekir
Osmanovich, who was rejected from the army during WWII because of his cardiac defect, but
with the arrival of German troops joined the partisans and did reconnaissance for the
Sevastopol, Akmechet detachments and the Central Headquarters of the Crimean partisan
movement. It was he who instilled in Yuri a love for the history and culture of the Crimean
Tatar people.
In 1958, Yuri graduated from school with a gold medal and went up to the Moscow State
University but was not accepted because of his nationality. With the assistance of the Crimean
Tatar national hero, pilot Sultan Amet-Khan, he managed to enter the Bauman Moscow Higher
Technical School, from which he graduated in 1965 with a degree in mechanical engineering.
He worked at the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research in Dubna and the Institute for High
Energy Physics (Serpukhov).
While at the institute, Yuri Osmanov became an active participant of the Crimean Tatar
movement and began to study the legacy of the Crimean Tatar educator Ismail Gasprinsky,
devoting his whole life to studying his works. As a student, he began to write poetry and later
also did literary translations of poems by Crimean Tatar poets, published in outlaw
underground press known as “Samizdat”.
As a dissident, he was arrested many times. In 1973 and 1974, Yuri and his father organised and
conducted a self-census of the Crimean Tatar people, from which he derived the total number of
Crimean Tatars deported from Crimea. He drew up seven formal notes concerning damage
caused to Crimean Tatars by deportation and drafted a statement of claim on behalf of the
Crimean Tatar people which he sent to the UN and the USSR supreme authorities. Yuri was
also an active public figure whose initiative helped prevent the impending massacre of the
Crimean Tatars during the riots in Fergana in 1989.
Yet, the Crimean Tatar national movement was never cohesive. The movement was represented
by various “initiative groups”, who created the so-called Central Initiative Group in the spring
of 1987. The key role in the creation of the Group was played by Mustafa Dzhemilev. This
group later became the core of the Crimean Tatar National Movement Organisation, aka
OKND, which in 1989 took shape as a political party. Some groups, for example, the so-called
Fergana Valley Group of Yuri Osmanov, did not join the Central Initiative Group, laying the
groundwork for the national movement of Crimean Tatars, aka NDKT. This was when the
confrontation between Osmanov and Dzhemilev broke out.
The more conservative NDKT and the OKND were separated by fundamental disagreements.
The NDKT strove after the restoration of the Crimean ASSR under Lenin's decree of 1921 and
counted on the assistance of the USSR’s party and state leadership, while the OKND strongly
opposed the Soviet system and counted on the creation of national statehood.
Dzhemilev immediately adopted nationalistic ideology and moved into extremism, getting
ready for seizure of land in Crimea and confronting the authorities and law enforcement.
Having enlisted the support of local authorities, the OKND summoned a “national congress”
(Qurultay) of the Crimean Tatars in 1991. The Congress decisions caused a serious aggravation
in Crimean interethnic tensions as it announced the creation of the Crimean Tatar national state
in Crimea, being the ultimate goal, declared all subsurface resources and waters the property of
only Crimean Tatar people and considered all other residents of Crimea, in fact, as illegal
outsiders and second-class citizens.
Annex 11 Exhibit E
Qurultay established a special body to govern the movement, the Crimean Tatar People’s
Mejlis, effectively a shadow nationalist government of Crimea, acting accordingly.
In contrast, the NDKT tried to find a way to avoid any new tragedies and bloody conflicts when
returning the Crimean Tatars to their historical homeland. Yuri Osmanov accused radical
opponents of striving for momentary political success, which could make Crimean Tatars
uninvited guests on their own land. He was convinced that his opponents from the OKND were
driven by the lust for power and profit rather than by concern for the future of their people.
Soon, though, Yuriy Bekirovich and the NDKT were sidelined for opposing the misuse of
financial resources allocated from the USSR budget by the Crimean authorities. So, the
organised resettlement of the Crimean Tatars was in fact disrupted, a spontaneous return,
unauthorized seizure of land and conflict between the Crimean Tatars and the authorities began.
After his dismissal, Yuri Osmanov devoted himself to the prevention and averting of any
potential ethnic and social conflict situations related to the mass return of Crimean Tatars to
Crimea. It soon turned out that while Osmanov and his organisation were making every
possible effort to rule out ethnic conflict in Crimea, the Mejlis leader was telling the media
about "the inevitability of armed clashes between the Crimean Tatars and the Russian
population in Crimea," referring to the readiness of the Crimean Tatars to take up arms and
essentially calling on the Turkish authorities to intervene. Osmanov went to the editorial offices
of those newspapers that had published an interview with Dzhemilev and protested against such
publications...
Shortly thereafter, on the 6th of November 1993, Yury Osmanov was severely beaten on his
way home from work and died of his injuries the next day. The death of such a bright leader,
capable of developing political theory and turning it into practice, led to the actual decline of the
NDKT. So Dzhemilev became the sole "leader" of the Crimean Tatar people.
As never before, Yuri’s words about the Mejlis ring true today, “The Mejlis was called upon to
inflame the non-Tatar population in Crimea with hysterical, openly provocative and absolutely
useless "physical" actions and scandals. All these actions are mere ventures played out solely
for the empire’s own interests or grand national and political intrigue schemes. Mejlis is about
trade and profiting from the people who are in such a dramatic state.”
Yet justice will one day prevail, and "the leader of the Crimean Tatar people" will be firmly
associated with Yuri Osmanov.
Exhibit F
Crimean Newswire, Alleged Missing and Real Murders (23 December 2014)
(translation)
Annex 11 Exhibit F
Translation
Crimean Newswire, Alleged Missing and Real Murders (23 December 2014), available at:
https://crimea-news.com/incident/2014/12/23/58565.html.
Alleged Missing and Real Murders – Crimea Newswire
Who ordered the murders of the honourable leaders of Crimean Tatars?
Most of Crimean Tatars have already forgotten who really stood for their interests, who died for
them and at whose hands. Yet with caution, people do convey the truth to each other. They are
still afraid to speak it out loud.
Without a trace...
Any and all advocates of the Crimean Tatar people talk a lot about the abduction of people in
Crimea, meaning, however, only their fellow tribesmen. They say that two dozen Crimean
Tatar activists are nowhere to be found as they were kidnapped by an unknown person, taken
out, hidden, or even killed. Later, however, it turns out that the vast majority of the missing
have never been activists and are believed by the law enforcement to be missing for
family-related reasons.
In a normal, tolerant society, the nationality of the victim or the criminal makes no difference.
But the self-proclaimed leader of the Crimean Tatars, Mustafa Dzhemilev, broadcasting now
from afar, insists that only Crimean Tatars go missing on the peninsula. It seems that the fate of
the citizens of any other nationalities missing for any reason is not of interest to this citizen at
all. It’s a shame as statistics show that other nationalities account for no fewer cases in
percentage terms. For instance, Crimean Tatars account for 12 to 14 percent of all inmates in
detention facilities. The same number went missing and were put on the wanted list. Relying on
the Crimean Ombudsman Lyudmila Lubina’s information, around eight hundred people went
Annex 11 Exhibit F
missing in Crimea. In most cases, relatives and friends simply did not turn to the police.
Two deaths connected by one fact
It must be admitted that for all the years of Ukrainian independence, two real Crimean Tatar
activists were killed in Crimea. One middle-aged and experienced and the other only beginning
his life. In 1993, Yuri Osmanov, the leader of the Crimean Tatar National Movement, the
movement conflicting with the interests of the Mejlis and its leaders, died at the hands of a
street gang. Many politicians and ordinary Crimean Tatars believe that his death was not just a
tragic accident during a street robbery - someone ordered his murder. Before embarking on an
investigation as to who benefited from this, let us recall those events. Members of the Crimean
Tatar National Movement, headed by Yuri Osmanov, went to Turkey to meet with
representatives of the local Crimean Tatar community. There, in the local community, Yuri
managed to find like-minded people. When in Turkey, he read interviews by Mustafa
Dzhemilev in two Turkish newspapers, which infuriated him. In his interview, the Mejlis leader
mentioned "the inevitability of armed clashes between the Crimean Tatars and the Russian
population in Crimea” and referred to the readiness of the Crimean Tatars to take up arms.
Right after reading this, Osmanov went to the editorial offices of these newspapers and
protested against such explosive publications.
Another thing, after the death of Yuri Osmanov, the state was no longer involved in the process
of returning and resettling the Crimean Tatars. Instead of an official government body (the State
Committee for the Restoration of the Rights of the Crimean Tatar People), the distribution of
aid to the deportees was exclusively handled by the "illegal" Mejlis under the permanent
leadership of Mustafa Dzhemilev and Refat Chubarov.
Norik Shirin, a Crimean Tatar youth activist, was killed eight years ago on the 20th of
December 2006. He was a student at the Faculty of Economics in Tavrida National Vladimir
Vernadsky University, the publisher of the newspaper Voice of Youth and the leader of the
youth movement Birlik (“Unity”). This 22-year-old boy was found dead in his own garage next
to his car. His body was slashed all over with a knife. According to the law enforcers, the nature
of the wounds suggested that the deceased had resisted the killer or killers. Around forty leads
were set out by the investigation, they even promised a reward for information. But to no avail,
all leads turned out to be a dead end. According to the press secretary of the then President of
Ukraine Viktor Yushchenko, the President urged the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the
General Prosecutor’s Office of Ukraine to take the investigation “under special control”.
Meanwhile, Refat Chubarov, who repeatedly demanded to take Norik out of the room during
his speeches as his questions were too uncomfortable, even stated that the deceased cannot be
considered a Crimean Tatar activist because of people of different nationalities involved in his
movement. As if this fact deprives Norik of his nationality.
They, the murdered Crimean Tatar activists, Yuri Osmanov and Norik Shirin, shared many
common ideas, and there is one fact that cannot be ignored, i.e. they were both Mejlis
opponents.
Contract killers without a organizer
The murder of Yuri Osmanov was somehow solved too quickly – one of the attackers
“accidentally” dropped his ... military ID on the crime scene. To avoid giving the crime a
Annex 11 Exhibit F
political connotation, simple “street robbers” sat on the dock, who, oddly enough, did not take
anything from Osmanov. The question of a possible organizer was not even posed ...
Despite the loud statements of the Prosecutor”s Office and the Police, the death of Norik Shirin
was never investigated. As members of the investigative group later said, the problems began
right after they decided to interview Dzhemilev and Chubarov. The authorities did not consent
to it. They had to interview a thousand (!) people who gave different testimonies. The case was
solved two years ago, but no one believes it was solved completely. It turned out that Shirin was
killed by an Uzbek extremist named Abu Abdallah, aka Shavkat Makhmudov, who at that time
lived with his friends in Ak-Mechet, where the murder took place. It was later found that he
committed many crimes in Crimea. However, our operatives did not have time to detain him,
and while we were negotiating with Uzbekistan, local police officers shot Abu Abdallah along
with his son during an anti-terrorist operation. There was no one to ask about the organizer.
Yet, it was obvious that the big bosses kept something back. Thus, the former Chief Crimean
Policeman Gennady Moskal complained “I should have gone to Uzbekistan to interview a lot of
people. There was even a clear reason why he (Makhmudov. – Ed.) did it. Unfortunately, we
physically did not have time.” The former Crimean Prosecutor Vladimir Boyko added “It’s a
shame. I saw for myself what a crime it was. But it’s not that simple”...
Not simple, indeed? Law enforcement officers have repeatedly recorded Abu-Abdalla on the
CCTV entering the Mejlis main building, now the former Mejlis building; he also “appeared” in
another Mejlis premises, the one on Zhidkov Street in Simferopol. One may ask why none of
the then special services took any interest in what a well-known terrorist, being on the
international wanted list, was doing there? Surely, under the previous government, it was
strictly forbidden to touch this illegal organisation and its leaders.
Interestingly, when it became known who murdered Norik, one of the comments on the Internet
read “He (Abu-Abdallah) was ‘contracted’ to kill Shirin. Even if they shared personal
animosity because of some incident, Makhmudov ... was not so stupid as to bring down the first
person he met outside his native Uzbekistan. At the same time, it was very convenient for the
organizer. Makhmudov is a citizen of another country, he came for a while, and who knows
when he will return? Moreover, he is condemned for the Uzbeks. So it happened, Makhmudov
was eliminated, and any traces of the organizer disappeared ...” Today, by the way, the traces
have literally disappeared in Crimea.
Exhibit G
RIA Novosti (Crimea), Organisers of Crimea blockade suspected of involvement in murder
(4 December 2015)
(translation)
Annex 11 Exhibit G
Translation
RIA Novosti (Crimea), Organisers of Crimea blockade suspected of involvement in murder
(4 December 2015), available at: https://crimea.ria.ru/20151204/1101921832.html.
Organisers of Crimea blockade suspected of involvement in murder
SIMFEROPOL, 4 December, RIA Novosti (Crimea). Ibraim Shirin, brother of Norik Shirin,
a young Crimean Tatar activist who was murdered in 2006, said that the investigators suspected
the former leaders of the non-registered Mejlis organisation Mustafa Dzhemilev and Refat
Chubarov of being involved in the crime. He told RIA Novosti (Crimea) about this.
“Unfortunately, I don’t know for sure. But that’s what members of law enforcement agencies
said; a prosecutor who had been working on the case at that time said that’s where the evidence
was pointing at, via Uzbekistan. The motive was a second TV station and a second radio station
that my brother should have had. Plus a large asset, more than five thousand young organisation
members of various ethnicities. It was a new wave at that time. When you see a rising leader
who can come to replace you, it may make sense to eliminate him”.
On the 20th of December 2006, the corpse of Norik Shirin, Board Chairman of the Crimean
Republican Public Youth Organisation Birlik-Unity, was found in Simferopol. Norik’s body
was found in a garage in the backyard of his house. He died from numerous stab wounds. Police
officers found about a dozen of them in his body.
Three years later, the assassin’s name was disclosed as Shavkat Makhmudov, 45, born in
Tashkent. In Uzbekistan, the man was wanted on charges of perpetrating a series of terrorist
attacks in Tashkent on the 16th of February 1999 that left 16 people dead and dozens injured.
Shavkat’s name was traced to Hizbullaha, a militant extremist cell of Hizb ut-Tahrir. Fearing
persecution by the Uzbek authorities, Makhmudov fled to Ukraine where he continued his
“work”.
After Shirin’s assassination, he returned to Uzbekistan to launch preparations for several
terrorist attacks in the country’s capital; he was killed while organising one of them. At that
time, Crimean police were talking over Makhmudov’s extradition to Uzbekistan.
Exhibit H
RIA Novosti (Crimea), Right Sector decides to launch "energy blockade" of
Crimea (12 October 2015)
(translation)
Annex 11 Exhibit H
Translation
RIA Novosti (Crimea), Right Sector decides to launch "energy blockade" of Crimea (12
October 2015), available at: https://crimea.ria.ru/20151012/1101223297.html.
RIA Novosti (Crimea)
Right Sector decides to launch "energy blockade" of Crimea
12 October 2015 at 12:41 PM
© RIA Novosti Anton Denisov
According to the Ukrainian extremist organisation “Right Sector”, no repairs to the
damaged power line running to Crimea will be carried out in the Kherson Region.
DneprEnergo repair operations were blocked by activists from the Azov battalion and
the Crimean Tatar Mejlis.
Simferopol, 12 October, RIA Novosti (Crimea). “Right Sector” extremists backed the Azov
activists and members of the Crimean Tatar Mejlis, unregistered in the Russian Federation, in
resisting the repair of a toppled power line running from Ukraine to Crimea in the Kherson
Region. A report on the “Right Sector”’s website says that the DneprEnergo repair team arrived
a few days ago to repair the damaged power line pole, but they failed to do so because activists
who also take part in the food blockade of Crimea prevented them from even starting the work..
“UkrEnergo: Crimea receives 200 MW less than it needs”
“We must cut off the supply of electricity to Crimea as we did with consumer goods. Electricity
is also a commodity. So, our activists saw that repairs were underway and asked the workers to
Annex 11 Exhibit H
stop it,” says Izet Gdanov, Deputy Head of the Crimea Civil Blockade Command & Control
Centre, as written on the “Right Sector”’s website.
“As of now, the repair of the power line is completely stopped, and our activists keep sentry
near the damaged pole”, the “Right Sector” informs.
Exhibit I
Political Navigator, Mejlis claims open terrorist activity (21 October 2015)
(translation)
Annex 11 Exhibit I
Translation
Political Navigator, Mejlis claims open terrorist activity (21 October 2015), available at:
https://www.politnavigator.net/medzhlis-zayavil-o-nachale-otkrytojj-terroristicheskojj-d
eyatelnosti.html.
Mejlis claims open terrorist activity
By Maxim Karpenko
The poles of electrical power lines feeding Crimea were blown up at the border of the peninsula
by supporters of the illegal Mejlis, as Lenur Islyamov, the blockade coordinator, admitted while
talking to Hromadske TV.
“I believe it was done by our Crimean Tatars who are leaving Crimea and got tired of waiting. A
lot of people have been in contact with us, they are angry saying: ‘We’ve had enough political
conversations. They don’t hear you in Kiev. We need to solve it in a more radical way. We need
to take these poles down’.
There are a lot of Crimean Tatars here, they are different people with different approaches to all
these things. After a year and a half, the people are fed up with waiting. To make it clear, when
Mustafa Dzhemilev says that Crimea will be left without power in October, it means that it will
be done so in October. It is a guideline to follow.
That’s why the authorities shouldn’t mess with Crimean Tatars, Mustafa Dzhemilev knows
what he is saying,” Islyamov said.
On the previous day, Zaur Smirnov, Chairman of the State Committee for Interethnic Relations
and Deported Persons of the Republic of Crimea, stated that the Mejlis may be banned in Russia
as an extremist organisation.
“Since they’re making agreements with organisations that have been banned in the Russian
Federation, such as the Right Sector, then a response from law enforcement agencies will be not
long in coming, of course,” Mr. Smirnov said.
Exhibit J
NTS, As It Was: The Energy Blockade of Crimea and Sevastopol Begins Two Years Ago
(22 November 2017)
(translation)
Annex 11 Exhibit J
Translation
NTS, As It Was: The Energy Blockade of Crimea and Sevastopol Begins Two Years Ago (22
November 2017), available at:
https://nts-tv.com/news/kak-eto-bylo-dva-goda-nazad-nachalas-energeticheskaya-blokad
a-kryma-i-sevastopolya-3225/
As It Was: The Energy Blockade of Crimea and Sevastopol Begins Two
Years Ago – Sevastopol Independent TV
By Lyudmila Zamyatina and Anton Parkhomenko of Sevinformburo for Sevastopol Independent
TV
Two years ago, on the night of 21/22 November 2015, Sevastopol and Crimea faced with an
unprecedented challenge. A group of Ukrainian extremists from the Crimean Tatar Mejlis
(banned in Russia) blew up electrical power line poles in the Kherson Region in two attempts.
The lights went out in all the towns and villages of the peninsula. This is how the Ukrainian
extremists celebrated the second anniversary of the Maidan. Residents of the peninsula have
learned from their own experience what a “power blockade” is. Two years later, a lot has been
forgotten, and the 185 days of living in an emergency no longer seem like such an ordeal. In
what follows, we are recalling life in Sevastopol during the power blockade without
embellishing these modern history events at all.
Rolling power outages were initiated. In the first days of the blockade, power was turned on for
three hours in each district of the city during the day, but even this schedule was very
conditionally respected.
Critical social infrastructure had to be urgently hooked up to diesel generator sets, which were
extremely scarce. The government of Sevastopol asked the Black Sea Fleet and the Ministry of
Emergency Situations to hand over their diesel generators to serve as sources of power supply
for the city's facilities.
All daily news reports began with announcing the power consumption quota that could be
allocated to Sevastopol from the power system of the Republic of Crimea. Updates were
provided by Igor Vasiliev, Head of the Department for Civil Defence of the Government of
Sevastopol.
The local generation capacity was insufficient. Additional power sources were being sent to
Crimea and Sevastopol from all over the country. Gas turbine units were on their way from
Vladivostok, and they were delivered to the city on the 10th of December. Many Sevastopol
residents bought their backup power sources for home and work use: generator sets were
whirring constantly on major streets by shops, pharmacies and cafes.
“We’re using a power generator. However, I had to burn candles until it was delivered. There
are still some left. We’re taking it easy. It’s a bit hard on the refrigerators though, but so far so
good. Does the generator have enough capacity for perishable foods? Yes, it does,” said Irina
Kudelina, a shop assistant.
Annex 11 Exhibit J
Any generators delivered to the peninsula were used to provide power to social infrastructure
on a first priority basis. People with electric stoves were the first to be helped, because they had
the worst of it. However, there were some cases of misuse: for instance, instead of feeding
pharmacies, ATMs or medical facilities, a large power generator on Oktyabrskaya Revolutsia
Avenue supplied power to a watering hole in the former Akhtiar restaurant building.
“I am a children’s sports coach, trying to bring up a healthy and strong young generation.
Across the street, there’s a bar, it used to be called Ururu, then Bombay..., it’s open all night
and disturbs public order. Who sets such priorities in our country? Why the people who are
doing something good have to suffer outages while those who are destroying our society get the
green light?" said Sergey Subotovich, an entrepreneur and resident of building No. 42 on
Oktyabrskya Revolutsia Avenue.
At first, there were day-long queues at gas stations: people were filling up full tanks and extra
canisters for their generators. Gasoline was available only at a few gas stations in the city,
provided that one had ration coupons.
Cell phone communications and access to the Internet were unstable. Traffic lights were off,
their functions were performed by traffic controllers whose gestures were unfamiliar to many
drivers.
In the evenings, emergency response workers placed light towers at dangerous intersections.
The city had to completely shut down its electric transport and street lights for a while.
The trolley bus fleet needed about one third of the electricity quote provided to the city to
operate. Instead, more than 100 backup motor vehicles were brought onto the streets of
Sevastopol.
Sevelektroavtotrans [electric transport operator] employees were not left without work: they
were on duty service to keep running the generators that supplied power to entire districts of
high-rise buildings. They had to work in any weather on a one day on / two days off schedule.
We talked about all this on the air. Our TV channel did not have any secure-supply backup lines
or preferential treatment, and we lived on the same three hours on-and-off schedule as did the
rest of the city. Our broadcasts were aired only when electricity was available. At every
opportunity, the hosts of Sevinformburo went on air to talk about the efforts of city services and
the city’s daily life in an emergency, to announce power outage schedules. On the 26th of
November our TV channel received a temporary 6-kW power generator set from the Sevastopol
Chief Directorate of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia so that we could keep
providing information to the city. Thanks to that, we became able to provide continuous TV and
radio broadcasts. The generator’s capacity was barely enough to power our recording
equipment: our first TV newscast had to be recorded “in the dark” of a radio studio, in field
conditions.
Later, newscasts were recorded in a regular studio, although in a distinct semi-darkness,
because it was impossible to turn on the studio lights for a lack of power.
Since the beginning of the power blockade, the editorial team of our TV channel was receiving
dozens of complaints a day. During the first week, we just tried to calm down the viewers,
telling them that everyone was in the same conditions. We took notes of the hardest situations to
convey them to the persons in charge.
Annex 11 Exhibit J
There were some egregious cases that we couldn’t keep silent about. Some people didn't get
power even on a rolling schedule. Residents of 59 Khrustaleva Street spent two weeks without
electricity due to a failure in an underground line, followed by another one in an overhead line.
Two hundred Sevastopol residents at 24-A Geroyev Stalingrada Street tried to draw the
authorities’ attention to their problem to no avail: they had no power at all for five days. On the
1st of December they decided, as a last resort measure, to block the traffic near the Blukher
Street bus stop. They stopped the passing vehicles and demanded a meeting with the governor
of Sevastopol.
Many Sevastopol residents helped the police to keep order and prevent crime from flooding out
onto the dark streets. Members of the Rubezh vigilante group patrolled the streets both day and
night.
However, there were some of those who profited from the misfortune of others. Our fellow
compatriots and residents of Sevastopol shamelessly jacked up the prices of candles,
flashlights, and generator sets.
At the same time, many citizens helped out others in the dark times. On the city’s main message
board and on social networks, Sevastopol residents offered free help to anyone who had found
themselves in dire straits. Some people repaired flashlights for free, or offered to charge
phones, some cafes provided free boiled water to young mothers and helped prepare hot meals
for their children.
"We are happy to offer assistance to all young mothers in Sevastopol. They can always come to
our cafe, we have a gas stove. We can cook hot meals, we can cook something for children,”
added Alexey Shirokov, the owner of The Pampushka café.
After two months of rolling blackouts, people who only had electricity for a couple of hours a
day were justly indignant at the fact that not all Sevastopol residents were being treated equally.
Then Sergey Menyailo, Sevastopol Governor, instructed the power engineers to make trips to
each building and switch off power manually at the breaker panel rather than doing it
automatically from a remote control station. However, it didn’t result in a fair distribution of
electrical power because there were simply not enough mobile teams.
That’s how Sevastopol had to live and survive on backup power sources for six months until the
power bridge from Kuban was commissioned. On the 1st of May 2015, it was put in full-scale
operation, but the state of emergency was maintained in the city for another two weeks after
that. Two years later, much has been forgotten, but we still remember this story of greed and
self-sacrifice, mutual assistance and indifference, which has actually been the only serious
aftermath of the re-unification of Crimea and Sevastopol with Russia.
Exhibit K
ATR, Islyamov on Crimea blockade: If all of Ukraine had joined it, the occupation
would already be over (21 September 2018)
(translation)
Annex 11 Exhibit K
Translation
ATR, Islyamov on Crimea blockade: If all of Ukraine had joined it, the occupation would
already be over (21 September 2018), available at:
https://atr.ua/news/178326-islamov-o-blokade-kryma-esli-by-k-nej-prisoedinilas-vsa-ukr
aina-okkupacia-by-uze-zakoncilas
Islyamov on Crimea blockade: If all of Ukraine had joined it, the occupation
would already be over – ATR TV Channel
The civil blockade of Russia-annexed Crimea in 2015 could have led to the liberation of the
peninsula.
So stated the organiser of the blockade, Vice-President of the Crimean Tatar World Congress
Lenur Islyamov.
“The people who came to us, their hearts were so set on liberating Crimea that with such energy
and drive, we could have liberated Crimea. Of this I have absolutely no doubt. Had the whole of
Ukraine risen up back then, and joined the blockade, we would have entered Crimea and there
would be no occupiers there now”, said Mr. Islyamov.
According to him, protesters got help from volunteers; many people called saying how they will
support them.
“We have to give credit to those who came as volunteers to cook, help, clean, wash and serve
food. This was a huge job. Doctors came and stayed with us. We had sickness there, people with
Annex 11 Exhibit K
toothache and other problems except for childbirth, to my knowledge. We even celebrated
weddings. Some people just came to stay with us, saying that being there, they felt some
energy. This was indeed energy. People were all on fire.”
Lenur Islyamov stressed that the civil blockade brought many victories but there is still a lot to
do to liberate occupied Crimea.
“We have completed the mission entrusted to us. We ceased trade and returned honour to
mainland Ukraine showing that we are at least not trading with those enemies who captured and
are holding you hostage in Crimea. Here is a very important point. We cannot liberate you but
we certainly do not consider them friends or business partners”, said Mr. Islyamov.
Recalling the civil blockade earlier, the general director of the only Crimean Tatar TV channel
ATR Lenur Islyamov stated that it was one of the steps towards the de-occupation of Crimea.
Mr. Islyamov said that Ukraine had to keep pushing hard on this matter so the next step should
be to grant Crimea the status of a Crimean Tatar national-territorial autonomy.
Initiated by the Vice-President of the Crimean Tatar World Congress Lenur Islyamov, the
leader of Crimean Tatar People Mustafa Dzhemilev and the Mejlis Chairman Refat Chubarov,
the economic blockade of occupied Crimea began on the 20th of September three years ago. On
that day, with the slogan “Stop Feeding the Invader”, the leaders of the Crimean Tatars decided
to put an end to trade with the enemy.
During the day on the 20th of August 2015, protesters blocked roads leading to three
checkpoints on the administrative border with Crimea; Chongar, Chaplynka and Kalanchak.
They deployed anti-vehicle hedges, concrete blocks and set up tyres. From that time on, only
cars or walkers could enter or leave Crimea.
By blocking the roads, Crimean Tatars and Ukrainian patriots demanded that the law on free
trade with Crimea be repealed.
“We do not want the occupation authorities to strengthen their position with our goods, in
particular, the military garrisons they have set up all around Crimea. Let them think how to
transfer food from mainland Russia instead of tanks”, said the Mejlis Chairman Refat
Chubarov.
In addition, the protesters put forward a number of political demands to the Russian Federation
leadership, specifically, to release the illegally detained Crimean Tatars and Ukrainians; to stop
hindering the work of the Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian media in Crimea; to provide access to
Crimea for foreign journalists and foreign observers and to lift the ban on entry for the leaders
of the Crimean Tatar people Mustafa Dzhemilev and Refat Chubarov, as well as for members of
the national movement.
The Presidential Commissioner for the Crimean Tatar People Mustafa Dzhemilev said that it
was important to block trade with the occupiers in 2015, it was the right decision. A few months
after the blockade began, the Cabinet of Ministers officially banned the movement of trucks
across the administrative border with Crimea. Sanctions against Russia for the annexation of
Crimea, including trade sanctions, were imposed by all EU countries, the United States and a
number of other world countries.
Annex 11 Exhibit K
“We spoke about the blockade and at the same time we spoke how it happened, about Crimea,
how it was occupied. (...) Several tens of thousands of publications around the world brought up
the topic of Crimea. And apart from retaking Crimea by military force, our main strategy is to
cause Russia to spend as much money as possible on maintaining occupied Crimea. This goal
we also achieved,” said Mr. Dzhemilev.
The protesters removed blocks on all roads and checkpoints on the 31st of December. Within a
year, an economic blockade of Crimea will be called in Ukraine and elsewhere around the
world, the first and most effective step towards opening the way to the de-occupation of the
peninsula. One of the main results was the cut-off of electricity supply to occupied Crimea.
Annex 12
Witness Statement of , 22 February 2023
(translation)
Annex 12
INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE
APPLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION
FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF THE FINANCING OF TERRORISM AND
THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON THE ELIMINATION OF
ALL FORMS OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION
(UKRAINE V. RUSSIAN FEDERATION)
WITNESS STATEMENT
OF
22 FEBRUARY 2023
Annex 12
Page 2 out of 7
1. I, , am
, which was established to organise leisure activities and prepare and
hold cultural and leisure events.
2. I am providing this witness statement regarding the activities of the vocal group
“Svitanok”, which operates at , in order to refute Ukraine's claims
in the proceedings before the International Court of Justice that the Russian Federation
allegedly prevents the promotion of Ukrainian culture and harasses groups that perform
Ukrainian works.
3. The vocal group “Svitanok” operates in
. Its population is about two thousand people. Despite the small size
of the village, various nationalities live there in friendship: Ukrainians, Russians, Crimean
Tatars, Belarusians, Greeks, Koreans, Bulgarians, and Moldovans. We treat each other
respectfully within our village and have not noticed any ethnicity-related harassment by
residents of Shirokoye or other villages, districts and towns.
4. There are various creative groups at the cultural centre, one of which is the vocal group
“Svitanok”. At present, it is the only creative group in the village dedicated to Ukrainian
culture. It was founded in 2014, immediately after the reunification of Crimea with the
Russian Federation.
5. “Svitanok” consists of five young women aged 30 to 50, united by their love of Ukrainian
culture. The members are Ukrainians and Russians. One of the members of the group is
the wife of a Crimean Tatar. The ethnic composition of the ensemble confirms its main
missions: to promote friendship between peoples. Since this is an amateur group, its
members pursue a variety of professions in their daily lives: head of the preschool
institution “Golden Grains”, deputy principal and teacher at Shirokovskaya village
school, cook at a kindergarten, and cashier at a hardware store. Of course, the members
of “Svitanok” promote the love of Ukrainian culture in their professional activities as
well.
6. “Svitanok” is an amateur folk group that is mainly active in performing Ukrainian folk
songs, but its repertoire also includes Ukrainian pop songs. For example, the group
performs such compositions as: “Zelene Zhito”, “Pri Doliny Kushch Kaliny”, “Tischa
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Navkrugy”, “Tsvite Teren”, “Ridna Mati Moya”, “Chornobrivtsi”, “Krasiva Vesna” by
K. Buzhinskiy, “Dolinoyu Tuman”, “Polyublila”, “Tumanochku”, “Ya Tebe Shukaiyu”,
“Niby Vchora, Ridna Mamo”.
7. The group regularly performs at village events. Local residents always welcome the
ensemble's performances and listen to Ukrainian folk songs with pleasure. For example,
as part of various holidays, such as Victory Day or celebrations to mark March 8, the
ensemble “Svitanok” performed such Ukrainian songs as “Tisha Navkrugy”, “Pri Doliny
Kushch Kaliny”, “Chornobrivtsi”, “Nibi Vchora, Ridna Mamo”, and “Peremoga”. On the
day of the Unity of the Slavic Peoples in the Museum of Military and Labour Glory in
the village of Shirokoye, the vocal group “Svitanok” participated in a folk theatrical
performance “Shchiro Vitaemo, Lyubi Druzi” (“Welcome, Dear Friends”).
8. In addition, Shirokoye village traditionally holds a festival called “Blossom and Sing, My
Village”. It is attended by residents of various ethnic groups living on the territory
governed by the Shirokovsky village council. The event involves not only amateur artists
but also ordinary residents of Shirokoye village. The event in particular shows a spirit of
friendship and warmth between the representatives of all the nationalities of our village.
Traditionally, the “Ukrainian pavilion” is set up during the celebration. This year, along
with the vocal group “Svitanok"” it was prepared by the Ukrainians living in the village,
good neighbours and cousins, retirees who happily responded to the request to help equip
the pavilion, decorating it with latch fence, glechiks, malvas, towels, homespun runners,
and folk utensils. Friendly Ukrainian people teamed up to show proudly their creativity,
to introduce and treat villagers to Ukrainian folk dishes, and to tell them about the
traditions and customs of the Ukrainian people. The villagers sang the song “Zeleneye
Zhito" together with the vocal group “Svitanok” at the celebration.
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9. In addition to rural events, “Svitanok” often takes part in district, city, national, all-
Russian and international festivals and competitions. For example, in 2018 and 2019, it
took part in competitions organised by the Centre of Folk Art. In 2020, the ensemble
participated in the Republican Festival of National Cultures and Family Creativity “The
Surf Gathers Friends”, organised by the Ministry of Culture of Crimea and the State
Committee for Interethnic Relations and Deported Citizens of Crimea.1 The ensemble
also took part in the All-Crimean Festival “Blossom of Cultures”, for which it was
awarded with diplomas.2 In addition, the vocal group “Svitanok” introduced people to
Ukrainian songs at fairs held in Simferopol in 2021 - 2022. There, the ensemble
performed Ukrainian songs “Nibi Vchora, Ridna Mamo”, “Maryia”, “Dolinoyu Tuman”,
“Pololyubila”, “Tsvite Teren” and others. Vocal group “Svitanok” is loved, known and
very warmly welcomed at the concert sites in Simferopol and Simferopol District.
1 Razdolnoye District Administration’s official website, “Surf Gathers Friends” Republican Festival of National
Cultures and Family Creativity (26 October 2020), available at: https://razdolnoerk.
ru/news_content.php?cid=10592 (Exhibit A).
2 Rural Worker of Crimea No. 43 (9975), Day of People's Unity Holiday in the Village of Shirokoye (10 November
2018):
https://simfmo.rk.gov ru/uploads/simfmo/attachments/d4/1d/8c/d98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e/phpqlDAeu_st43
.pdf (Exhibit B), p. 7.
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10. Throughout the existence of the vocal ensemble, its members have not been discouraged
from singing Ukrainian folk songs. The audience has always listened to them attentively
and with pleasure, subsequently applauding them loudly. At no time did the ensemble
encounter situations where their performances were restricted or censored in connection
with the performance of Ukrainian folk songs.
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11. There are also Belarusian and Russian song groups in the village, with which the vocal
group “Svitanok” maintains friendly relations. They constantly help each other during
rehearsals and performances at various competitions and concerts.
12. I would also like to point out that, despite the fact that the band is amateur, it receives
financial support from the budget. The district department of culture, the head of the rural
settlement and the director of the cultural centre allocate funds to the ensemble. Most of
the money is spent on costumes for performances. Given that “Svitanok” performs
Ukrainian songs, it is Ukrainian folk and pop costumes with elements of Ukrainian folk
embroidery that are needed to be sewn. Notably, we have never heard any discontent
about the purposes for which the allocated funds were spent.
Witness
Simferopol, 22 February 2023
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LIST OF EXHIBITS
Number: Name of exhibit:
Exhibit A Razdolnoye District Administration’s official website, “Surf Gathers Friends”
Republican Festival of National Cultures and Family Creativity (26 October
2020).
Exhibit B Rural Worker of Crimea No. 43 (9975), Day of People's Unity Holiday in the
Village of Shirokoye (10 November 2018).
Exhibit A
Razdolnoye District Administration’s official website, “Surf Gathers Friends” Republican
Festival of National Cultures and Family Creativity (26 October 2020)
(translation)
Annex 12 Exhibit A
Translation
Razdolnoye District Administration’s official website, “Surf Gathers Friends” Republican
Festival of National Cultures and Family Creativity (26 October 2020), available at:
https://razdolnoe-rk.ru/news_content.php?cid=10592.
“Surf Gathers Friends” Republican Festival of National Cultures
and Family Creativity
On the 26th of October, the “Surf Gathers Friends” Republican Festival of National Cultures and
Family Creativity was held in a remote format.
The Festival was arranged by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Crimea, the State
Committee for Interethnic Relations and Deported Citizens of the Republic of Crimea, the House
of Peoples’ Friendship (a state budgetary institution of the Republic of Crimea), the Razdolnoye
District Administration, and the Razdolnoye District Inter-Settlement Centre of Culture, Leisure
and Library Services (a municipal budgetary cultural institution).
Friendship and love for creativity have united people of various nationalities living in Crimea in
one big and friendly family. For many years in a row, the “Surf Gathers Friends” Republican
Festival of National Cultures and Family Creativity has been traditionally held in the Razdolnoye
District. This year was no exception, and the beloved-by-many Festival was held in a remote
format. The Festival’s official pages on VKontakte (https://vk.com/priboysobiraetdruzey) and
Odnoklassniki as well as the official website of Razdolnoye District Inter-Settlement Centre of
Culture, Leisure and Library Services presented exhibitions and master classes by masters of
decorative and applied arts as well as craftspeople demonstrating everyday life, traditions,
cultures and national cuisines of the Crimean peoples. The gala concert performed folklore and
national creative teams from all over the Crimean Peninsula, including family creative
collectives, folk song ensembles, ethnographic theatres and national dance groups performing
national songs, music compositions and dances, became a bright spectacle for the online
audience.
The following performers took part in the gala concert: a duo consisting of Eduard Umerov and
Remzi Edemov of the Voinka Settlement House of Culture under the Krasnoperekopsk District
Centre of Folk Arts (a municipal budgetary cultural institution), Eduard Umerov of the Voinka
Rural House of Culture under the Krasnoperekopsk District Centre of Folk Arts (a municipal
budgetary cultural institution), Smorodina Vocal Ensemble of the Novosyolovskoye Settlement
House of Culture under the Razdolnoye District Inter-Settlement Centre of Culture, Leisure and
Library Services (a municipal budgetary cultural institution), Leisya Pesnya Vocal Ensemble of
the Nizhegorsky District House of Culture under the Nizhegorsky District Centralised Club
System (a municipal state cultural institution), Rhythm Dance Ensemble of the Frunze House of
Culture under the Saki District Inter-Settlement Centre of Culture, Leisure and Library Services
(a municipal budgetary cultural institution), Katerina Pop Vocal Ensemble of the Slavnoye
Settlement House of Culture under the Razdolnoye District Inter-Settlement Centre of Culture,
Leisure and Library Services (a municipal budgetary cultural institution), Vdokhnoveniye
Children’s Choreographic Folk Dance Ensemble of the Slavnoye Settlement House of Culture
under the Razdolnoye District Inter-Settlement Centre of Culture, Leisure and Library Services
(a municipal budgetary cultural institution), Ryabinushka Vocal Ensemble of the Chernyshyov
Settlement House of Culture under the Razdolnoye District Inter-Settlement Centre of Culture,
Leisure and Library Services (a municipal budgetary cultural institution), Kruzheva Vocal
Quartet of the Novopavlovka Settlement House of Culture under the Krasnoperekopsk District
Centre of Folk Arts (a municipal budgetary cultural institution), Belogorie Folk Song and Dance
Annex 12 Exhibit A
Ensemble of the Belogorsk District House of Culture under the Belogorsk District Centralised
Club System (a municipal state cultural institution), Nadezhda Vocal Ensemble of the
Orlovskoye Settlement House of Culture under the Razdolnoye District Inter-Settlement Centre
of Culture, Leisure and Library Services (a municipal budgetary cultural institution), Kalinka
Folk Song Ensemble of the Orekhovka Settlement House of Culture under the Saki District Inter-
Settlement Centre of Culture, Leisure and Library Services (a municipal budgetary cultural
institution), Samoylov Family Duo of the Pervomaiskoye District Centralised Club System (a
municipal budgetary cultural institution), Ryabinka Exemplary Vocal Ensemble of the
Chernomorskoye District House of Culture under the Chernomorskoye District Centralised Club
System (a municipal budgetary cultural institution), Russkiye Uzory Russian Folk Instruments
Orchestra of the Chernomorskoye District House of Culture under the Chernomorskoye District
Centralised Club System (a municipal budgetary cultural institution), Nadezhda Spasynkova of
the Chernomorskoye District House of Culture under the Chernomorskoye District Centralised
Club System (a municipal budgetary cultural institution), Echo Ensemble of the
Chernomorskoye District House of Culture under the Chernomorskoye District Centralised Club
System (a municipal budgetary cultural institution), Zvon Cossack Song Ensemble of the
Kovylnoye Settlement House of Culture under the Razdolnoye District Inter-Settlement Centre
of Culture, Leisure and Library Services (a municipal budgetary cultural institution), Retro Vocal
Ensemble of the Evpatoria Culture and Leisure Centre (a municipal budgetary cultural
institution), Pamyat Serdtsa Vocal Ensemble of the Evpatoria Culture and Leisure Centre (a
municipal budgetary cultural institution), Stil Choreographic Collective of the Kalinino
Settlement House of Culture under the Krasnogvardeiskoye District Centralised Club System (a
municipal budgetary cultural institution), Olesya Bodenkova of the Poltavskoye Settlement
House of Culture under the Krasnogvardeiskoye District Centralised Club System (a municipal
budgetary cultural institution), Quinta Vocal Ensemble of the Serebryanka Settlement House of
Culture under the Razdolnoye District Inter-Settlement Centre of Culture, Leisure and Library
Services, Gospodinya Ukrainian Folklore Ensemble of the Botanicheskoye Settlement House of
Culture under the Razdolnoye District Inter-Settlement Centre of Culture, Leisure and Library
Services (a municipal budgetary cultural institution), Svitanok Vocal Collective of the Shirokoye
Settlement House of Culture under the Simferopol District Centralised Club System (a municipal
state cultural institution), Priazovsky Nochi Folk Song Vocal Ensemble of the Arabat Schyolkino
Palace of Culture in the Lenino District, Smerchika Ukrainian Song Folk Vocal Ensemble of the
Sudak Town House of Culture under the Sudak Urban District Centralised Club System (a
municipal state cultural institution), Sera Vocal and Instrumental Ensemble of the Voinka
Settlement House of Culture under the Krasnoperekopsk District Centre of Folk Arts (a
municipal budgetary cultural institution), Phoenix Dance Collective of the Schebetovka Urban
Settlement House of Culture (a municipal budgetary cultural institution) in the Feodosia Urban
District, Kara Goz Vocal and Instrumental Ensemble of the Pervomaiskoye Settlement House of
Culture under the Kirovskoye District Administration Department of Culture, Library Services
and Tourism (a municipal state cultural institution), Elsan Dance Collective of the Sovetsky
District Centralised Club System (a municipal budgetary cultural institution), Edem Abkelyamov
of the Mitrofanovka Settlement House of Culture in the Nizhegorsky District, Genchlik
Exemplary Percussion Ensemble of the Novosyolovskoye Settlement House of Culture under the
Razdolnoye District Inter-Settlement Centre of Culture, Leisure and Library Services, Phaeton
Crimean Tatar Vocal and Instrumental Ensemble of the Voinka Settlement House of Culture
under the Krasnoperekopsk District Centre of Folk Arts (a municipal budgetary cultural
institution), Elmaz Crimean Tatar Dance Ensemble of the Krasnogvardeiskoye District
Centralised Club System (a municipal budgetary cultural institution), Siyar Shamratovich
Adzhiumerov of the Voinka Settlement House of Culture under the Krasnoperekopsk District
Centre of Folk Arts (a municipal budgetary cultural institution), and Inna Aleksandrovna
Seitmemetova of the Razdolnoye House of Culture under the Razdolnoye District Inter-
Settlement Centre of Culture, Leisure and Library Services (a municipal budgetary cultural
Annex 12 Exhibit A
institution).
This Festival is held to popularise national cultures and family creativity, identify original
folklore collectives and individual folklore performers, and present the unity and diversity of the
cultures and traditions of the peoples inhabiting the Crimean Peninsula.
Participant’s diplomas will be awarded to all those who took part in the Festival.
Exhibit B
Rural Worker of Crimea No. 43 (9975), Day of People's Unity Holiday in the Village of
Shirokoye (10 November 2018)
(translation)
Annex 12 Exhibit B
Translation
Rural Worker of Crimea No. 43 (9975), Day of People's Unity Holiday in the Village of
Shirokoye (10 November 2018):
https://simfmo.rk.gov.ru/uploads/simfmo/attachments/d4/1d/8c/d98f00b204e9800998ecf842
7e/phpqlDAeu_st43.pdf.
Day of People's Unity Holiday in the Village of Shirokoye
By N.O. Saichenko, Director of the Shirokoye House of Culture
On the 4th of November, the Shirokoye House of Culture held an unforgettable holiday
dedicated to the National Unity Day. Thanks to the Simferopol District Administration,
Evgeny Zotov, Head of the Shirokoye Rural Settlement Administration, and to the
members of the local parliament, the Shirokoye House of Culture got the long-awaited
warmth generated from the heating convectors purchased for its large and small halls.
Vladimir Shkered, an active employee of the Shirokoye Settlement Council, performed the
most complex preparatory works before putting those convectors into operation and was
awarded an honorary diploma and a memorable gift.
Mr. Zotov pays much attention to the young athletes from Shirokoye. Young sportspeople from
the Gvardeyskoye Settlement Children’s and Youth’s Sports School in the Simferopol District
and their coach Alexander Astashenkov visited us for the holiday. Nikita, Lyubomir and
Miroslav from our Orlov multi-child family come to that School. The young team won various
prizes across the Crimea and took the first place in the Simferopol District’s cycling tournament
dedicated to the Day of People's Unity. On the stage, Mr. Zotov presented the young athletes
with sports uniforms and granted our young sportsmen a table tennis purchasing certificate for
the House of Culture.
On the Simferopol District Day, the best employees from Shirokoye were presented with
honorary certificates. S.S. Zobova, Artistic Director of the Shirokoye House of Culture, and E.M.
Usenko, Head of the local Paramedical and Midwifery Station, were met on the stage with
applause. On the Simferopol District Agricultural Workers’ Day, Agricultural Minister A.
Ryumshin awarded Nikolai Zavirukha, an Honoured Worker of the USSR and a labour veteran,
with an honorary diploma, and the villagers also welcomed the honoured agronomist of our
settlement with stormy applause. Grateful words were addressed to Nina Lukianova,
Chairwoman of the Shirokoye Settlement Council of Veterans, who takes extensive efforts to
arrange for various events for war and labour veterans. The Head of the Shirokoye Rural
Settlement Administration thanked from the stage Valentina Fadeyevna Martynova, an honorary
resident of Shirokoye, for her inexhaustible energy and positivity.
Thanks to the active efforts of our residents as well as Tamara Vyacheslavovna Martynova, Head
of the Shirokoye Library, and Tatyana Aleksandrovna Bychkova, Director of the Shirokoye
Museum of Labour and Military Glory, an exhibition of national dishes was held. We thank our
cooking wizards R.N. Dervisheva, Z.S. Izmailova, T.A. Scherbakova, O.S. Filenko, T.V.
Ishchenko, N.V. Bakanova, E.M. Usenko, E.V. Bodunova, and the staff of the Golden Grains
Kindergarten directed by N.S. Dzhemilova.
On this wonderful holiday, cultural workers summed up their results: a first-degree diploma for
participation in a drawing competition in the Simferopol District was awarded to Raduga
Exemplary Children’s Studio of Fine Arts directed by L.N. Kostan, and the District Department
of Culture awarded the winners with a trip to the “Chrysanthemum Ball”. Belorusskiye Napevy
Annex 12 Exhibit B
Quartet led by D.A. Kovalchuk, a participant of the Dervisa-2018 Regional Crimean Tatar Folk
Culture and Creativity Festival, and Svitanok Vocal Ukrainian Song Collective led by S.M.
Zobova, a nominee of the Blossom of Cultures All-Crimean Festival were also awarded with
honorary diplomas and an excursion trip to the Dobrovskaya Valley. The wonderful Izmailov
family represented Shirokoye at the Family Vernissage All-Crimean Festival Contest. The
participants of the Festival brought to their native settlement a plenty of positive emotions,
honorary certificates, and valuable gifts.
The Kyokushin Karate Federation of the Republic of Crimea and its President Vitaly Koshuta
made a sports presentation. Shirokoye guys showed a demonstrative performance. Girls from
Sport Studio 13 (coached by Marina Stepnaya) performed a sports dance, which received stormy
applause from the audience. During the concert, Russian, Ukrainian and Belarusian songs were
performed, and the Izmailov family read aloud their poems and songs in the Crimean Tatar
language. Patriot Children’s Collective and Masks Theatrical Studio directed by S.N. Sizov and
T.V. Litovchenko performed poems about Russia and peoples’ friendship. We thank the
wonderful vocal groups Harmony, Four Bogatyrs and Sunny Ray and soloists Irina Burdukova,
Vadim Pyniv, Darya Kovalchuk, Sergey Sizov and Marina Stepnaya for their songs presented.
The concert was decorated by children from the Golden Grains Kindergarten performing a dance
“The Sea Runs High” and kids of Impulse Dance Collective. Yablochko Dance Collective
(directed by Irina Dychko), a guest of the concert, presented a folk dance “Crimea in My Heart”.
Again, Mr. Zotov addressed his congratulations and wishes to all the residents of Shirokoye and
presented sweet prizes to the amateur performers. After the concert, representatives of national
dishes treated everyone to their pastries.
We thank E.A. Zotov, I.F. Perminova, V.A. Bogdanov, I.A. Adamanova, A.P. Gagarinova and
E.N. Romenskaya as the sponsors of our event.
Annex 13
Second Witness Statement of Aider Serverovich Ablyatipov, 22 February 2023
(translation)
Annex 13
INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE
APPLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION
FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF THE FINANCING OF TERRORISM AND
INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON THE ELIMINATION OF
ALL FORMS OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION
(UKRAINE V. RUSSIAN FEDERATION)
SECOND WITNESS STATEMENT
OF AIDER SERVEROVICH ABLYATIPOV
22 FEBRUARY 2023
Annex 13
Page 2 of 21
Annex 13
Page 3 of 21
1. I, Aider Serverovich Ablyatipov, hereby declare as follows:
2. I have previously given a witness statement on a dispute between Ukraine and the
Russian Federation before the International Court of Justice (“First Witness
Statement”). In the First Witness Statement, I highlighted a number of issues
concerning education in the Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian languages in the territory of
Crimea, in particular the following:
(a) The laws and regulations of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Crimea
ensure access of those wishing to study in the Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian
languages within the limits of those resources that are available to the education
system as a whole and to separate educational institutions;
(b) The Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea and
local authorities make every possible effort to provide education in the Crimean
Tatar and Ukrainian languages or, where it is not possible to provide education
entirely in the native language, to teach the Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian
languages as separate subjects;
(c) There are the following forms of study of a native language in Russian Federation
(which in some constituent entities of the Russian Federation are also state
languages): instruction in a native language, study of a native language as a
separate subject as part of the compulsory curriculum, and study of a native
language as part of extra-curricular activities;
(d) At the time of Crimea's reunification with the Russian Federation in 2014, the vast
majority of students on the peninsula were taught in Russian; the staffing of the
Ministry of Education, Science and Youth has not changed significantly since
Crimea's accession to the Russian Federation in March 2014;
(e) After the reunification of the Republic of Crimea with the Russian Federation,
educational institutions held parents' meetings, in the course of which it became
clear that parents were no longer interested in their children learning the same
amount of Ukrainian i.e. as a compulsory subject, just as before. As a result, to
save the jobs of Ukrainian language and literature teachers, their professional
Annex 13
Page 4 of 21
retraining was carried out so that they could teach both Russian and Ukrainian
language and literature;
(f) In order to be able to teach students according to unified federal educational
standards, extensive work has been and is currently being carried out to prepare
textbooks in Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian, and model educational programmes in
Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian have been developed;
(g) The organisation of instruction in the Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian languages is
based on voluntary applications by parents; that said, during my work at the
Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea, we have
recorded no violations of the rights of students and their parents that have not
been resolved, and the Ministry has responded appropriately to any appeals
concerning such issues;
(h) After 2014, there has been an increase in the number of students instructed in
Crimean Tatar and studying the Crimean Tatar language, what we note as a result
of systematic work to create the conditions and take advantage of opportunities
provided by the state;1
(i) The decrease in the number of students instructed in Ukrainian and studying
Ukrainian may be due to a lack of citizens' need for their children to receive
education in Ukrainian or to study it as a subject. We believe that the decrease in
the number of students studying in Ukrainian is dictated by reasons unrelated to
the infringement of their rights, in particular the lack of significant demand for
higher education in Ukrainian or its use in higher education institutions. Parents
(until 2014) also had in mind certain career opportunities in the service in state
structures for their children with knowledge of the Ukrainian language.
3. I have read Ukraine's Reply to the Russian Counter-Memorial (hereafter referred to as
the Reply). In my view, Ukraine has not refuted any of the facts contained in the First
1 Thus, there are currently 7,300 students studying in the Crimean Tatar language, a third more than the number
of 5,551 students studying in 2014 that Ukraine cites in ¶536 of the Memorial. See Ministry of Education,
Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea, Information on the Students Studying in the State Languages of
the Republic of Crimea (Russian, Ukrainian, Crimean Tatar) in General Educational Institutions of the Republic
of Crimea in the 2022/2023 School Year, available at:
https://monm.rk.gov ru/uploads/txteditor/monm/attachments//d4/1d/8c/d98f00b204e9800998ecf8427e/phpLLvg
NW_на%20САЙТ.doc (Exhibit A).
Annex 13
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Statement, and its Reply consists merely of unsubstantiated claims about the allegedly
deteriorating quality of education in Crimea and some mythical “experience of real
people” that allegedly attests to this.2 In my opinion, these “real people” do not have
reliable information. In this regard, I would like to point out the following.
4. I have not found in the Reply the criteria for assessing the “quality of education” in the
Republic of Crimea, according to which it has allegedly “deteriorated”. While claiming
that the Russian Federation is massively violating the rights of Ukrainians and Crimean
Tatars to study in their native language, Ukraine fails to take into account that belonging
to a particular nationality does not necessarily mean for a person that the language of
this nationality is the person’s native language, and that he or she would like to be
instructed only in that language. For many Ukrainians and Crimean Tatars living in
Crimea Russian is also their native language. If the rights of Ukrainians and Crimean
Tatars were indeed violated on a mass scale, the Crimean authorities would have
recorded numerous appeals by the population on that issue, but I am not aware of any
such mass appeals (since there are none).
5. In reality, based on my experience and knowledge, the quality of education in Crimean
Tatar has significantly improved in Crimea since its reunification with the Russian
Federation, and education in Ukrainian has not deteriorated. In this regard, I assess the
quality of education on the basis of such objective standard indicators as a) material and
technical base, b) availability of textbooks, c) availability of qualified personnel.
Separately, I note that the opinion of students' parents is taken into account when
assessing the quality of education, rather than the abstract statements of unspecified
individuals. Thus, if parents disagreed with the quality of education of their children in
Crimean Tatar or Ukrainian, there would be indisputable evidence (including in the
form of their appeals), which is not provided by Ukraine. Below I outline the actual
situation regarding the provision of instruction in the Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian
languages in the Republic of Crimea: (a) in preschool education, (b) in secondary
education, and (c) in higher education.
2 Reply, ¶670.
Annex 13
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A. PRESCHOOL EDUCATION
6. Although Ukraine does not mention preschool education in its Reply, I believe that
preschool education is an important part of the educational process, and, for the
successful development of its education system, a state must make efforts and invest
resources to support this level of education.
7. Since 2014 a significant amount of budgetary funds has been and continues to be
allocated for the construction of buildings for preschool educational institutions and the
opening of new kindergartens that provide instruction in the Crimean Tatar language,
for example:
(a) Kuneshchik Kindergarten No.19 (Kuneshchik translated from Crimean Tatar as
“Little Sun”) with instruction in the Crimean Tatar language (among others) was
built in 2021 in the Khoshkeldy neighbourhood of Simferopol (two groups – 49
children);
(b) In 2018, a modular building was built for Antoshka Kindergarten No. 5 in the
village of Oktyabrskoye, Krasnogvardeysky District, where children are taught in
the Crimean Tatar language among others (two groups – 52 children);
(c) In 2021, Kapitoshka Kindergarten No. 20 was opened in Simferopol, also with a
number of groups with instruction in the Crimean Tatar language (two groups –
62 children);
(d) In 2021, a new building was built for Silver Hoof Kindergarten No. 10 in Alushta.
Recruitment has been announced for Crimean Tatar language teaching and
education.
8. With regard to the staffing of institutions providing education in native languages, all
specialists who have received a teaching qualification in Crimean Tatar or Ukrainian
may teach in the area of pre-school education. Along with it, the Fevzi Yakubov
Crimean Engineering and Pedagogical University (KIPU) trains preschool education
professionals. According to the information I have, the KIPU's Teacher Training
programme with the Preschool Education specialisation curriculum include a number of
elective courses (i.e. voluntarily attended by students) related to teaching in the Crimean
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Tatar language. The table below shows some statistics on the number of students who
studied such disciplines from 2014/2015 to 2020/2021:
Name
Total
hours
2014/15
2015/16
2016/17
2017/18
2018/19
2019/20
2020/21
44.03.01 Teacher Training, specialization: Preschool Education
Crimean Tatar Children's Literature and
Folklore with an Expressive Reading
Workshop
144 - 38 - 9 32 68 51
Theory and Methodology of Teaching
Crimean Tatar to Preschool Children 108 - 38 8 9 15 68 26
9. It should be noted as well that the ongoing work to create textbooks for preschool
education is being conducted. For example, in 2017 special visual aids in the Crimean
Tatar language were published and handed over to kindergartens.3
B. SCHOOL EDUCATION
10. I do not agree with Ukraine's claims that Russia does not provide opportunities for
students to freely exercise the right to study Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian. I have
already pointed out in the First Witness Statement that parents in Crimea have the right
to apply for the choice of Crimean Tatar or Ukrainian (as well as other native language)
as the language of instruction for their child.4 The general education institutions of
Crimea carry out their activities in accordance with the regulations on the procedure for
choosing the language of instruction and the language of study, which guarantee the
right to choose the language of study on the basis of a written application by parents.5
These provisions also guarantee that school employees do not have the right, when
communicating with parents, to influence the choice of the language of education under
any pretext (convenience for the school, lack of possibility to satisfy their choice, lack
of trained teachers, etc.). Moreover, general education institutions, in accordance with
the provision on the choice of language, also regularly inform the parents of the students
3 Government of the Republic of Crimea, Simferopol District, Pre-school Institutions of Simferopol District
Receive Visual Aids in Crimean Tatar (24 May 2017), available at:
https://simfmo.rk.gov ru/ru/article/show/1963 (Exhibit B).
4 See First Witness Statement, Counter-Memorial (CERD), Annex 15, ¶17. See also Ministry of Education,
Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea, Annex No. 2 to the Letter of the Ministry of Education, Science
and Youth of the Republic of Crimea No. 0114/4442, 28 December 2017 (Exhibit C).
5 For example, Yalta Secondary School No. 15, Republic of Crimea, Regulation on the Choice of the Language
of Instruction and Language of Study in Municipal Budgetary General Education Institution “Yalta Secondary
School No. 15”, 29 October 2021 (Exhibit D).
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of opportunities to freely and voluntarily choose the language of instruction and study
(Crimean Tatar, Ukrainian).
11. I did not find any statistics or information in the Reply on specific cases of parents'
complaints to the competent authorities of the Republic of Crimea about facts of
ignoring their applications to teach their children the Crimean Tatar or the Ukrainian
language (or pressure on students who choose to study in Ukrainian by their classmates
as stated by Ukraine). This is not surprising, as throughout my tenure as Deputy
Minister of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea, there have been
only a handful of appeals from citizens on this issue. All the appeals have been
resolved. They were not due to lack of opportunities or “barriers” to the study of their
native language. The reason for the appeals was misunderstanding of the language
selection procedure on the part of some parents, and in some cases the refusal of parents
to sign and submit an application for choosing a particular language (Crimean Tatar,
Ukrainian, Armenian, German or another native language) as the language of
instruction (study) for their child. The Ministry of Education and myself have always
made it clear in such cases that it is by submitting an application that the parent
designates the choice of a particular language of instruction or study for their child. This
choice must be made by the parent (and not by the teacher, the school administration or
the Ministry) and certified by the parent's signature.
12. I find Ukraine's accusations regarding the choice of language of instruction not only
unfounded but absurd. Prior to 2014, an official Ukrainian regulation was in force in
Crimea, according to which a minimum of 8-10 students was needed to open a class to
study their native language (as far as I remember, this is a letter from the Ministry of
Education and Science of Ukraine dated 17 April 2008 No. 1/9-244).
13. In contrast, there are no such restrictions in Russia, and they have not been applied in
Crimea since 2014. I am aware of at least one instance in which the study of Crimean
Tatar was organised (in the Krasnoperekopsk District of Crimea) for just one student
(based on the application of his parents).
14. As for the material and technical equipment of schools in Crimea, the situation prior to
2014 left much to be desired. Despite the fact that during that period parents and
teachers appealed to various authorities in Simferopol and Kiev, the majority of schools
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with the Crimean Tatar language of instruction functioned in adapted premises (in
buildings not specially designed for schools). Almost all of them were in need of
reconstruction, new classrooms, sports and assembly halls, and canteens. The
authorities did not allocate sufficient funds to carry out repairs, create classrooms and
purchase necessary equipment for the classrooms. Almost all schools with native
language of instruction failed to meet the sanitary standards and requirements to
educational institutions. School No. 42 in the Kamenka district of Simferopol, which
was housed in the building of a veterinary clinic, may serve as an example.
15. In contrast to that, the Russian Federation has invested heavily since 2014 in the
improvement of facilities and equipment of schools. To name but a few examples:
(a) School No. 2 in Vilino of Bakhchisaray District, which provides instruction in the
Crimean Tatar language, enjoys all necessary conditions to ensure quality
education. Under the programme of modernisation of the regional education
system, the school equipped 9 special purpose classrooms with interactive
complexes, didactic and visual aids: 4 elementary school classrooms as well as
biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics classrooms.
(b) In Belogorsk School No. 4, which provides instruction in the Crimean Tatar
language, all window units were replaced with modern plastic ones in 2018, so
that optimal air and thermal conditions could be maintained in all rooms. Between
2015 and 2018, the school received 6 additional special purpose classrooms and a
library with a total library stock of 8,265 copies.
(c) In Sudak School No. 3, which provides instruction in the Crimean Tatar language,
the canteen was furnished with modern equipment in the 2015/2016 school year.
Medical examinations and inoculations are regularly conducted according to a
schedule. Once every year, students undergo a comprehensive medical checkup
by medical professionals. A computer classroom has been equipped. Under the
program of modernisation of the regional education system, the school was
provided with 9 classrooms: 4 elementary school classrooms and biology,
chemistry, physics and mathematics special purpose classrooms.
(d) Yevpatoriya School No. 18, which provides instruction in the Crimean Tatar
language, began operating as a base centre in 2015. 10 classrooms were furnished
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and equipped with modern projectors, interactive whiteboards, multifunctional
devices and personal computers with Internet access. The informatics classroom is
equipped with a projector, TV set, and 25 laptops for students.
(e) Opened in 2017 Simferopol School No. 44 has six classes with instruction in the
Crimean Tatar language and 28 classes that study Crimean Tatar as a subject. The
federal and regional budgets allocated 430 million roubles for the construction of
the school. The school is rightly considered to be one of the most beautiful,
comfortable and technically equipped schools, and not just in Simferopol. The
school consists of 5 three-storey blocks. There are 33 spacious bright classrooms
with high ceilings, an assembly hall and two sports halls, a laboratory and a
library. There is a separate accessory builing for younger students. Apart from a
football pitch with artificial covering and running tracks, there are also volleyball,
basketball and gymnastics courts. Elementary school, biology, chemistry, physics,
mathematics, history and music classrooms are equipped with the latest
technologies. There are fully furnished classrooms of informatics, sewing, foreign
languages, cooking and technology, as well as metal and wood workshops. The
school has a canteen, cafeteria, medical and dental rooms, a sports hall, an
assembly hall and a sports playground. The kitchen is equipped with up-to-date
equipment. The school has a canteen which provides hot meals to all students.
Children from grades 1 to 4 get free hot breakfasts, children belonging to a
welfare category receive breakfasts and lunches. Medical examinations and
inoculations are regularly conducted according to a schedule. Once every year,
students undergo a comprehensive medical checkup by medical professionals.
(f) On 1 September 2021, the Malovidnoye General Education Institution (GEI) of
Bakhchisaray District, which provides instruction in the Crimean Tatar language,
opened its doors to students. The school built under the Regional Modern School
Project – part of the National Education Project - is equipped with multimedia and
sports facilities.6
(g) GEI School No. 20 of Feodosiya, Crimea, providing education in the Ukrainian
language is located in a two-storey building. It offers all the necessary material
6 Malovidnoye General Education Institution, Attention!!! Dear parents, students and visitors of the website! (6
July 2021), available at: https://malovidsch-bahchisaray.educrimea ru/about/history/219822 (Exhibit E).
Annex 13
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and technical facilities for study. The school has a library with a reading room,
with the overall collection of books totaling 22,657 copies and a study collection
of 20,170 volumes.7 The school also has a furnished sports hall, a football pitch
and a volleyball court.8 According to my information, there is currently talk of
building a new school building, a plot of land has been allocated for its
construction and work has started on obtaining funding.
(h) The Simferopol Academic Gymnasium, which provides both instruction in
Ukrainian and the study of Ukrainian, also enjoys all the necessary conditions for
teaching children.9
16. Thus, the material and technical equipment of schools with instruction in the Crimean
Tatar and Ukrainian languages has significantly improved since the reunification of the
Republic of Crimea with the Russian Federation, and now fully meets all the criteria
necessary for the provision of quality education to students.
17. As for the availability of textbooks in the Crimean Tatar language, before 2014 Ukraine
did not provide schools with instruction in the national languages with the required
number of textbooks:
(a) The average availability of textbooks in Crimean Tatar in general education
institutions of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea in 2006 was: for the Crimean
Tatar language and Crimean Tatar literature textbooks – 44%; for educational
literature on the main subjects of the invariant part of the curriculum in the
Crimean Tatar language – 19.5%. Availability of textbooks in elementary schools:
textbooks in the Crimean Tatar language – 35.5%; textbooks on the Crimean
Tatar language and reading – 70.0%.
(b) Availability of textbooks in general education (grades 5-9): textbooks in the
Crimean Tatar language – 20%; textbooks on the Crimean Tatar language and
literature – 40%.
7 School No. 20 of Feodosia, Republic of Crimea, Equipped Classrooms (31 January 2023), available at:
https://feosch20.educrimea ru/conditions/logistics/address/22268/info/cabinet (Exhibit F).
8 School No. 20 of Feodosia, Republic of Crimea, Sport Facilities (31 January 2023), available at:
https://feosch20.educrimea ru/conditions/logistics/address/22268/info/sportobject. (Exhibit G).
9 Simferopol Academic Gymnasium, Information for the Gymnasium Website (31 January 2023), available at:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/14i4oVDbJTSEiYFH5TTOyLfQh-329Sd9n/view. (Exhibit H).
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(c) Availability of textbooks in senior secondary school (10-11 years): textbooks in
Crimean Tatar – 3%; textbooks on the Crimean Tatar language and literature –
3%.
improved.
70%, respectively. 10
(c) Thus, students are provided with textbooks for primary and basic general
legislation, the programmes of secondary general education (10-11 grades) are
10 (+) – fully provided with educational literature;
(-) - not provided with educational literature;
(0) - educational literature is not required by the ederal State Standards for elementary general, basic general
and secondary general education.
18. After Crimea's reunification with the Russian Federation in 2014, statistics on the
availability of textbooks in the Crimean Tatar language have significantly improved
(a) In school year 2018/2019, the availability of textbooks in Crimean Tatar by
educational level was as follows: elementary general education – 100%; basic
general education – 70 , secondary general education – 100% Even more telling
is the comparison of the present period with the Ukrainian one, which is, by levels
of education: 100% and 35.5%, 70% and 20%, 100% and 3%, respectively The
difference in the performed work is significant and objectively evident.
(b) The state of availability of textbooks in the Crimean Tatar language in general
education institutions is presented in the table below:education programmes in their native languages. In accordance with the current
Federal P 12 f 2
C im Tatar 3% extb ks n the Cr m an Tatar gu ge n litera u e
3%
1 Af r Cr m a s e nifi a ion w h h Rus ian Fe e a i n in 201 , s istics n he
f t C i t n c ed
(a) In school year 018/2 19, the availability of textbo k n C imean T tar by
du a ional le l w s as o lows elementary g nera uca i n 100% b sic
g r u atio %, eco ary a educ ion – E g
i c e per k g n nd ely d
(b) The s ate of av ilabi ty of tex b oks in the Crime T
№ School subject Year
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
1 Crimean Tatar Language + + + + + + + + + + +
2 Literary Reading in the Crimean
Tatar Language + + + + + + + + + + +
3 Mathematics + + + + - - 0 0 0 0 0
4 History 0 0 0 0 + + + + + 0 0
5 Social Studies 0 0 0 0 + + + + + 0 0
6 Geography 0 0 0 0 + + + + + 0 0
7 Biology 0 0 0 0 + + + + + 0 0
8 Fine Art + + + + + + + + + 0 0
9 Music + + + + + + + + + 0 0
10 Technology + + + + + + + + + 0 0
11 Physical Education + + + + 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
12 Basics of Life Safety + + + + + + + + + 0 0
13
Basics of Religious Cultures and
Secular Ethics (module "Basics
of Islamic Culture of Crimea")
0 0 0 + 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
uca ion pr gra me in the n ti languages n a rdan e ith t e curr t
g , g e c a g d ( g d )
ll d d i h l
and secondary g nera educ tion.
Annex 13
Page 13 of 21
mastered in Russian, but classes are provided with textbooks for the continuing
study of the Crimean Tatar language and literature as separate subjects. The
absence of some textbooks in grades 1-4 is explained by the fact that some more
complex subjects are not yet taught in these years (e.g., biology). In the upper
grades, the absence of some textbooks is due to the absence of dictionaries of
specialised scientific and academic terminology in Crimean Tatar. It is simply not
pedagogically sound to teach student in Crimean Tatar, for example in
mathematics, physics or computer science in the absence of developed and
approved terminology. In any case, the absence of such manuals cannot be used to
accuse the Russian approach to education in the Crimean Tatar language, as these
manuals and most subject textbooks were absent even before Crimea was a
constituent element of Russia. Thus, the provision of textbooks in the Crimean
Tatar language in the 2006/2007 school year was 20% in grades 5-9 and 3% in
grades 10-11. Most subjects until 2014 were taught using textbooks in Russian.
19. Besides, active work in publishing educational materials in the Ukrainian language
continues in the territory of the Republic of Crimea.11 Thus, in 2015-2018, 7 titles of
original and translated textbooks in Ukrainian were prepared, translated, edited,
published and distributed.
20. Ukraine also accuses Russia of disseminating inaccurate historical information in
textbooks, citing the content of one textbook, “History of Crimea for the 10th school
year”, which mentions Crimean Tatars among collaborators. I coordinated the project of
this textbook and deny the accusations of inaccuracy and tendentiousness in the
presentation of the material by the author's team.
(a) The textbook was published in 2018 and was prepared on the basis of an
agreement between Prosveshchenie Publishing House PJSC and the authors in
accordance with the requirements of the Concept of a New Educational and
Methodological Complex on National History. The Concept was developed and
approved on 30 October 2013 on the basis of the historical and cultural standard
in accordance with the instruction of the President of the Russian Federation
11 Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea, Crimea Plans Release of Original
Textbooks of Ukrainian Language and Literature (14 March 2017), available at:
https://monm.rk.gov ru/article/show/692 (Exhibit I).
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Vladimir Putin dated 21 May 2012 No. PR-1334. According to the state standards
of the Russian Federation, the inclusion of a chapter on collaborationism in a
history textbook is a mandatory requirement,12 history textbooks list Russian
Liberation Army, in particular General Vlasov, as collaborators during the Great
Patriotic War.13 With regard to this handbook, firstly, this textbook did not
mention selectively only Crimean Tatars as collaborators, but also representatives
of other nationalities, including Russians, Ukrainians, Armenians, etc., who for
various reasons went to serve the occupiers in Crimea during the war. This was a
historical fact.
(b) Second, given the content of the appeals received (Ministry of Education of the
Republic of Crimea received 29 letters; some about the collaborationism of the
Crimean Tatars and representatives of other peoples living in Crimea; some letters
about disagreement with the fact that the manual was not used in the educational
process), a public discussion was held on the presentation of the material in the
manual. Deputies and representatives of various educational institutions took part
in the discussion. In the course of the discussion, the author team explained that
the information was taken from historical archives. As a result of the discussion
and based on the minutes of the working group meeting of the Ministry of
Education of the Republic of Crimea on 11 April 2019, it was decided: a) there is
no legal grounds for the non-use in general educational institutions of the
textbooks “History of Crimea. Grade 10. Part 1”, “History of Crimea. Grade 10.
Part 2”; b) in order to prevent social tensions in society, to continue the use of the
textbook, but preliminarily organize the work of painting, gluing some pages,
paragraphs of the textbook.
21. With regard to the provisioning of educational institutions with qualified personnel
capable of teaching the Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian languages and provide instruction
in these languages, the two main institutions of higher education of the Republic of
12 See Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation, Concept of Teaching the Course of “History of Russia”
in General Education Institutions of the Russian Federation Implementing Basic General Education
Programmes, 23 October 2020, available at:
https://docs.edu.gov.ru/document/b12aa655a39f6016af3974a98620bc34/download/3243/ (Exhibit J), p. 64.
13 See L. Milov (ed.), HISTORY OF RUSSIA FROM ANCIENT TIMES TO THE BEGINNING OF THE 21ST CENTURY
(EKSMO, 2008) (Exhibit K), p.570. See also V. Shestakov, A. Sakharov (ed.), HISTORY OF RUSSIA XX - EARLY
XXI CENTURY, (Prosveshchenie, 2012) (Exhibit L), p. 231.
Annex 13
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Crimea provide comprehensive training and education of such professionals, i.e. the
Vernadsky Crimean Federal University (KFU) and the Fevzi Yakubov Crimean
Engineering and Pedagogical University (KIPU).
(a) In academic year 2022/2023, KFU accepted students in the following fields of
study: 45.03.01 Philology. Russian Language and Literature, 45.03.01 Philology.
Crimean Tatar Language and Literature, 45.03.01 Philology. Ukrainian Language
and Literature, 45.03.01 Philology. English Language and Literature.
(b) In academic year 2022/2023, KIPU accepted students in the following fields of
study: 45.03.01 Philology. Teaching of Philological Disciplines (Crimean Tatar
Language and Literature, English Language and Literature); 45.03.01 Philology.
Teaching of Philological Disciplines (Crimean Tatar language and literature,
Russian language and literature); 45.03.01 Philology. Teaching of Philological
Disciplines (Crimean Tatar language and literature, Turkish language and
literature); 45.03.01 Philology. Teaching of Philological Disciplines (English and
Literature, Russian language and Literature); 45.03.01 Philology. Teaching of
Philological Disciplines (Russian language and literature, Ukrainian language and
literature)"; 45.04.01 Philology. Master's Programme “Theoretical and Practical
Aspects of Crimean Tatar Philology”.
22. Given the demand and need for teaching of Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian, these higher
education institutions offer dual programmes where students study a language of their
choice in addition to Crimean Tatar or Ukrainian. This is done specifically to ensure
competitiveness of future specialists in the labour market and to increase the
attractiveness of Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian language programmes.
23. In addition to the basic training of such professionals, constantly attention is paid to
professional development for teachers. In particular, teachers who provide instruction in
the Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian languages, regularly take professional development
and retraining courses at the State Budget Educational Institution of Additional
Professional Education of the Republic of Crimea “Crimean Republican Institute of
Postgraduate Pedagogical Education” (GBOU DPO RC KRIPPO) and at the Fevzi
Yakubov Crimean Engineering and Pedagogical University (KIPU). It should be noted
Annex 13
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that the majority of teachers improve their qualifications at the GBOU DPO RC
CRIPPO.
24. Lastly, the Russian Federation provides financial incentives to teachers of the Crimean
Tatar language and literature. Resolution No. 658 of the Council of Ministers of the
Republic of Crimea dated 30 December 2014 established additional payouts for teachers
of Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian: an increase to salaries for teaching the language and
checking notebooks in it constitutes 10% and 0.5%, respectively.14
C. HIGHER EDUCATION
25. Although Ukraine does not directly mention the issue of higher education in the context
of education in the Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian languages in the territory of the
Republic of Crimea, I consider it necessary to also highlight that aspect, to complete the
picture.
26. As I mentioned earlier, there are currently programmes of Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian
language studies at KFU and KIPU. I think it is important to note that KFU also
provides an opportunity to study the Ukrainian language in the postgraduate programme
“Languages of the Peoples of Foreign Countries (Ukrainian)”. Besides training
specialists under Bachelor's and Master's programmes, 10 PhD and Candidate of
Science and Doctor of Science dissertations have been prepared over the past few years,
of which 8 are on the Crimean Tatar language and literature, and 2 are on the Ukrainian
language and literature.
27. Contrary to Ukraine's accusations of discrimination against Ukrainians in the context of
education, Russia steadily provides quotas for Ukrainian citizens to study in Russian
higher education institutions. Thus, in accordance with the plans approved by the
Russian Ministry of Education and Science, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and
Rossotrudnichestvo for the admission of foreign nationals to study in the Russian
Federation, 2014-2022 academic year total quotas included the following quotas for
Ukrainian citizens:15
14 Government of the Republic of Crimea, Regulations on the System of Remuneration of Employees of State
Budgetary and Autonomous Educational Institutions of the Republic of Crimea, 30 December 2014, available at:
https://rk.gov ru/ru/document/show/736 (Exhibit M).
15 Rossotrudnichestvo, Letter No. 5/09/08042, 9 December 2022. (Exhibit N)
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Academic year Quota size
2017/18 474
2018/19 490
2019/20 505
2020/21 440
2021/22 443
2022/23 650
2023/24 500
D. EXTRACURRICULAR AND OTHER FORMS OF EDUCATION
28. In my opinion, one of the most visible manifestations of the integration of the native
language in the educational process is the possibility to use it in creative and
competitive activities.
29. The knowledge, skills and abilities that students acquire in lessons with instruction in
their native language or the study of their native language are manifested by children in
the course of various activities. It has become a good tradition to hold municipal and
Republic-wide festivals, contests, conferences and other events. At the same time, I
would like to point out that such events do not only reflect the students' real knowledge
of their native language, but also help to preserve the identity, authenticity and
traditions of each nation, and ensure civil unity and harmony of interethnic relations in
the Republic of Crimea.
30. The Language as a People’s Soul annual creative contest is held among the students of
general education institutions of the Republic of Crimea and has gained certain
popularity among students and their parents. The contest is held in three stages (schools,
municipal and city districts, and the Republican finals) and includes three nominations:
“Written Creative Work”, “Recitation of Literary Works”, and “Master of Words”. The
language of works submitted for the contest is any language native for a people of the
Russian Federation. Topics change every year. For example, in 2015, in the “Written
Creative Work” nomination, students (of two age categories: Grades 5-8 and 9-11) were
offered the following topics to choose from: “We Remember Your Feat, Soldier”;
“Golden Rules of Life”; “A Man of Legend”; and “Could Such Stuff Happen!”
Contestants choose the genre of their work (essay, story, etc.) themselves. The
nomination “Recitation of Literary Works” featured the topic of “Classics of Russian
Literature in the Native Language” for students in two age categories, i.e. Grades 1-4
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and 5-8. The contestants submitted one work (excerpt) in their native language for the
jury's consideration. The topic of the nomination “Master of Words” was formulated as
follows: “Language is Given to People so that, Having Understood Each Other, They
Could Live Together" (Fazil Iskander). Contest participants presented their messages in
the form of a public oration in their native language, using various speech techniques
and demonstrating their command of the voice, facial expressions and gestures. Over
250 creative works in the nomination “Written Creative Work” were admitted to the
final contest (the Republican stage) in 2015, presented by students in 7 languages of the
peoples of the Russian Federation living in the Republic of Crimea, i.e. Armenian,
Bulgarian, New Greek, Crimean Tatar, German, Russian and Ukrainian. In 2018, 300
students from 252 schools participated in the final stage in this nomination. The
participants presented creative works on the topics “My family is my support”, “Do I
love the theatre?”, etc.
31. In the nominations of “Recitation of Literary Works” and “Master of Words”, more
than 150 winners of district and city stages of the competition demonstrated an excellent
command of their native language: Armenian, Greek, Crimean Tatar, Russian and
Ukrainian.
32. The festival of students' creativity in the Crimean Tatar language called “Native
Language is Priceless, Spiritual Wealth of the People is Inexhaustible” has been held for
15 years. The festival includes the following contests: Qirim – Menim Vatanim (Crimea
is My Homeland) contest of creative literary works named after Yunus Kandym; Teatr –
Ayatkuzgusi (Theatre is a Mirror of Life) contest of theatrical groups, which is held in
odd years, with KVN (the Wits and Comedy Club) competitions in even years; and Aile
Degerlikler (Family Relics) multimedia presentations. The festival is held in three
stages: district, city and republican. Every year memorial dates are determined to which
the events are dedicated. In 2015, for example, it was the 70th anniversary of the victory
in the Great Patriotic War.
33. The Yunus Kandym literary contest Qirim – Menim Vatanim (Crimea – My Homeland)
was held in two stages in a remote format on the topic of Qirimtatar Halk’nyn Jenk
Q’aramanlary (Crimean Tatar War Heroes) and “Menim Q’artbabam (Q’artanam) –
Jenk Ishtirakchisi” (My Grandfather (Grandmother) – Participant of the War). Students
of grades 5 to 11 took part in the first stage of the competition; winners of the first stage
Annex 13
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in two age categories (grades 5 to 8 and 9 to 11) took part in the second stage. The
winners of the republican stage not only get diplomas and valuable prizes, but are also
entitled to a publication in the Yildiz (The Star) literary and artistic almanac.
34. The contest for school theatre groups uses excerpts from works of Crimean Tatar
writers and poets of different genres, as well as self-authored works. In 20 minutes, a
group of young actors (not more than 10 in number) must show the level of knowledge
of the native language, directorial concept and its stage implementation, relevance and
artistic merit of the work, the level of performance skills and repertoire suitability to the
age of the performers. The KVN team competition follows the stages that have already
become traditional for this international game: “Team Presentation Card”, “Warm-up”,
“Musical Contest” and “Homework”.
35. The Aile Degerlikleri (Family Relics) multimedia presentations contest is held in two
stages (remote and in-person) and involves the presentation of a valuable family
heirloom (photographs, letters, household items, clothing, etc.) in three categories:
Report (an essay plus CD copy; multimedia (a presentation, Internet site, etc.); and
Video Clip. The works of the winners of that contest are published in the Yany Dunya
(New World) republican newspaper.
36. Olympiads for students also contribute to the development of interest in native
languages and discovery of gifted children. In January-February 2016 the Republican
Stage of the Olympiad for students in the Crimean Tatar, Russian, Ukrainian languages
and respective literature was held. In the finals took part: for the Crimean Tatar
Language and Literature – 252 people (71 of whom were recognised as winners);
Russian Language and Literature – 375 people (94); Ukrainian Language and Literature
– 112 people (35). In the regional stage of the All-Russian Olympiad of Schoolchildren
in the Republic of Crimea in the 2017/2018 academic year the number of participants
was: for the Russian Language – 49 people; Ukrainian – 49; Crimean Tatar – 145.
37. I would like to note the active participation of students of educational institutions in
events dedicated to memorable dates of the peoples of Crimea: the Khydyrlez (1st
decade of May) and Derviza (21 September) Crimean Tatar national holidays; Greek
national holiday Panair (3 June); Armenian holiday Vardavar (July); international
Annex 13
Page 20 of 21
festival “The Great Russian Word” (6-12 June); Memorial Day for Krymchaks and
Crimean Jews – Victims of Nazism (11 December), and others.
38. Every year in the period from May to August students of educational organisations
participate in the organisation and holding of events (in accordance with the Decision of
the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Crimea) dedicated to the Day of
Remembrance of Victims of Crimean Tatar Deportation from Crimea. This includes the
Light a Fire in Your Heart act, laying flowers at memorial monuments and memorial
signs, class hours, thematic exhibitions, meetings with people who survived the
deportation, and much more.
39. In my opinion, the celebration of the Native Language Day in the territory of the
Republic of Crimea deserves special mention. As part of that holiday, various events
aimed at promoting the Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian languages take place in schools
and libraries.16
40. Also noteworthy is the active participation of schoolchildren in events related to the
Ukrainian culture. Although I am better informed about events specifically dedicated to
the Crimean Tatar culture, I am nevertheless aware that Ukrainian-language school No.
20 in Feodosiya holds events dedicated to Taras Shevchenko Memorial Day.17 Besides,
students from other schools with an interest in the Ukrainian culture also participate in
various events of this kind.18
41. In my view, the above demonstrates and documents total availability of education in the
Crimean Tatar and Ukrainian languages and the study of these languages in the territory
of the Republic of Crimea, and convincingly shows baselessness of Ukraine's unproven
by facts and documents and unfounded accusations regarding education in native
languages.
16 See for example Crimean Newswire, International Native Language Day (20 February 2022), available at:
https://crimea-news.com/society/2021/02/20/762038 html (Exhibit O); Public Chamber of the Republic of
Crimea, Crimea Celebrates International Native Language Day (22 February 2022), available at:
https://opcrimea ru/novosti/v-krymu-otmetili-mezhdunarodnyj-den-rodnogo-yazyka.html (Exhibit P); Russian
Community of Crimea, Native Language Day in Saki (21 February 2018), available at:
http://www ruscrimea.ru/2018/02/21/6038.htm (Exhibit Q).
17 See for example: School No. 20 of Feodosia, Republic of Crimea, Shevchenko Days (21 April 2022), available
at: https://feosch20.educrimea.ru/about/news/page/3 (Exhibit R).
18 See for example: Academy of Humanities and Education, Memory of Lesya Ukrainka Honoured with a Series
of Events (25 February 2016), available at: https://gpa.cfuv ru/ru/novosti-2016-god/2072-pamyat-lesi-ukrainkipochtili-
ryadom-meropriyatij (Exhibit S).
Annex 13
Page 21 of 21
42. I hereby confirm that, to the best of my knowledge and beliefs, the information
provided in this witness statement is true.
Witness
[Signature]
Aider Serverovich Ablyatipov, Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences, Associate Professor
Simferopol, 22 February 2023
Annex 13
Annex 13
LIST OF EXHIBITS
Number: Name of exhibit:
Exhibit A Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea,
Information on the Students Studying in the State Languages of the
Republic of Crimea (Russian, Ukrainian, Crimean Tatar) in General
Educational Institutions of the Republic of Crimea in the 2022/2023 School
Year.
Exhibit B Government of the Republic of Crimea, Simferopol District, Pre-school
Institutions of Simferopol District Receive Visual Aids in Crimean Tatar
(24 May 2017).
Exhibit C Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea,
Annex No. 2 to the Letter of the Ministry of Education, Science and Youth
of the Republic of Crimea No. 0114/4442, 28 December 2017.
Exhibit D Yalta Secondary School No. 15, Republic of Crimea, Regulation on the
Choice of the Language of Instruction and Language of Study in Municipal
Budgetary General Education Institution “Yalta Secondary School No. 15”,
29 October 2021.
Exhibit E Malovidnoye General Education Institution, Attention!!! Dear parents,
students and visitors of the website! (6 July 2021).
Exhibit F School No. 20 of Feodosia, Republic of Crimea, Equipped Classrooms (31
January 2023).
Exhibit G School No. 20 of Feodosia, Republic of Crimea, Sport Facilities (31
January 2023).
Exhibit H Simferopol Academic Gymnasium, Information for the Gymnasium
Website (31 January 2023).
Exhibit I Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea,
Crimea Plans Release of Original Textbooks of Ukrainian Language and
Literature (14 March 2017).
Annex 13
Exhibit J Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation, Concept of Teaching the
Course of “History of Russia” in General Education Institutions of the
Russian Federation Implementing Basic General Education Programmes,
23 October 2020.
Exhibit K L. Milov (ed.), HISTORY OF RUSSIA FROM ANCIENT TIMES TO THE
BEGINNING OF THE 21ST CENTURY (EKSMO, 2008).
Exhibit L V. Shestakov, A. Sakharov (ed.), HISTORY OF RUSSIA XX - EARLY XXI
CENTURY, (Prosveshchenie, 2012).
Exhibit M Government of the Republic of Crimea, Regulations on the System of
Remuneration of Employees of State Budgetary and Autonomous
Educational Institutions of the Republic of Crimea, 30 December 2014.
Exhibit N Rossotrudnichestvo, Letter No. 5/09/08042, 9 December 2022.
Exhibit O Crimean Newswire, International Native Language Day (20 February
2022).
Exhibit P Public Chamber of the Republic of Crimea, Crimea Celebrates
International Native Language Day (22 February 2022).
Exhibit Q Russian Community of Crimea, Native Language Day in Saki (21 February
2018).
Exhibit R School No. 20 of Feodosia, Republic of Crimea, Shevchenko Days (21
April 2022).
Exhibit S Academy of Humanities and Education, Memory of Lesya Ukrainka
Honoured with a Series of Events (25 February 2016).
Exhibit A
Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea, Information on the
Students Studying in the State Languages of the Republic of Crimea (Russian, Ukrainian,
Crimean Tatar) in General Educational Institutions of the Republic of Crimea in the
2022/2023 School Year
(translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit A
Translation
Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea, Information on the
Students Studying in the State Languages of the Republic of Crimea (Russian, Ukrainian,
Crimean Tatar) in General Educational Institutions of the Republic of Crimea in the
2022/2023 School Year, available at:
https://monm.rk.gov.ru/uploads/txteditor/monm/attachments//d4/1d/8c/d98f00b204e980
0998ecf8427e/phpLLvgNW_на%20САЙТ.doc.
Information on the Students Studying in the State Languages
of the Republic of Crimea (Russian, Ukrainian, and Crimean Tatar)
in General Educational Institutions of the Republic of Crimea
in the 2022/2023 School Year
In the 2022/2023 school year there are 545 general educational institutions teaching 230
300 students the Republic of Crimea.
The education process is carried out in three state languages of the Republic of Crimea:
Russian, Ukrainian, and Crimean Tatar languages.
There are 528 general education institutions with Russian language of instruction ()
There are 16 general education institutions instructing in Crimean Tatar (in 261 classes
for 5 462 students). In addition, 119 classes with instruction in Crimean Tatar (for 1 905
students) have been opened on the premises of 21 general education institutions instructing in
Russian.
One general education institution (9 classes for 175 students) continues to instruct in
Ukrainian. In addition, a class with instruction in Ukrainian (for 15 students) has been opened
on the premises of the Simferopol Academic Gymnasium in Simferopol.
Thus, there are 222 800 students studying in Russian (96.7% of the total number of
students), 7 300 students studying in Crimean Tatar (3.2%), and 197 students studying in
Ukrainian (0.1%).
In the 2022/2023 school year seven native languages of the peoples of the Russian
Federation living in the Republic of Crimea will be taught and studied in the general education
institutions of the Republic of Crimea:
- Armenian (134 students),
- Bulgarian (49 students),
- Greek (142 students);
- Crimean Tatar (33 351 students),
- German (117 students),
- Russian (178 454 students),
- Ukrainian (3 486 students).
In the 2022/2023 school year, in 562 educational institutions of the Republic of Crimea
which implement programmes of preschool education, there are 78 600 children, including 72
600 taught in Russian (98.33 %), 1 300 in Crimean Tatar (1.63 %) and 31 in Ukrainian (0.04
%).
Exhibit B
Government of the Republic of Crimea, Simferopol District, Pre-school Institutions
of Simferopol District Receive Visual Aids in Crimean Tatar (24 May 2017)
(translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit B
Translation
Government of the Republic of Crimea, Simferopol District, Pre-school Institutions of
Simferopol District Receive Visual Aids in Crimean Tatar (24 May 2017), available at:
https://simfmo.rk.gov.ru/ru/article/show/1963.
Head of the Republic of Crimea
Government of the Russian Federation
Official resources
Government of the Republic of Crimea - SIMFEROPOL DISTRICT -News
Pre-school Institutions of Simferopol District Receive Visual Aids in Crimean Tatar
24.05.2017
On 23 May, visual aids in the native language published with the support of the Inter-regional
Public Movement of the Crimean Tatar People ‘Qirim’ were handed over to the pre-school
institutions of Simferopol District with Crimean Tatar groups and bilingual groups (with 2
languages of instruction). This was announced by Deputy Head of Simferopol District
Administration Ruslan Yakubov.
Among others, the aids were handed over to 7 kindergartens: MBDOU Beryozka (Urozhaynoye
Village), Rodnichok (Rodnikovo), Zvezdochka (Shkolnoye), Kolosok (Skvortsovo), Flazhok
(Gvardeyskoye), Solnishko (Mazanka).
Each group received 400 copies of the magazines.
Deputy Head of the Simferopol District Administration Ruslan Yakubov said that there were 10
bilingual and national groups in 7 pre-school institutions of the District at the time.
“Work is ongoing in the Simferopol District to support bilingual and national groups, the
opening of which became possible due to the cooperation of the District Administration,
teachers, parents and donors. We hope that the aids will be useful in the teaching and educational
process in the native language,” said Ruslan Yakubov.
The event was attended by the Head of the Inter-regional Public Movement of the Crimean Tatar
People ‘Qirim’, Deputy Head of the State Council of the Republic of Crimea Remzi Ilyasov.
“When children of all nations have the opportunity to study the culture, language and customs of
each other from the early age, it is a reliable guarantee that they will become good friends,
colleagues and neighbours in the future, and it will lay a strong foundation for interethnic
harmony in the Republic of Crimea,” he said.
The teachers of the pre-school institutions thanked the Head of the Inter-regional Public
Movement of the Crimean Tatar People ‘Qirim’ and the Simferopol District Administration for
support, and assured that the donated materials would become a useful and effective resource for
pre-schoolers and teachers in learning the native language.
Exhibit C
Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea, Annex No. 2 to the Letter
of the Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea No. 0114/4442,
28 December 2017
(translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit C
Translation
Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea, Annex No. 2 to the
Letter of the Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea No.
0114/4442, 28 December 2017.
Annex #2 to the Letter
of the Ministry of Education, Science and Youth
of the Republic of Crimea
ref. No. 0114/4442, dated 28.12.2017
TEMPLATE
To Director
_______________________________________
(name of educational institution)
_____________________________________________________
(surname and initials of Director)
_____________________________________________________
(surname and initials of Applicant)
Permanent residence address:
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
APPLICATION
In accordance with part 2 of Article 11 of Law of the Republic of Crimea #131-
ZRK/2015 dated 06.07.2015 “On Education in the Republic of Crimea”, I hereby request to
organize instruction for my son (daughter), student of _____year, _____________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
(full name of child)
in _________________________________________________________________ language.
I also request to organize for him/her the study of native ______________________ language.
Date Signature
Exhibit D
Yalta Secondary School No. 15, Republic of Crimea, Regulation on the Choice of the Language
of Instruction and Language of Study in Municipal Budgetary General Education Institution
“Yalta Secondary School No. 15”, 29 October 2021
(translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit D
Translation
Yalta Secondary School No. 15, Republic of Crimea, Regulation on the Choice of the Language of
Instruction and Language of Study in Municipal Budgetary General Education Institution “Yalta
Secondary School No. 15”, 29 October 2021.
REPUBLIC OF CRIMEA
YALTA URBAN DISTRICT
Municipal Budgetary General Education Institution
Yalta Secondary School No. 15
named after Hero of the Soviet Union I.M. Mangarov
______________________________________________________________________________
Ulitsa Rudanskogo, 43, Yalta, Republic of Crimea, 298600
Tel. (3654)23 43 08, fax: (3654)23 43 08, e-mail: gymn15 [email protected]
OGRN 1149102177003, INN 91030117267, KPP 910301001
CONSIDERED AND APPROVED
by Teachers’ Council meeting
Minutes #12 of 29.10.2021
APPROVED
Director, MBOU YSS #15
(signature) <…>
Order #350 dated 29.10.2021
(Round seal)
REGULATION
ON THE CHOICE OF THE LANGUAGE OF INSTRUCTION AND LANGUAGE OF STUDY
in Municipal Budgetary General Education Institution
“Yalta Secondary School No. 15”
1. GENERAL PROVISIONS
1.1. The Regulation on the Choice of Language of Instruction and Language of Study (hereinafter –
‘Regulation’) in the municipal budgetary general education institution "Yalta Secondary School № 15
named after Hero of the Soviet Union I.M. Managarov” of the municipal formation ‘Yalta Urban
District’, Republic of Crimea (hereinafter – “School”) is developed in accordance with Article 14 of the
Federal Law № 273-FZ of 29.12.2012 "On Education in the Russian Federation" (as amended by Federal
Law of 03.08.2018) No. 317 FZ), the Law of the Russian Federation "On the Languages of the Peoples of
the Russian Federation" of 25.10.1991 No. 1807-1 (amended on 12.03.2014), the Law of the Republic of
Crimea "On Education in the Republic of Crimea" of 06.07.2015 No. 31-ZRK/2015, and the Constitution
of the Republic of Crimea.
1.2. This Regulation is designed to comply with the legislation of the Russian Federation in the field of
education with regard to the determination of the language of instruction and the language of study in
School.
1.3. Educational activities shall be carried out in the Russian language unless otherwise stipulated in this
Regulation.
1.4. Teaching is carried out in accordance with the federal state educational standards EGE, SGE, BGE
(elementary, secondary and basic general education, respectively).
Annex 13 Exhibit D
1.5. In order to prevent violations of the rights of citizens concerning the determination of the language
of instruction and the language of study, School ensures that parents (legal representatives) of students are
systematically informed in order to freely and voluntarily choose the language of instruction and study
from among the state (Crimean Tatar, Ukrainian) languages of the Republic of Crimea, as well as the
study of their native language (including Russian) from among the peoples of the Russian Federation.
1.6. The organisation of the choice of the language of instruction and study envisages the participation of
the Board of Management. The results shall be reflected in parental statements.
1.7. This Regulation shall be binding on all participants of the educational process.
2. LANGUAGE OF INSTRUCTION
2.1. Pursuant to Article 14 (1) of the Law “On Education in the Russian Federation,” School guarantees
education in the state language of the Russian Federation and the choice of the language of instruction
and education within the possibilities provided by the education system.
2.2. The teaching and learning of the state languages of the Republic of Crimea shall not be to the
detriment to the teaching and learning of the state language of the Russian Federation.
3. STUDY OF RUSSIAN AS THE STATE LANGUAGE OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
3.1. Russian as the state language of the Russian Federation is taught in all classes in accordance with the
Law of the Russian Federation No. 1807-1 of 25 October 1991 “On the Languages of the Russian
Federation” and Federal Law No. 273-FZ of 29 December 2012 “On Education in the Russian
Federation”.
3.2. The study of Russian as the state language in School is regulated by federal state education standards.
The regional Basic Curriculum, based on the federal Basic Curriculum, allocates appropriate hours for the
study of Russian as the state language of the Russian Federation.
3.3. In Years 1-11 of School, Russian is taught in the scope prescribed by the Basic Curriculum for
schools of the Russian Federation; reduction of the number of hours of Russian language
teaching is not allowed.
3.4. Educational process shall involve only textbooks approved and recommended (or allowed) by the
Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation (according to the federal list of textbooks
for the current year).
4. STUDY OF THE LANGUAGES OF THE PEOPLES OF THE REPUBLIC OF
CRIMEA
4.1. Instruction in native languages (including Russian as a native language) can be guaranteed by
ensuring the necessary number of students for a class (group) and by creating conditions for their
functioning within the possibilities provided by the education system.
Annex 13 Exhibit D
4.2. Native language classes or classes (groups) studying a native language (including Russian) may be
created on the basis of applications from parents (legal representatives) at the time of enrolling the child
in School.
4.3. Instruction in native languages and the study of native languages (including Russian) are governed
by state educational standards and by the regional Basic Curriculum based on the federal Basic
Curriculum, allocating appropriate hours for the study of native languages.
5. STUDY OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES
5.1. English is taught as a foreign language from the 2nd to 11th years, and German from the 5th school
year. Provided that there are specialists available, other foreign languages may also be studied at the
parents' request.
5.2. Classes are divided into groups for foreign language study in accordance with statutory requirements.
6. ENTRY INTO FORCE, AMENDMENTS AND ADDITIONS TO THIS REGULATION
6.1. The term of validity of this Regulation is unlimited.
6.2. If changes are made in the normative legal documents regulating the activities of municipal
education authorities and educational organisations, this Regulation shall be amended accordingly.
Exhibit E
Malovidnoye General Education Institution, Attention!!! Dear parents, students and visitors
of the website! (6 July 2021)
(translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit E
Translation
Malovidnoye General Education Institution, Attention!!! Dear parents, students and visitors
of the website! (6 July 2021), available at: https://malovidschbahchisaray.
educrimea.ru/about/history/219822.
Attention!!! Dear parents, students, and visitors of
the website!
Application days:
MONDAY 9:00 - 15:00 Wednesday 9:00 - 15:00 Thursday 9:00 - 15:00
Please have the following documents:
- birth certificate (original + copy);
-Passport of one of the parents (original + copy);
-Registration certificate of the child at the place of residence or stay on the assigned territory;
For foreign citizens or persons without citizenship:
-a document confirming the right of the applicant to stay in the Russian Federation (original +
copy). Documents are only accepted from legal representatives (parents or guardians).
On the 1st of September 2021 our school will welcome its first students. Welcome to school!
The Malovidnoye General Education Institution was built in the framework of the regional
project “Modern School” of the national project “Education”.
Our educational institution meets all modern requirements. Classrooms are furnished with
comfortable and sound furniture, equipped with multimedia equipment and sports facilities.
The school has a spacious assembly and sports halls, a modern kitchen and a comfortable
canteen. Classrooms are equipped with interactive whiteboards and multimedia projectors
which facilitate efficient organization of the educational process.
The new school is looking forward to its hosts.
Date of publication - 06.07.2021
Exhibit F
School No. 20 of Feodosia, Republic of Crimea, Equipped Classrooms (31 January 2023)
(translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit F
Translation
School No. 20 of Feodosia, Republic of Crimea, Equipped Classrooms (31 January 2023),
available at: https://feosch20.educrimea.ru/conditions/logistics/address/22268/info/cabinet.
Equipped Classrooms
Primorsky village, 7 Proreznaya str.
Municipal budgetary educational institution "School # 20 of Feodosia, Republic of Crimea" is
located in a 2-storey building, has a material and technical base which ensures the organization
and conduct of all types of activities for students. The material and technical base corresponds
to the existing sanitary and fire safety rules and norms, and to the technical and financial norms
established for the maintenance of this base. The school has a library with a reading room. As
of the beginning of the school year, the main collection consists of 22,657 copies and the study
collection consists of 20,170 copies.
Exhibit G
School No. 20 of Feodosia, Republic of Crimea, Sport Facilities (31 January 2023)
(translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit G
Translation
School No. 20 of Feodosia, Republic of Crimea, Sport Facilities (31 January 2023), available
at: https://feosch20.educrimea.ru/conditions/logistics/address/22268/info/sportobject.
Sports Facilities
The Municipal budgetary educational institution School # 20 has a sports hall, football pitch
and volleyball court.
Exhibit H
Simferopol Academic Gymnasium, Information for the Gymnasium Website (31 January 2023)
(translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit H
Translation
Simferopol Academic Gymnasium, Information for the Gymnasium Website (31 January
2023), available at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/14i4oVDbJTSEiYFH5TTOyLfQh-
329Sd9n/view.
INFORMATION FOR THE GYMNASIUM WEBSITE
Material and technical support and equipment of the educational process.
The Gymnasium has material and technical resources that ensure the organisation of all kinds of
activities of its students and contributes to high-quality organisation of the educational process.
- Sanitary and hygienic requirements and norms correspond to SanPiN 2.4.2.2821-10.
- Fire and electrical safety conforms with the norms of Federal Law #69-FZ of 21.12.1994 "On
fire safety" (rev. of 25.11.2009); Rules of fire safety regime in the Russian Federation;
Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 390 of 25.04.2012 (as amended by
Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 201 of 06.03.2015).
- Compliance with occupational health and safety requirements conforms with Decree of the
Ministry of Labour No. 80 of 17.12.2002 "On approval of methodological recommendations on
the development of state normative workplace protection requirements" and No.1/29 of
13.01.2003 "On approval of the procedure for workplace protection training and testing of
employees' knowledge of workplace protection requirements".
- Compliance with deadlines and necessary repairs are ensured out in line with the school budget
and extra-budgetary funds available.
- Compliance with the requirements for the school site. The land area is 27994 sq. m. The land
plot is divided into zones for education, sports, games and household activities.
- Conformity with the requirements for the Gymnasium building - architecture - individual
design of a 3-storey building with a mansard above the classroom building, year of construction
2004.
Classrooms are located:
For elementary school on floors 1-2,
For years 5-11 on floors 2-3.
The Gymnasium has a set of premises needed to carry out the educational process at the
elementary, basic secondary, and complete secondary general education:
The total area of all premises of the Gymnasium is 14,814.4 square meters.
The total area of classrooms - 6,523.0 sq. m.
Subject Quantity Area, sq.m
Elementary classes 15 901.2
Physics 1 68.8
Chemistry 1 68.7
Informatics 2 172.8
Biology 1 69.1
Geography 1 59.1
History 1 58.2
Foreign language 8 286.1
Music 1 68.3
Russian language 5 291.0
Mathematics 3 181.7
Health and safety basics 1 93.8
Annex 13 Exhibit H
Workshops:
Carpentry 1 31.9
Service labour 2 148.4
Facilities for practical classes:
- laboratory equipment of the chemistry classroom;
- laboratory equipment of the physics classroom.
Assembly hall -1 (459.8 sq.m.)
Dance Hall - 1 (81.4 sq.m)
Museum - 1 (85.4 sq.m)
All classrooms are illuminated according to SanPiN.
Classrooms are furnished with necessary furniture, office equipment, visual aids, tables and
maps. All classrooms are nicely decorated, have passports and development plans.
Library with a reading room - 1 (246.8 sq. m.)
Reading room for 74 seats
Computer - 2 units with access to the Internet
Projector, projector screen -1 set
Book collection:
Total number of books – 36,328 copies;
including textbooks – 24,804 copies.
Fiction – 11,524 copies.
Conditions for Physical Education and Sports
The Gymnasium infrastructure includes a sports and physical culture zone that consists of
a football pitch with running tracks, basketball and volleyball courts, an outdoor workout zone,
GTO sports ground, playgrounds, a sports hall - 438m2, gymnastics hall -192.3 m2, swimming
pool (2 basins) - 568.4 m2. There is all necessary sports equipment and tools for full
implementation of curricula, organisation and conduct of various sports competitions.
Conditions for fine arts, music and dance classes:
- painting and drawing art classroom;
- music - music classroom, assembly hall. There are musical instruments and an audio system,
acoustic equipment.
- dance - dance hall, assembly hall, audio system, acoustic equipment.
- modeling and designing - carpentry workshop; workbenches, set of tools; room for service
labour: sewing machines, sets of utensils, an equipped cooking room.
Organisation of Medical Services
Medical care for students is provided by medical staff of the State Budgetary Institution of the
Republic of Crimea "Simferopol City Children's Clinical Hospital" on the basis of the contract
for medical services dated 14 January 2020. Paramedic I.V. Rudnichenko works in the
Gymnasium on a daily basis.
The Gymnasium operates:
- a medical office - 2 rooms with a total area of 55.6 m2 (doctor's room - 23.7 m2, treatment
room - 31.9 m2).
Medical rooms have a treatment zone, hot and cold water supply, necessary equipment and
medications for providing pre-doctor care.
Sanitation and household premises
The Gymnasium enjoys sanitary and household conditions conforming with sanitary norms.
- cloakroom for elementary school students - 50 lockers, 528 hooks;
- cloakroom for students of years 5-11th - 583 lockers;
- sanitary facilities - 4 rooms on each floor for students;
- 6 staff toilets;
Annex 13 Exhibit H
- gyms and swimming pool are equipped with showers and toilets.
Countering COVID-19
Classrooms and premises of the Gymnasium are equipped with 47 recirculators;
All surfaces in the Gymnasium are disinfected daily.
Disinfectants and detergents are available in necessary quantities.
Computer and communication equipment in the Gymnasium to support student and
teacher activities.
The Gymnasium is equipped with modern computer and communication equipment.
There are 11 interactive classrooms.
Informatics classrooms:
- student workplaces are equipped with monoblocks and personal computers -28 units.
- mobile computer class - 16 laptops.
26 classrooms are equipped with multimedia equipment (projectors, screens).
Teacher workplaces equipped with computers – 52.
Getting information from open information space:
-school website (http://sagimnazy.ru/)
- e-mail ([email protected])
- Internet access (speed of up to 100 Mbit/s)
- electronic magazine on the eljur.ru platform
Internet access points:
- for teachers – 52;
- for students – 28.
The use of the Internet at school is carried out for purposes related to the educational objectives
of the school, namely:
- prompt provision of teachers, students and parents with relevant, timely and true information
corresponding to the goals and content of education;
- creation of conditions for individual self-study of students;
- application of modern information and telecommunication technologies in learning activities;
- expeditious communication between teachers, students and legal representatives to improve
the effectiveness of learning.
To ensure safe receipt and use of information, a content filtering programme is installed on all
computers.
Organisation of school catering
The Gymnasium has conditions in place to provide catering services for students, which is
performed under a contract with MUP "Gorpischetorg".
Meals for students are organised in accordance with the sanitary rules and "Recommended cyclebased
menu for school catering facilities" approved by Rospotrebnadzor. The dining hall of the
canteen is designed for 295 seats. The food block produces a variety of ready-made meals in
accordance with the menu.
Main technological and refrigerating equipment:
1. Water heater 2 pcs.
2. Refrigerated low-temperature cabinet -3pc.
3. Marmite -2pc.
4. Grinder -2pcs.
3. Vegetable cutter -1pc.
4. Potato peeler -1pc.
5. Combi steamer -1pc
6. Electric cooker with 6 burners and an oven - 2pc.
Annex 13 Exhibit H
7. Counter for hot drinks -1pc.
8. Refrigerated display counter -1pc.
9. Refrigerated display case -1pc.
10. Grill cabinet with 3 sections - 1pc.
11. Baking cabinet -1pc
12. Dishwashing machine -1pc
13. KPE 200/9T boiler - 1 pc.
14. Reverse osmosis system (water treatment) -1pc.
15. Electric hand dryer - 3pc.
The dining room is furnished with tables and chairs in sufficient quantity.
Organisation of security
One of the main areas of work is creation of a safe environment, anti-terrorist protection and
workplace safety of all participants of the educational process. For that purpose, the Gymnasium
constantly works on improving the material and technical basis for the creation of optimal
conditions of safe functioning of the educational establishment:
- the Gymnasium is fully equipped with fire-fighting equipment;
- the building is equipped with an automatic fire alarm and voice annunciator (AFA); ‘Strelets-
Monitoring’ system; and fire warning and evacuation management system.
- the alarm system is connected to the control panel of the Ministry of Emergency Situations in
Simferopol
- there is exterior lighting along the perimeter of the school;
- insulation resistance measurements are taken in due time;
- 1.4m high fence around the perimeter of the Gymnasium;
- access control is carried out by the ACS and employees of private security contractor Svarog-1
Ltd.
- the premises and territory of the Gymnasium are equipped with a video surveillance system -
68 cameras
Organisation of an accessible environment for low mobility and disabled people
We have a facility availability passport approved by the Association of the Disabled Persons and
public organisations of the disabled of the Republic of Crimea in August 2016.
To arrange for the movement of small groups of people with low mobility in the Gymnasium,
there is a universal crawler stairlift -1pc.
The Gymnasium fully and timely complies with the instructions of supervisory organisations.
Prescriptions by state control (supervision) authorities.
There are no prescriptions from state control (supervision) authorities.
Exhibit I
Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea, Crimea Plans Release of
Original Textbooks of Ukrainian Language and Literature (14 March 2017)
(translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit I
Translation
Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea, Crimea Plans Release
of Original Textbooks of Ukrainian Language and Literature (14 March 2017), available at:
https://monm.rk.gov.ru/article/show/692.
Government of the Republic of Crimea
Head of the Republic of Crimea
Government of the Russian Federation
Official resources
Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea
Crimea Plans Release of Original Textbooks of Ukrainian Language and Literature
14.03.2017
Crimea is planning to print original textbooks of Ukrainian language and literature. That decision
was taken in the course of a meeting in the Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of the
Republic of Crimea with specialists of GBOU DPO RC KRIPPO and teachers of general
education institutions. The attendees discussed the main issue of organising work to prepare and
publish original textbooks of Ukrainian language and literature for Years 1-11 of general
education institutions pursuant to the State Programme for the Development of Education in the
Republic of Crimea for 2016-2018.
“That work, for the first time, will be organised in the educational system of the Republic of
Crimea in accordance with the Federal State Educational Standards of the Russian Federation.
The textbooks must be prepared on the basis of the Curriculum Guidelines for the subjects of
‘Ukrainian (as native) and Ukrainian literature’ entered into the Register of Major General Education
Programmes of the Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation,” said Deputy Head of the Ministry
of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea Aider Ablyatipov.
In the course of the meeting, future authors were recommended, while preparing the textbook
manuscripts, to pay attention that the materials of the textbook must be of applicative, logical
and systemic, and correspond to the contemporary requirements to textbooks. The main textbook
must be supplied with a teaching aid for teachers and an electronic version of the textbook.
Participants of the meeting made suggestions as to organisational issues and expressed their
willingness to take part in the work.
According to the Minister of Education, Science and Youth of the Republic of Crimea Natalia
Goncharova, preparation of textbooks and creation of conditions for the learning of native
languages contributes to the preservation of linguistic and ethocultural values of the peoples of
Crimea.
Exhibit J
Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation, Concept of Teaching the Course of “History of
Russia” in General Education Institutions of the Russian Federation Implementing Basic
General Education Programmes, 23 October 2020
(excerpt, translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit J
Excerpt
Translation
Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation, Concept of Teaching the Course of
“History of Russia” in General Education Institutions of the Russian Federation
Implementing Basic General Education Programmes, 23 October 2020, available at:
https://docs.edu.gov.ru/document/b12aa655a39f6016af3974a98620bc34/download/3243/.
APPROVED
By decision of the Board of the
Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation
Minutes of October No PK-1vn dated 23 October 2020
CONCEPT OF TEACHING THE COURSE OF "HISTORY OF RUSSIA"
IN GENERAL EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS OF THE RUSSIAN
FEDERATION IMPLEMENTING BASIC GENERAL EDUCATION
PROGRAMMES
____________________________________________________________________________
Introduction. Purpose and general provisions of the Concept (p. 2)
1. The course "History of Russia" in the system of school history education. The potential of the
course for education and personal development (p. 4)
2. The goals and objectives of the course "History of Russia" (p. 5)
3. The methodological basis of the course (p. 7)
4. Structure, content and approaches to teaching the course "History of Russia" (p. 9)
4.1. Important present-day issues of teaching Russian history in school (p. 9)
4.2. Steps in the study of national history in general education schools (p. 13)
4.3. Russian history teaching kit (p. 14)
4.4. Selection of the content of the national history course. The historical and cultural
standard (p. 16)
4.5. Modern methods and technologies for teaching national history (p. 18)
5. Ways of concept implementation (p. 19)
Annexes (p. 21)
А. Content core and synchronisation of study of domestic and general history courses (p. 21)
B. Historical and cultural standard for national history (p. 26)
List of recommended major events and personalities of the national history (с. 83)
Annex 13 Exhibit J
Stalin as Supreme Commander-in-Chief. Role of the Party in mobilising forces to repel
the enemy. Creation of the people's militia divisions. Battle of Smolensk. Soviet offensive at
Yelnya. Beginning of the blockade of Leningrad. Defence of Odessa and Sevastopol. Failure of
Hitler's plans for a lightning war.
Battle of Moscow. Offensive of Hitler's armies: Moscow under siege. Parade of 7
November 1941 on Red Square. Changeover to counter-offensive and the defeat of the
German grouping at Moscow. Offensive operations of the Red Army in winter and spring 1942.
Failure of the Rzhev-Vyazma operation. Battle for Voronezh. Outcome of the Battle of Moscow.
Siege of Leningrad. Heroism и tragedy of the civilian population. Evacuation of the
people of Leningrad. "The Road of Life”.
Transition to wartime economy. Evacuation of industrial facilities, population and
resources. Introduction of military discipline in production and transport.
The Nazi occupation regime. Master Plan Ost. Nazi propaganda. Mass crimes of Hitler’s
armies against Soviet citizens. Concentration camps and ghettos. Holocaust. Ethnic cleansing
in the occupied territory of the USSR. Nazi captivity. Extermination of prisoners of war and
medical experiments on the prisoners. Forcible transfer of Soviet people to Germany. Looting
and destruction of cultural valuables.
Start of mass resistance to the enemy. Righteous among the nations of the world.
Revolts in the Nazi camps. The rise of the partisan movement.
Radical turning point in the war (autumn 1942-1943)
Battle of Stalingrad. German offensive in spring-summer 1942. Defeat of Soviet troops in
the Crimea. Battle for the Caucasus. Defence of Stalingrad. Pavlov’s house. Encirclement of the
enemy grouping at Stalingrad and offensive in Rzhev’s direction. Defeat of Hitler’s armies
encircled near Stalingrad. Results and significance of the victory of the Red Army at Stalingrad.
Breakthrough of the blockade of Leningrad in January 1943. Significance of the heroic
resistance of Leningrad.
Battle of the Kursk Bulge. Relative strength of forces. Failure of the German offensive.
Tank battles near Prokhorovka and Oboyan. Changeover of Soviet troops to offensive.
Outcome and significance of the Battle of Kursk.
Battle for the Dnieper. Liberation of the Left Bank Ukraine and the crossing of the
Dnieper. Liberation of Kiev. Results of the Red Army offensive in the summer and autumn of
1943.
Behind the front lines. Development of a mass partisan movement. Anti-fascist
underground in large cities. Significance of partisan and underground struggle for victory over
the enemy.
Annex 13 Exhibit J
Cooperation with the enemy (collaborationism): forms, causes, scale. Hitler's creation of
military formations staffed by Soviet prisoners of war. Russian Liberation Army and other anti-
Soviet national military formations within the Wehrmacht. Trials in the territory of the USSR of
war criminals and collaborators of the occupiers in 1943-1946.
Man and war: the unity of front and rear. "All for the front, all for victory!” Labour
heroism of the people. Role of women and teenagers in industrial and agricultural production.
Selfless work of scientists. Population’s help to the front. Voluntary contributions to the defence
fund. Assistance to evacuees.
Everyday life in wartime. Front-line everyday life. Battle camaraderie. Women at war.
Letters from and to the front. Everyday life in the Soviet rear. Military discipline in the workplace.
Card system and rationing in cities. Conditions in the country. Survival strategies in the city and
in the countryside. State measures and public initiatives to save children. Establishment of
Suvorov and Nakhimov schools.
Cultural space during the war years. The song "Holy War" - an appeal to resist the
enemy. Soviet writers, composers, artists and scientists under war conditions. War
correspondents. Performances of front concert brigades. Songs and folklore. Cinema of the war
years. The state and the Church during the war. Election of Metropolitan Sergius (Stragorodsky)
as Patriarch in 1943. Patriotic service of representatives of religious confessions. Cultural and
scientific ties with the Allies.
USSR and the Allies. Problem of the second front. Lend-Lease. 1943 Teheran
Conference. French Normandy-Neman air regiment and Polish and Czechoslovak military units
on the Soviet-German front.
USSR’s victory in the Great Patriotic War. End of the Second World War (1944-
September 1945).
Completion of the liberation of the Soviet territory. Liberation of the Right-bank Ukraine
and Crimea. Soviet offensive in Belorussia and the Baltics.
Fighting in Eastern and Central Europe and the Red Army's liberation mission. Combat
cooperation of the Soviet Army and troops of the anti-Hitler coalition. Meeting on the Elbe.
Battle for Berlin and the end of the war in Europe. Vistula-Oder Operation. Battle of
Berlin. Capitulation of Germany. Repatriation of Soviet citizens during and after the war.
War and society. Military and economic superiority of the USSR over Germany in 1944-
1945. Restoration of the economy in the liberated areas.
Exhibit K
L. Milov (ed.), HISTORY OF RUSSIA FROM ANCIENT TIMES TO THE BEGINNING OF
THE 21ST CENTURY (EKSMO, 2008)
(excerpt, translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit K
M. V. Lomonosov Moscow State University
___________________________________________________
History of Russia from ancient times to the
beginning of the XXI century
under the editorship of Academician
of the Russian Academy of Sciences
L. Milov
History of Russia from ancient times to the end of the
XVIII-XIX centuries
History of Russia in the 20th and early 21st centuries
Moscow
Eksmo
2 0 0 6
Annex 13 Exhibit K
[…]
By the end of the war, the repatriation of the 5 million Soviet citizens
("displaced persons", including prisoners of war, "eastern workers", concentration
camp prisoners, soldiers in German formations, etc.) who had been outside the
USSR and had survived had become an acute problem. According to the Yalta
agreements, the "displaced persons" were to be returned to their homeland on a
mandatory basis. Up to March 1, 1946, 4.2 million Soviet citizens (2.7 million
civilians, 1.5 million POWs) were repatriated to the USSR. As a result of the
discord between the allies, the obligatory principle of repatriation began to be
violated, first for 'Westerners' (citizens from areas of the USSR annexed after
1939), then for 'Easterners'. "Non-returnees" constituted the so-called second wave
of emigration from Russia in the West. In 1952, these emigrants (mostly those
unwilling or afraid to return to the USSR) numbered some 620,000, 140,000 of
whom were former Soviet Germans who had taken up German citizenship.
The fate of those who returned to the Soviet Union was not simple either. The
Stalinist leadership feared that the long uncontrolled stay abroad had affected their
outlook and political attitudes. "The contrast between the standard of living in
Europe and at home, the contrast that millions of people who had fought," wrote K.
Simonov, "was a moral and psychological blow, which was not so easy for our
people to bear, despite the fact that they had been victors in the war". This contrast
may have been the basis of "kowtowing to the West".
The first stage of the repatriates' return to their homelands were the transit
points of the People's Commissariat of Defence and the screening and filtration
points of the NKVD (for civilians), special reserve units of military districts (for
former Red Army POWs). The "criminal elements" (those who had served with the
Germans) and "suspects" identified as a result of the checks were sent to NKVD
screening and infiltration camps "for further inspection". As a result, 2.4 million
repatriates were directed to their homes, 800 thousand were drafted into the army,
608 thousand were enrolled in labor battalions of the NKVD, and 273 thousand
(among them 123 thousand officers) were transferred to NKVD camps.
The special destiny waited for "vlasovites", all collaborators, and also the
deserters, who avoided service in army during wartime. In structure of German
armed forces (SS armies, Wehrmacht, auxiliary formations, police, self-defense)
1178 thousand former citizens of the USSR fought. Among them were Russians
(32.6%), Ukrainians (21.2%), Latvians (12.7%), Estonians (7.6%), Belarusians
(5.9%), Lithuanians (4.2%), the peoples of Central Asia (3.8%), Azerbaijanis (3,
3%), North Caucasians (2.4%), Georgians (2.1%), Armenians (1.9%), Volga and
Urals (1.1%), Crimean Tatars (0.85%), Kalmyks (0.6%). (Comparison of these
figures with the proportion of nationalities in the country's population on the eve
of the war allows one to speak of more and less "distinguished" in this respect).
Annex 13 Exhibit K
According to NKVD of the USSR, from the second half of 1941 up to July,
1944 in the USSR 1210,2 thousand deserters and 456,7 thousand who avoided
service in the army were revealed. In some cases, the evasion took on significant
proportions. For example, 63% of Chechen men drafted into the army at the
beginning of the war broke their oath and became deserters; mobilisation in
Chechnya had to be stopped. Chechen rebel units established in the mountains
established contact with the German troops when they approached, and conducted
major battles behind the lines of the Red Army.
According to the martial laws of many countries, those who defected to the
enemy were subject to the death penalty. To soften the rule, the Soviet leadership
substituted imprisonment or six years of exile for the majority of the rank and file
collaborators. The stigma of being a traitor became shameful and terrifying for
them. The work to identify and punish them continued for many years after the war.
As of January 1, 1951, there were 335 thousand "traitors to the Motherland" among
inmates of camps and colonies, among special settlers - 135 thousand "vlasovites"
(as of January 1, 1949). Severe punishment awaited those who sullied themselves
by collaborating with Germans in the occupied provinces. Partisans and members
of the underground did not escape the scrutiny of the punitive and political bodies.
In the liberated zones, the citizens were obliged to surrender their arms and
military equipment within 24 hours. Evasion was punishable by imprisonment, and
under aggravating circumstances by firing squad. Particular attention was paid to
men of conscription age. It was investigated why they had come to the occupied
territory, whether or not they had joined the partisans and how they had proved
themselves in the ranks. Those who had fought the occupiers were honoured with
honours and promotions.
The armed anti-Soviet nationalist organisations in the territories that became
part of the Soviet Union shortly before the war, mainly in Western Ukraine and the
Baltics, were a consequence of the war. Nationalists who had previously
collaborated with the Nazis and had fought alongside them against the Red Army
continued their armed struggle against the Soviet regime even after they had left.
From March 1944, the NKVD began to crack down on units of the Organisation of
Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN) and the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) in Western
Ukraine. Between February and October 1944 alone, more than 44,000 OUN
members were killed and over 44,000 captured […]
Exhibit L
V. Shestakov, A. Sakharov (ed.), HISTORY OF RUSSIA XX - EARLY XXI CENTURY,
(Prosveshchenie, 2012)
(excerpt, translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit L
Excerpt
Translation
V. Shestakov, A. Sakharov (ed.), HISTORY OF RUSSIA XX - EARLY XXI CENTURY, (Prosveshchenie,
2012).
Russian Academy of Sciences
Russian Academy of Education
Publishing house "Prosveshchenie"
Academic school textbook
V. Shestakov
HISTORY
OF
RUSSIA
Annex 13 Exhibit L
XX - early XXI century
Russian Academy of Sciences
Russian Academy of Education
Publishing house "Prosveshchenie"
Academic school textbook
__________________________________________________
______
V. Shestakov
HISTORY
OF
RUSSIA
XX - early XXI century
11th grade
Textbook
for general education
institutions
Field-oriented level
Under the editorship of A. Sakharov
Recommended
by the Ministry of Education and Science
of the Russian Federation
5th edition
Annex 13 Exhibit L
Moscow
"Prosveshchenie"
2012
[…]
Annex 13 Exhibit L
Shestakov V. A.
Sh-51 History of Russia, XX - early XXI century. 11th grade : textbook for
general education institutions : field-oriented level / V. Shestakov; ed. by A.
Sakharov; Rus. acad. of scien., Rus. Publishing house "Prosveshchenie". -
5th edition. - M. : Prosveshchenie, 2012. - 399 p., [16] l. ill. : ill. - (School
academic textbook). - ISBN 978-5-09-029193-4.
[…]
[…]
the offensive against Kharkiv ended, and attempts by individual units to
break out of the encirclement were unsuccessful. In May 1942, an attempt
to break the siege of Leningrad failed; the 2nd Shock Army of the
Volkhovskiy Front was also encircled and was defeated. Army commander,
Annex 13 Exhibit L
General A. A. Vlasov defected to the side of the Nazis and later organised
the so-called Russian Liberation Army (ROA), which fought on the side of
the Nazis. In his appeals to the Red Army he claimed that he consciously
joined the fight against Bolshevism for a "new Russia". However, a number
of historians rightly say that Vlasov's collaborationism is a consequence of
proprietary interests, the desire to survive at any cost. Vlasov managed to
form only two divisions and a number of auxiliary units, including a fighter
squadron.
ROA shared with Hitler's Germany an ignominious end. In July 1946,
Vlasov and 11 of his comrades-in-arms were sentenced to capital
punishment and hanged.
____________________________________________________________
1*. Try using documentary sources and the thematic map "The Great Patriotic
War of the Soviet Union" to draw up a summary by the Information Bureau of the
situation at the fronts in the first half of 1942.
Imagine what words they could begin with in those months.
2. Draw up a synchronistic table of the fighting in 1942 on the Eastern and
Western fronts. What questions can you formulate based on this table? Which sources
will help answer the questions posed?
____________________________________________________________
Military operations in the second half of 1942-1943. In the summer
of 1942 Hitlerite command launched an offensive in two directions at once:
at Stalingrad (Army Group "B") and in the Caucasus (Army Group "A").
The battle for the Caucasus began in late July 1942. The enemy
managed to capture a large part of the Northern Caucasus. Only after five
months of heavy fighting the enemy was stopped at the passes of the Main
Caucasian Range. At the same time the Army Group "B" developed the
attack on Stalingrad.
The fascist command attached special importance to the capture of
Stalingrad. The access to the Volga allowed the enemy to cut off the central
regions of the USSR from the supply of bread and oil and to transfer the
armies on maintenance of these vital resources from the seized lands. The
6th army of General F. Paulus and the 4th tank army of General G. Goth
supported by a big military aviation force of 1200 fighter planes were
rapidly advancing to Stalingrad.
Soviet High Command created Stalingrad Front on 12 July. The
advancing units of Paulus's 6th Army […]
Exhibit M
Government of the Republic of Crimea, Regulations on the System of Remuneration of
Employees of State Budgetary and Autonomous Educational Institutions of the Republic of
Crimea, 30 December 2014
(excerpt, translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit M
Excerpt
Translation
Government of the Republic of Crimea, Regulations on the System of Remuneration of Employees of
State Budgetary and Autonomous Educational Institutions of the Republic of Crimea, 30 December
2014, available at: https://rk.gov.ru/ru/document/show/736.
Types of educational institutions,
types of activities and categories of employees
Amount of
job
specificity
coefficient
1 2
1.3 Work of a teaching employee in groups for children with application of
national languages (Crimean Tatar, Ukrainian) (the coefficient is applied according
to the actual workload)
0,1
1.4 Work of an educational employee in speech therapy department (the coefficient
is applied per work rate)
1.5 Teaching staff working in groups for children with special needs (the
coefficient is applied on the basis of the actual workload)
1.6 Work of pedagogical staff in groups of compensatory type (the coefficient is
applied on the basis of the actual workload)
1.7 Work of a teacher's assistant, junior teacher in compensatory groups
(coefficient is applied on the basis of the actual workload)
2. General educational institutions
2.1 Head of library and librarians for work with educational funds (coefficient is
applied per work rate)
0,05
2.2 The work of level 1 and 2 managers whose activity is directly connected with
educational activity, pedagogical workers in
gymnasium
lyceum
convalescent school
school with advanced study of subjects
boarding school
2.3 Teacher's work related to the following activities
- check of exercise books for teachers of primary classes, literature, Russian
language, mathematics, drawing, foreign languages, national languages (Crimean
Tatar, Ukrainian) (the coefficient is applied according to the actual load)
- supervising over a training room, a methodical room, a workshop, a section, a
laboratory, a training and consulting center, experimental plot (the coefficient is
applied per shift)
- Management of methodical associations (coefficient is applied per work rate)
0,05
Annex 13 Exhibit M
2.4 Teacher work involving duties of a class teacher (coefficient is applied per hour
worked)
0,05
Exhibit N
Rossotrudnichestvo, Letter No. 5/09/08042, 9 December 2022
(translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit N
Translation
Rossotrudnichestvo, Letter No. 5/09/08042, 9 December 2022.
MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
FEDERAL AGENCY FOR THE
COMMONWEALTH OF INDEPENDENT STATES AFFAIRS, COMPATRIOTS LIVING ABROAD, AND
INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN COOPERATION
(ROSSOTRUDNICHESTVO)
Ul. Vozdvizhenka. 18/9, Moscow, 125009
Tel: (495) 690-1245, fax: (495) 609-9248, 609-9242
Email: [email protected]
Date:09.12.2022 No.5/09/08042
In response to: No.24073/dp
of 06.12.2022
To the Director of the Legal Department
of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
of the Russian Federation
E.T. ZAGAINOV
Copy: 2 DSNG of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia
Dear Yevgeny Timofeyevich,
In accordance with the request, we are sending available information for its
possible use in the defence of Russian interests in the case of "Ukraine v. Russian
Federation".
In this context, we think it advisable to pay particular attention to the facts of the
attacks by Ukrainian nationalists on the Russian Centre for Science and Culture in Kiev
and its staff in the period between 2014 and 2021.
If necessary, Rossotrudnichestvo is ready to send its representatives to participate
in the working meeting or provide additional comments on this topic (contact person -
<…>).
Attachment: ______________ pages, to the above address only.
Deputy Head __________________________________________P. Shevtsov
Annex 13 Exhibit N
Annex
Information and reference materials on changes in the number
of students studying in the Russian language in educational institutions of Ukraine
(within the competence of Rossotrudnichestvo)
In terms of discrimination on the basis of language, the situation in Ukraine
deteriorated in 1997 with the adoption of the Law on the Development and Use of
Languages in Ukraine, which enshrines the state status of only the Ukrainian language. It
equated "speaking and publishing in a non-state language" with "acts that pose no less a
threat to Ukraine's national security than propaganda of violence, prostitution, and
various forms of anti-Ukrainian propaganda". This law violated about 20 international
conventions on freedom of information. In 2012, President Yanukovych signed Law No.
5029-VI on the Fundamentals of State Language Policy, which retained Ukrainian as the
only state language but expanded the rights of minority languages. However, already in
February 2014, Rada deputies voted to invalidate it. The main purpose of the new version
of the Law "On the Development and Use of Languages in Ukraine" is clearly stated in
Article 1: "The state language of Ukraine is the Ukrainian language. It is the main means
of communication in all spheres of public life throughout the territory of Ukraine". Thus,
the Ukrainian language was declared obligatory to be used in all spheres of life and
special articles were introduced to provide for sanctions in case of non-compliance with
this law.
At the same time, Rossotrudnichestvo, on the basis of the Russian Centre of Science
and Culture (RCSC) in Kiev and with the help of a representative who worked at the
Russian Consulate General in Odessa, provided courses in the Russian language, social,
political and cultural events, as well as systematic work with compatriots. The work was
conducted in Russian due to the fact that the majority of the Ukrainian population spoke
Russian as a second mother tongue. This fact also explains the small number of students
in Russian language courses at the RCSC in Kiev.
On average over the period from 2015 to 2021 the total number of attendees of
Russian language courses at the RCSC in Kiev decreased by half (2015 - 115 people, by
the beginning of 2021 - 61 people). Socio-professional and age composition of course
attendees was represented mainly by schoolchildren, employees of companies and
enterprises, the age composition was from 6 to 70 years old.
In pursuance of Order No. K-1115 of the President of the Russian Federation dated
15 October 2014 on holding events in foreign countries to coincide with the period
starting with the Russian Language Day (6 June) and ending with the Day of Russia (12
June), the representative office annually held thematic events, including those based on
various partner platforms, primarily from among educational organisations in Ukraine.
As part of the implementation of the set of process measures "Scientific,
Annex 13 Exhibit N
methodological and personnel support for teaching the Russian language and languages
of the peoples of the Russian Federation" of the state programme of the Russian
Federation "Development of Education", Rossotrudnichestvo supplied educational,
methodological and fiction literature to Ukraine for further donation as requested by local
educational organisations (in 2016 – 1,119 copies were supplied, in 2017 - 245 copies, no
further information on the implementation of deliveries is available).
According to information outlined in the briefing note of the Russian Embassy in
Ukraine "On the situation of the Russian language in Ukraine" No. 1587 of 30 October
2020, the number of Russian-language schools in the country fell from 1,275 to 125 and
the number of students from 703,000 to 281,000 between 2013 and 2020.
To support Russian schools abroad and educational organisations providing
instruction in Russian and study of the Russian language, Rossotrudnichestvo created an
online resource "System of support for Russian schools" in 2016. The system includes 84
educational organisations with Russian language teaching located in Ukraine, but
according to the information on this resource, more than half of the listed educational
organisations "are not recommended for registration in the system".
The development of plans for the admission of foreign nationals to study in the
Russian Federation within the quota is based on the principles of meeting the needs of
foreign countries in training personnel for national industries and economy, taking into
account the need to fulfil Russian obligations under international treaties of the Russian
Federation in the field of education.
According to the third edition of the Admission Plan for the academic year 2021/22,
a quota of 443 places was set for Ukraine. At the same time, 897 applications from
Ukrainian citizens were submitted in the information system for the academic year
2021/22.
In planning the selection campaign for the academic year 2022/23, Ukraine was
assigned a quota of 650 places. At the same time, 755 applications were registered in the
State Information System "Education in the Russian Federation for Foreigners" for
participation in the selection campaign.
According to the applications for the academic year 2022/2023, the most attractive
universities for candidates from Ukraine were: Southern Federal University, St.
Petersburg State University, Belgorod State National Research University, Peoples'
Friendship University of Russia and Voronezh State University.
Among the specialties and areas of training, citizens of Ukraine preferred the
following: "Law", "Medicine", "Economics", "Acting" and "Linguistics".
In accordance with the plans approved by the Ministry of Education and Science, the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Rossotrudnichestvo for the admission of foreign
nationals to study in the Russian Federation within the quota for the 2014-2022 academic
years, the following quotas were envisaged for Ukraine:
Annex 13 Exhibit N
Academic year Quota size
2017/18 474
2018/19 490
2019/20 505
2020/21 440
2021/22 443
2022/23 650
2023/24 500
About the Russian Centre of Science and Culture in Kiev
The Russian Centre for Science and Culture (RCSC) in Kiev has been functioning
since 2004 on the basis of the Agreement between the Government of the Russian
Federation and the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine on the establishment and terms of
operation of information and cultural centres dated 27 February 1998.
In connection with the entry into force of Decree of the President of Ukraine No.
140/2021 dated April 3, 2021 "On the decision of the National Security and Defence
Council of Ukraine on the application of special economic and other restrictive measures
(sanctions)", the functioning of the RCSC as a separate entity was suspended and it was
denied the right to rent buildings/premises in Kiev.
In order to avoid possible provocations, by agreement with the Russian Embassy
in Ukraine, the RCSC activities were moved to the embassy and carried out remotely.
Beginning in 2014 and continuing until mid-2020, representatives of Ukrainian
right-wing radical forces repeatedly committed unlawful acts against the Russian Centre
for Science and Culture in Kiev:
- During 2014-2017, numerous threatening phone calls were made to the
management of the Centre, as well as threats in social networks (application No. 10423
dated 25.09.14 to Podolskoye Department of the MIA of Ukraine (RU GUMVD) in Kiev;
application No. 10563 dated 30.08.16 to Podolskoye Department of the Chief Directorate
of the National Police of Ukraine (UP GUNP) in Kiev);
- On 15 April 2016, a group of radicals damaged the façade of the Centre's
building and set fire to tyres, smoke bombs, smoke-puff charges, etc. (application No.
5908 of 11.05.16 to the Podolskoye Department of the Chief Directorate of the National
Annex 13 Exhibit N
Police of Ukraine (UP GUNP) in Kiev)
- On July 7, 2016, a group of radicals disrupted an event: the presentation of
the book "Where did the Russian land come from" by Ukraine NAS academician P.
Tolochko, and also damaged the property of the Centre (application No. 8852 of 15.07.16
to the Podolskoye Department of the Chief Directorate of the National Police of Ukraine
(UP GUNP) in Kiev);
- On 13 July 2016, a group of radicals damaged the façade of the Centre's building
(application No. 8853 of 15.07.16 to the Podolskoye Department of the Chief Directorate
of the National Police of Ukraine (UP GUNP) in Kiev);
- On 8 April 2017, radicals illegally broke into the territory of the Centre and
disrupted the Total Dictation event (application No. 4213 of 11.04.17 to the Podolskoye
Department of the Chief Directorate of the National Police of Ukraine (UP GUNP) in
Kiev);
- On 14 August 2017, provocative graffiti were sprayed by a group of radicals
(application No. 2378 of 15.08.17 to the Podolskoye Department of the Chief Directorate
of the National Police of Ukraine (UP GUNP) in Kiev);
- On October 4, 2017, a group of radicals committed acts of hooliganism
against the property of the Centre (application No. 11147 of 04.10.17 to the Podolskoye
Department of the Chief Directorate of the National Police of Ukraine (UP GUNP) in
Kiev).
Exhibit O
Newsline of Crimea, International Native Language Day (20 February 2021)
(translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit O
Translation
Newsline of Crimea, International Native Language Day (20 February 2021), available at:
https://crimea-news.com/society/2021/02/20/762038.html.
21 February - International Native Language Day
20.02.2021, 15:42 | Society
Native Language Day is a holiday that began to be celebrated not so long ago. On
this day, everyone should think about their native language, about whether we are
littering it with unnecessary words and whether we speak it correctly. And also on
this day we should remember how many languages there are in the world, and each
of them should be appreciated. After all, a language is a nation's culture. Getting to
know other languages helps us to understand how interesting and diverse the world
is.
At all times languages have originated, existed, and then died out, sometimes
without even leaving a trace. But never before did they disappear so quickly.
Russia is a multinational state. Today, according to UNESCO, 136 languages are
endangered in Russia and 20 of them have already been declared dead. On average,
two languages disappear every year.
Annex 13 Exhibit O
Linguists try not to waste time and document the many languages that are still in
existence, because scientists think that in a hundred years' time, from 3,000 to
6,000 languages will be extinct.
It is through language that the traditions of peoples live on and that interest in
learning about the world is awakened. It is language that unites people regardless
of where and when they live.
Annex 13 Exhibit O
On the eve of this holiday educational institutions of Armyansk held the festivalcontest
“Language is the soul of the people”. The Central Children's Library of
Armiansk held a literary game programme “Fascinating Grammar” for a group of
1st year students of School No. 1. At the end of the programme, young readers got
acquainted with the book exhibition “The Poetry of Native Language”.
To mark International Native Language Day, the staff of the Levitsky Central City
Library invited everyone to take part in the online readers' marathon "Native
Language - your soul, your world, your ray of light...” They also arranged a book
exhibition called “Language is the confession of the people,” where visitors could
find books, dictionaries, or reference literature on the history of Russian words,
publications on folk accents, culture, customs and traditions of the peoples of our
vast country.
Source: https://armyansk.rk.gov.ru
City: Armyansk
Exhibit P
Public Chamber of the Republic of Crimea, Crimea Celebrates International Native
Language Day (22 February 2022)
(translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit P
Translation
Public Chamber of the Republic of Crimea, Crimea Celebrates International Native
Language Day (22 February 2022), available at: https://opcrimea.ru/novosti/v-krymuotmetili-
mezhdunarodnyj-den-rodnogo-yazyka.html.
Public Chamber of the Republic of Crimea
NEWS
22.02.2022
Crimea Celebrates International Native Language Day
On 21 February, the Ukrainian Community of Crimea, led by its chairperson and member of the
Crimean Public Chamber Anastasia Gridchina, together with the Crimean Republican Universal
Scientific Library named after I. Y. Franko, held an event on the occasion of International Native
Language Day.
The celebration was attended by representatives of national and cultural associations of the Republic of
Crimea, among them: member of the RPO "Ukrainian Community of Crimea", Crimean writer Marina
Geydiunas, chairman of the RNCA "Belarusians of Crimea" Roman Chegrinets, member of the RNCA
"Belarusians of Crimea", member of the Union of Writers of the Republic of Crimea Igor Klossovsky,
Deputy Chairman of the RPO "Russian Community of Crimea" Natalia Lantukh, Deputy Chairman of the
Paisiy Hilendarski Regional Bulgarian National Cultural Autonomy of the Republic of Crimea Lyudmila
Radeva.
The attendees discussed the issues of preservation and development of the native languages of the
nationalities living both in our republic and throughout Russia. Each presented his or her native language,
describing its lexical, phonetic and stylistic features. In addition to formal guest speeches, the programme
of the event included a poetry reading in the national languages.
Annex 13 Exhibit P
“Language is the soul of a nation. It is the spiritual carrier of history, culture and memory. The love of
one's native language unites ethnic groups into a multilingual humanity, able to communicate with one
another, to speak with one another, as they say, heart to heart. International Native Language Day is first
and foremost about protecting languages that are disappearing. And this is an important objective,
because each month two languages disappear in the world. Only 3% of the world's population speak 96%
of all languages, an average of 30,000 speakers per language (if we exclude the 4% of the most widely
spoken languages). And of the six thousand languages existing in the world, over 200 are now considered
extinct and have no living speakers. A native language is an expression of self-awareness and the link
between generations, which is necessary for the development of every person. Take care of your native
language!”, wrote Anastasia Gridchina on social media.
Exhibit Q
Russian Community of Crimea, Native Language Day in Saki (21 February 2018)
(translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit Q
Translation
Russian Community of Crimea, Native Language Day in Saki (21 February 2018), available
at: http://www.ruscrimea.ru/2018/02/21/6038.htm.
Native Language Day in Saki
On 21 February, Saki School-Gymnasium No. 6 hosted celebrations dedicated to Native
Language Day. More than four hundred students took part in the Olympiad on Russian,
Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar languages. They were congratulated by the deputy of the
State Council of the Republic of Crimea, chairman of Saki district organisation of the
Russian Community of Crimea Stanislav Matveyev, and deputy chairman of the Saki City
Council and chairman of the Saki City Organisation of the Russian Community of Crimea
Mikhail Kashirin.
During the event, there was dancing and singing and an award ceremony for the winners.
Stanislav Matveyev and Mikhail Kashirin spoke with kind words of gratitude to all the
winners and were supported by the secretary of the local branch of the United Russia Party
Sergey Gnatiuk.
Press service of Saki city and district organisations of the Russian Community of Crimea
Exhibit R
School No. 20 of Feodosia, Republic of Crimea, Shevchenko Days (21 April 2022)
(translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit R
Translation
School No. 20 of Feodosia, Republic of Crimea, Shevchenko Days (21 April 2022), available
at: https://feosch20.educrimea.ru/about/news/page/3.
News
Shevchenko Days
21.04.2022
School No. 20 in Feodosia, Republic of Crimea, joined the celebrations of the 208th anniversary of Taras
Shevchenko's birth.
On 21-25.03, a number of events were held as part of the Ukrainian Language and Literature Week
"Shevchenko Days." Our educational institution did not stand aside and honoured the memory of the
Great Kobzar (Bard).
21.03 Literary and musical composition "Spiritual treasure of the Ukrainian people - the cultural heritage
of Taras Shevchenko."
22.03 Ukrainian folk costume contest "Wreath".
23.03 Spring Festival.
24.03 Honouring the great Ukrainian thinker, poet, and artist: Shevchenko Readings.
25.03 Exhibition of works and reproductions of paintings by the Great Kobzar.
Exhibit S
Academy of Humanities and Education, Memory of Lesya Ukrainka Honoured with a Series of
Events (25 February 2016)
(translation)
Annex 13 Exhibit S
Translation
Academy of Humanities and Education, Memory of Lesya Ukrainka Honoured with a Series
of Events (25 February 2016), available at: https://gpa.cfuv.ru/ru/novosti-2016-god/2072-
pamyat-lesi-ukrainki-pochtili-ryadom-meropriyatij.
Memory of Lesya Ukrainka Honoured with a Series of Events
Olga Aleksandrovna Molchanova
On 25 February, a literary and art festival "Seven strings" dedicated to the 145th anniversary of
Lesya Ukrainka, a Ukrainian writer, took place at the Academy of Humanities and Education.
Every year people gather to pay homage to this woman with a difficult but glorious fate. It is
known that a severe illness brought her to Crimea, and the writer devoted part of her life to
describing in her verse the beautiful landscapes that inspired her during her stay on the
peninsula. The poetess had many fond memories of Yalta, where she lived for several years and
wrote some of her best known works.
The celebration got off to a creative start with a recitation competition "A Crimean collage."
Students of the Academy for Humanities and Education, Yalta schoolchildren and students of
Yalta Medical College delighted the audience with their interpretation of Lesya Ukrainka's
poetry. The jury assessed the thematic orientation of the chosen poem, the craftsmanship and the
artistic and performance level of the reading, as well as the elements of stage costume.
According to the results of the jury's decision, the best reciters were Anna Makarova, Sofiya
Alexeyeva and Olga Batura.
Annex 13 Exhibit S
Inspired by the poetry, participants and guests went to the Lesya Ukrainka Museum to lay
flowers at her monument.
The program continued in the Memorial Museum of Lesya Ukrainka, where a multimedia
presentation on the history of the museum was arranged for the guests, beginning with the very
first exhibition "Lesya Ukrainka and Crimea" presented 25 years ago, and a documentary about
the street named after the writer. An exhibition of sculptures dedicated to the 105th anniversary
of the famous "Forest Song" was presented in the hall of the Museum. A small concert was given
by the Stepan Rudansky Bandura Group, whose many-year artistic director is Inna Shintiapina
and concert master is Iryna Kurovskaya.
At the end of the evening, students and teachers of the Academy of Humanities and Education
prepared a theatrical production - a triptych "Lesya’s Love", directed by Tatiana Pavlovna
Pavliuk, Candidate of Sciences (Philology), Associate Professor of the Department of Russian
and Ukrainian Philology and Methods of Teaching.
“Previously, this festival was an annual event and we held it every time within the walls of our
university, now the academy. However, due to recent events, the tradition was interrupted in the
last two years, and today we have tried to revive it. I don't know in what format it will be held in
the next few years, but I'm just happy that people have responded to the recitation competition
and have taken part in the performance. That's very gratifying.
If there were no people to do it for, nothing would ever get done. We were really looking
forward to this day, we prepared very intensively and it has finally arrived. We will see what
fruit it will bear in the future," Tatiana Pavlovna shares her impressions.
Centre for Public Relations of the Humanitarian and Pedagogical Academy, Vernadsky KFU,
Anastasia Rekhina
Annex 14
Witness Statement of , 2 March 2023
(translation)
Annex 14
INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE
APPLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION
FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF THE FINANCING OF TERRORISM AND
INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON THE ELIMINATION OF
ALL FORMS OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION
(UKRAINE V. RUSSIAN FEDERATION)
WITNESS STATEMENT
OF
2 MARCH 2023
Annex 14
Page 2 out of 4
Annex 14
Page 4 out of 4
important for us, heroes. This is how the “Heroic Portrait Theatre” series was born. In
2022, for example, we staged a play about the life of the famous singer Sabriye
Eredcepova called “Sabriy”’. A drama play about Soviet ace pilot, Crimean Tatar Amet-
Khan Sultan, has been released recently.
7. The funding provided to us from the regional budget of the Republic of Crimea covers all
the necessary expenses of the Theatre. Now we spend all the proceeds from ticket sales
on bonuses for the staff and the troupe. Also, as part of the approved by the Government
of the Russian Federation federal target programme “Social and Economic Development
of the Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol until 2025”, the long-awaited capital
repair of the Theatre's building was carried out from 2019 to 2021.
8. We are also sure that everyone who preserves and enhances the culture of the Crimean
Tatar people should cooperate closely and help each other. Therefore, if necessary, we
provide our premises to the Crimean Muftiyat and various folk art ensembles. We hold
some events together with the Media Centre n.a. Ismail Gasprinsky under the aegis of the
State Committee on Inter-Ethnic Relations of the Republic of Crimea, which promotes
Crimean Tatar literature and press.
9. As far as I know as a Crimean Tatar and head of a Crimean Tatar cultural collective, the
Crimean Tatar community does not experience any discrimination and is free to develop
its culture and language.
10. I hereby confirm that, to the best of my knowledge and beliefs, the information set out in
this witness statement is true.
Witness
[Signature]
Simferopol, 2 March 2023
Annex 14
LIST OF EXHIBITS
Number: Name of exhibit:
Exhibit A Culture of the Orenburg region, The Concert Tour of Crimean Tatar
Musical Drama Theatre Opens in the Orenburg Region (28 September
2022).
Exhibit B Rambler, Crimean Tatar Theatre Brings Gogol's Comedy “The Marriage”
to Orenburg (29 September 2018).
Exhibit A
Culture of the Orenburg region, The Concert Tour of Crimean Tatar Musical Drama
Theatre Opens in the Orenburg Region (28 September 2022)
(translation)
Annex 14 Exhibit A
Translation
Culture of the Orenburg region, The Concert Tour of Crimean Tatar Musical Drama Theatre
Opens in the Orenburg Region (28 September 2022), available at:
https://kultura.orb.ru/news/front/view/id/3623.
The Concert Tour of Crimean Tatar Musical Drama
Theatre Opens in the Orenburg Region
28 September 2022
The world's only Crimean Tatar State Academic Musical Drama Theatre is on tour in Orenburg.
Three performances of "The Marriage", based on the play by Nikolai Gogol, will take place on the
stage of the Regional Drama Theatre named after M. Gorky. Before the start of the performances, a
press conference was held in the Orenburg drama theatre for the actors of the theatre troupe from
Simferopol and representatives of the host theatre.
Opening the press conference, Vitaly Zimakov, Head of the Department of Culture, Art, and
Educational Policy of the Ministry of Culture and Foreign Relations of the Orenburg region noted
that the Crimean Tatar State Academic Musical Drama Theatre is a unique theatre, a synthetic,
versatile theatre able to work in different formats. A representative of the regional department
recalled that in 2016, the team took part in the "Gostiny Dvor" International Festival in Orenburg
with the play "Arshin mal alan", where the musical comedy by prominent Azerbaijani composer
Uzeyir Hajibekov was performed to a full house.
The tour of the Crimean Tatar Theatre to Orenburg region is held within the framework of the
federal target programme "Grand Tours". The Orenburg State Drama Theatre named after Maxim
Gorky recently went on tour to Simferopol, where it gave performances of three plays from its
repertoire: "Butterball", "Six Dishes from One Chicken" and "Love and Pigeons".
Eldar Dzhelilov, the art director of the Crimean Tatar Theatre, noted that exchange tours help
improve the actors' skills and create a common theatrical space:
- We have to create, giving the audience spiritual food for thought, educating young generation
through professionally staged performances, he said, noting that his colleagues liked works of the
Orenburg Drama Theatre, especially performances for youth.
Simferopol actors with pleasure get acquainted with new productions of the Orenburg Drama
Theatre. The visiting team also met with the management of the M. Fayzi State Tatar Theatre.
Director of the Crimean troupe Mejide Melgazieva said that this meeting resulted in ideas for
further joint projects of the Orenburg and Simferopol national theatres. The more so because
Orenburg audiences like Crimeans like comedies a lot.
According to Refat Seit-Ablayev, head of the literary department of the Crimean Tatar Music and
Drama Theatre, their repertoire includes plays based on works by world classics and outstanding
national authors:
Annex 14 Exhibit A
- Playing the performances in Crimean Tatar, Tatar and Russian, the actors rely on a deep
knowledge of different cultures and peculiarities of speech, creative platforms and genre accents.
Thanks to this, the audience accepts both Shakespeare and Gogol: the classics are always relevant to
everyone.
The author of the stage version of Gogol's "Marriage" at the National Theatre of Simferopol is the
Honoured Art Worker of Russia Vladimir Magar. It was his idea to include in the plot of the classic
comedy Gogol excerpts from his letters and an earlier version of the play called "The Marriage".
The production consists of a number of captivating scenes in which the plot is enriched by many
details, explicit intricacies and daydreams in dreams, comic and even fantastic elements. "Marriage"
by the Crimean Tatar Theatre is distinguished by its musical sound, original recitatives, expressive
language of plastique and gestures, ballet elements and multi-layered action.
The finale of the performance "The Marriage" staged by the Crimean Tatar Music and Drama
Theatre conveys the atmosphere of celebration, created by the joyful and harmonious performance.
The audience of different ages and professions, who attended the performance, are happy to see it
again to laugh, enjoy the character characters, numerous mishaps and recharge positive mood.
The tour of the Crimean Tatar Theatre continues. On September 29 and October 1 the performance
Marriage (12 years +) will be performed at the Orenburg Drama Theatre.
For reference:
The first national theatre of the Crimean Tatars was opened in 1901 in Bakhchisaray. At that time,
according to the laws of Islam, all roles, even female ones, were performed by men. The Crimean
Tatar theatre school started to develop rapidly in the 20s. It was based on cherished Crimean Tatar
national traditions, inspiration and dedication of gifted actors, stage directors and playwrights.
Since 1922, in addition to national plays, the theatre staged the plays of Shakespeare, Moliere,
Goldoni and Beaumarchais. This time is called the "Crimean Tatar Renaissance". The National
Theatre was revived in 1989 and it immediately aroused not only great interest but also a powerful
spiritual outburst of the whole nation. Since then, several dozens of performances of different
genres, from puppet shows to musical and dramatic productions, have been staged in this unique
cultural institution.
Today the theatre is the centre of Crimean Tatar culture. The team tours a lot abroad: USA,
Romania, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Germany, Cyprus, Azerbaijan etc. In 2002 it was awarded with the
high title of "Academic". The theatre has repeatedly taken part in various theatre festivals, including
the Chekhov Festival in Yalta, the World Shakespeare Festival in Edinburgh and festivals in
Switzerland and Turkey. In addition, the theatre holds its own festival called "Crimean Ark».
Annex 14 Exhibit A
Exhibit B
Rambler, Crimean Tatar Theatre Brings Gogol's Comedy “The Marriage” to
Orenburg (29 September 2018)
(translation)
Annex 14 Exhibit B
Translation
Rambler, Crimean Tatar Theatre Brings Gogol's Comedy “The Marriage” to Orenburg (29
September 2018), available at: https://news.rambler.ru/other/40920619-krymskotatarskiyteatr-
privez-v-orenburg-gogolevskuyu-komediyu-zhenitba/.
Crimean Tatar theatre brings Gogol's comedy “The Marriage”
to Orenburg
ProOren
The Crimean Tatar State Academic Musical and Drama Theatre came to Orenburg on tour with a
Gogol comedy. The play is performed in Russian, with inserts in Tatar.
Two years ago, Simferopol artists already came to the "Gostiny Dvor" international festival with the
play "Arshin mal alan". This time it was "The Marriage", based on Gogol's play. The artists came to
Orenburg thanks to the "Big Tour" federal programme. Our Region has taken part in it for many
years. During this time, the people of Orenburg saw the productions of the Theatre on Malaya
Bronnaya, the Obraztsov Puppet Theatre and the Orenburg State Puppet Theatre. During this time,
the people of Orenburg have seen the performances of the Malaya Bronnaya Theatre and the
Obraztsov Puppet Theatre and the Yermolova Theatre.
The troupe came on a return visit - in mid-September the actors of the Orenburg Drama Theatre
returned from their tour in Crimea. The guest actors presented three productions: "Love and
Pigeons", "Butterball" and "Six Dishes from one Chicken". Around 1.5 thousand people attended
the performance.
Crimean Tatar Music and Drama Theatre is unique because of its synthetic nature. It combines
drama, comedy, music and dance. The artists successfully tour various cities and participate in
international festivals of Turkic-speaking theatres.
Annex 14 Exhibit B
"Due to the fact that Orenburg is the birthplace of the Turkic-speaking professional theatre
movement, I think the presence of the Crimean Tatar theatre in our city is absolutely justified," said
Vitaly Zimakov, Head of the Department of Culture, Art and Educational Policy of the Orenburg
region.
Initially, the artists from Simferopol were going to present their latest premiere - a musical
performance "Legends of Love" - to the people of Orenburg. It was for this performance that the
Orenburg audience bought tickets. However, shortly before its arrival the theatre was forced to
change the previously announced performance for "The Marriage". The actors were worried, but in
vain: no one turned in a ticket back to the box office.
"We work with great love and respect for the audience. We perform in Russian or Tatar - it doesn't
matter. We do each performance with great dedication. I hope viewers will see and feel this,"
Mezhide Melgazieva, director of the Crimean Tatar Theatre, said.
Due to the national identity of the theatre, its repertoire includes many productions of plays by
Turkic authors. Of course, it cannot do without classics as well: Shakespeare, Chekhov and Gogol
are staged. However, as the artists themselves admit, they perform in their native Tatar language in
a more natural and authentic way.
"Crimea has always been at a crossroads - Turkic-speaking peoples, Slavs, Goths, Irish tribes lived
here. We love our land, our language, our culture, but we are also very international. Many of us
graduated from Russian-language schools," said Seit-Ablayev, who played the silly, stuck-up sailor
Zhevakin.
Many have been familiar with the classics since their school years. The comic story revolves around
the hapless groom Podkolesin, whom everyone tries to marry. But during the course of the
performance the main hero is tormented by doubts: "Is the marriage really necessary? Is the bride
worthy? Is he ready for such a step?"
Even if you have reread the play more than once, it is definitely worth going to see the it. In
addition to the classic comedy, director Vladimir Magar included excerpts from the writer's letters
and an earlier version of Gogol's play The Bridegrooms.
The performance by the Crimean Tatar theatre is kind, light and funny in a good way. The
hyperbolised drama of the actors did not seem to confuse the audience in Orenburg. Everything was
in place: expressive facial expressions, exaggerated images, naive dialogues of the bride and groom.
This did not irritate - on the contrary, it brought a smile and sincere laughter. The production
successfully combined vivid acting, recitatives, choral singing, dance scenes and other techniques
typical of synthetic theatre.
"The Crimean Tatar theatre performed "The Marriage" to great acclaim and gave the actors a
standing ovation. The play will be staged again on the stage of the Orenburg Drama Theatre on 29
September and 1 October.
Annex 15
Second Witness Statement of , 27 February 2023
(translation)
Annex 15
INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE
APPLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION
FOR THE SUPPRESSION OF THE FINANCING OF TERRORISM AND
INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON THE ELIMINATION OF
ALL FORMS OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION
(UKRAINE V. RUSSIAN FEDERATION)
SECOND WITNESS STATEMENT
OF
27 FEBRUARY 2023
Annex 15
Page 2 out of 11
Annex 15
Page 3 out of 11
1. I, , declare the following.
2. I have previously given witness statement in support of the Counter-Memorial of the
Russian Federation on the dispute with Ukraine before the International Court of Justice
(the “First Witness Statement”). In it, I highlighted a number of issues, in particular the
following:
(a) In more than 20 years of its activities, the Mejlis failed to resolve any problem of
the Crimean Tatar people, for the reasons including misappropriation and
inefficient spending, by the Mejlis leaders, of funds allocated to resolve such
problems.
(b) In 2014, the Crimean Tatar congress, the Qurultay, decided to cooperate with the
authorities of the Russian Federation in order to deal with problems of Crimean
Tatars. Despite this, the leaders of the Mejlis, in particular Mustafa Dzhemilev,
Refat Chubarov, and Lenur Islyamov, violated the Qurultay decision and organised
a food and energy blockade of the Peninsula. In this way, these individuals left
Crimean Tatars alone with their problems and, in addition, tried to worsen their
living conditions in Crimea.
(c) The Mejlis leaders who left Crimea failed in their attempt to convene a new
Qurultay.
(d) In the absence of any steps to improve the lives of Crimean Tatars on the part of the
Mejlis, it was decided, at the suggestion of the Mufti of Crimea, to appoint
representatives of Crimean Tatars in various spheres of life at the Qurultay of
Muslims of Crimea who would safeguard the interests of Crimean Tatars. These
representatives were subsequently included in the Council of the Crimean Tatar
People under the auspices of the Head of the Republic of Crimea, which informs
the authorities and participates in solving of everyday problems of Crimean Tatars.
(e) Since the reunification of Crimea with the Russian Federation, Crimean Tatars have
received support they did not have for 20 years. That support includes Decree
No. 268 dated 21 April 2014 “On some Measures for Rehabilitation of the
Armenian, Bulgarian, Greek, Crimean Tatar and German Peoples and StateS for
Their Revival and Development”, which provides for comprehensive support for
Annex 15
Page 4 out of 11
Crimean Tatars; reconstruction and new construction of Crimean Tatar architectural
complexes and mosques; assistance in the organisation of Hajj; support for religious
educational institutions, etc.
(f) The Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Crimea has condemned the activities
of Hizb ut-Tahrir and repeatedly – and unsuccessfully - tried to draw the attention
of the Ukrainian authorities to the danger of the ideas promoted by this organisation.
3. Having read Ukraine's Reply to the Russian Federation’s Counter-Memorial (“Ukraine's
Reply”), I find that Ukraine has ignored the facts to which I refer in my witness statement.
Regarding the Mejlis and its role in representing the interests of Crimean Tatars, Ukraine's
arguments ignore the reality and the destructive role that the Mejlis played for the
Crimean Tatar community on the Peninsula. As for the support provided by the Russian
authorities to the cultural heritage of Crimean Tatars and Muslims of Crimea, no response
has been given to that part of my First Witness Statement at all.
4. I comment below on some of the arguments in Ukraine's Reply.
A. ON FAILURE TO SUBSTANTIATE THE ARGUMENT ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF MEJLIS
FOR POLITICAL REPRESENTATION OF CRIMEAN TATARS
5. Ukraine’s Reply cites the position of several former Mejlis leaders who left for Kiev as
being identical to the position of all Crimean Tatars living in Crimea. This is untrue for
several reasons.
6. First, people who do not live in Crimea are unlikely to have full information about life on
the Peninsula and cannot make decisions crucial for Crimean residents. For the same
reason, for example, as I pointed out in my First Witness Statement, Crimean Tatar
diasporas living abroad have generally not actively participated in Qurultays and have
spoken at them without voting rights.1 Thus, the former Mejlis leaders who are in Kiev
now cannot be considered Crimean Tatar representatives, if only due to the fact that they
have left Crimea, have not been there for years and committed unlawful acts against the
interests of Crimean Tatars in Crimea.
1 First Witness Statement, Counter-Memorial (CERD), Annex 19, ¶20.
Annex 15
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7. Second, the actions of the Mejlis and its former leaders after 2014 the Qurultay's decision
to cooperate with the Russian Federation’s authorities for the purpose of improving the
living conditions of Crimean Tatars on the Peninsula. Since 2014, Dzhemilev and his
associates have not only failed to address the problems of Crimean Tatars, but on the
contrary - aggravated them with their actions organising a blockade of the Peninsula, thus
violating their mandate received from the Qurultay.
8. Third, Ukraine's claims that all (or at least most) Crimean Tatars support Dzhemilev,
Chubarov and their supporters are completely unfounded. According to various sources,
support for the Mejlis even before 2014 among Crimean Tatars did not exceed 20%2
(although I personally believe that Dzhemilev's Mejlis actual support figures are much
lower). I well remember that Dzhemilev himself also stated that the support of Crimean
Tatars for the Mejlis was 10-15%. Even when the Mejlis was operating in Crimea, half
of its members, namely 16 people, did not support Dzhemilev.3 Moreover, the Crimean
Tatar community opposed the actions of Dzhemilev’s Mejlis, considering it an
illegitimate body having no right to claim representation of Crimean Tatar interests.4
9. Fourth, attempts by the former Mejlis leaders to convene a Qurultay in Ukraine where
members of the Mejlis could be re-elected have ended in failure. Thus, Dzhemilev,
Chubarov and those associated with them have no right to claim authority to represent
Crimean Tatars in any case.
10. Finally, it is incorrect to call the Mejlis a body of political representation of Crimean
Tatars, as political power as such has never been the goal of any association of Crimean
Tatars. The Mejlis has never been registered as a political party in Crimea and had no
official status in principle. Moreover, its relations with the Ukrainian authorities were
2 Milli Firka, Mejlis Only Controls 20% of Crimean Tatar Electorate (30 August 2010), available at: http://millifirka.
org//меджлис-контролирует-лишь-20-крымскота/ (Exhibit A); Moskovsky Komsomolets, Opponent of
Mejlis Uncovered a Bloody Scenario (21 March 2014), available at:
https://www.mk ru/politics/interview/2014/03/21/1002049-kryimskie-tataryi-raskololis-protivnik-medzhlisarasskazal-
o-krovavom-stsenarii.html (Exhibit B).
3 Nezavisimaya Gazeta, Split in Mejlis, Crimean Tatar Leaders Are Not Able to Agree among Themselves (31
March 1998), available at: https://sites.ualberta.ca/~khineiko/NG_97_99/1149200 htm (Exhibit C). Milli Firka,
Who and How Ripped Off the People in the Mejlis (25 March 2011), available at: http://milli-firka.org/кто-и-как-
в-меджлисе-обворовывал-народ, available at: milli-firka.org/who-and-how-in-the-majlis-robbed-the-people/
(Exhibit D).
4 New Day, Crimean Tatars Impeach Dzhemilev (PHOTOS) (21 November 2011), available at:
https://newdaynews.ru/crimea/359035 html (Exhibit E).
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tense and periodically degenerated into open confrontation and hostility. For example,
Ukraine sometimes likened the Mejlis with an extremist Wahhabi group, and occasionally
threatened to strip Crimean Tatars of representation in government.5 For its part, the
Mejlis repeatedly openly boycotted meetings of the Council of Representatives of the
Crimean Tatar People under the auspices of the President of Ukraine6 because of the
differences of opinion between them.7
B. ON THE BASELESSNESS OF CRITICISM OF THE COUNCIL OF CRIMEAN TATARS UNDER
THE HEAD OF THE REPUBLIC OF CRIMEA ELECTED AT THE QURULTAY OF CRIMEAN
MUSLIMS
11. As I already mentioned in my First Witness Statement, after some members of the Mejlis
had left Crimea and stopped dealing with day-to-day problems of Crimean Tatars, on the
initiative of the Mufti of Crimea, authoritative representatives of Crimean Tatars in
various spheres (religious, cultural, educational etc.) were elected at the Qurultay of
Muslims of Crimea; these representatives subsequently became members of the Council
of Crimean Tatars under the auspices of the Head of the Republic of Crimea (“Council”).
12. The Council collects information about issues that require attention directly from the
population – its representatives travel to different cities and towns, talk to people and find
out what they are concerned about. 8 In cooperation with the authorities and
municipalities,9 the Council draws attention to the problems identified and helps develop
solutions.
5 GLAVKOM, Wahhabi Wave Rising in Crimea (19 July 2010), available at:
https://glavcom.ua/publications/43823-v-krymu-podnimaetsja-volna-vahhabizma.html (Exhibit F).
6 LB.ua, Mejlis Delivers Ultimatum to Yanukovych (30 August 2010), available at:
https://lb.ua/news/2010/08/30/62787_medzhlis_vidvinul_yanukovichu_ulti.html (Exhibit G).
7 New Day, Opinion: Mejlis to Get No Concessions from Yanukovych (30 August 2010), available at:
https://newdaynews.ru/crimea/298375 html/amp/ (Exhibit H).
8 Official Website of Saki District, Representatives of Crimean Tatar Council under Head of Crimea Visit Saki
and Saki District (17 September 2018), available at: http://sakirs ru/rajonnaya-administratsiya/prioritety-ra/33-
press-sluzhba/novosti/3222-predstaviteli-soveta-krymskikh-tatar-pri-glave-respubliki-krym-posetili-sakskijrajon-
i-g-saki (Exhibit I).
9 Official Website of Muftiyat, Crimean Tatar Council Begins Working with Crimean Municipalities (PHOTO)
(26 July 2018), available at: https://qmdi ru/sovet-kryimskih-tatar-nachal-sovmestnuyu-rabotu-s-munitsipalnyimiobrazovaniyami-
kryima-foto/ (Exhibit J).
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13. Another important task of the Council is to remove obstacles to the development of
Crimean Tatar culture: providing new premises for the library and museum, sending
young people to study at the Institute of Literature so that the Crimean Tatar language
could develop.10 The Council also oversees important cultural events: organizing events
on the Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Deportation of the Crimean Tatar People,11
celebrating the Day of the Crimean Tatar Flag.12 Activities to promote Crimean Tatar
culture abroad are also important - for example, the Council has co-organised the Istanbul
Festival of Crimean Tatar Culture.13
14. Criticism of the Qurultay of Crimean Muslims as a body representing Crimean Tatars on
the Ukrainian side is inconsistent: on the one hand, Ukraine claims that the defining
feature of Crimean Tatars is their commitment to “moderate” Islam,14 and at the same
time attention is drawn to the fact that the Qurultay of Crimean Muslims does not
represent the interests of Crimean Tatars.15 Under normal circumstances, the Qurultay of
the Muslims of Crimea should indeed deal mainly with religious issues. However, the
Qurultay of Crimean Muslims and the Mufti were the only figures whose authority and
sincerity of desire to improve the lives of Crimean Tatars could not be questioned and
were taken into account by Crimean Tatars in Crimea. As I pointed out earlier, the
Crimean Tatar community under Noman Chelebidzhikhan elected its representatives,
including on secular socio-political issues, at the Qurultay of Muslims of Crimea, as the
10Official Website of Muftiyat, The Council of the Crimean Tatar People Has Set Its Priorities (PHOTO) (5
March 2018), available at: https://qmdi.ru/sovet-kryimskotatarskogo-naroda-ozvuchil-pervoocherednyie-zadachifoto
(Exhibit K).
11 Official Website of Muftiyat, Head of Crimea and Council of Crimean Tatars Discuss Action Plan for 18th of
May (15 May 2018), available at: https://qmdi ru/glava-respubliki-kryim-i-sovet-kryimskih-tatar-obsudili-planmeropriyatiy-
na-18-maya (Exhibit L).
12 Official Website of Muftiyat, “Our Future’s Based on Mutual Respect”, Hadji Emirali Ablayev Says (26 June
2022), available at: https://qmdi.ru/hadzhi-emirali-ablaev-vzaimouvazhenie-eto-osnova-nashego-budushhego/
(Exhibit M).
13 Official Website of Crimean Tatar Museum of Cultural and Historical Heritage, Crimean Tatar Museum’s
Employees Participate in Crimean Tatar Culture Festival in Istanbul (December 2019), available at:
https://krtmuseum ru/sotrudniki-krymskotatarskogo-muzeya-prinyali-uchastie-v-festivale-kultury-krymskihtatar-
v-stambule/ (Exhibit N).
14 Memorial, ¶¶357, 581.
15 Reply, ¶482.
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secular and religious Qurultays represent the same population and have the same
audience.16
15. Separately, I would like to emphasise my indignation at Ukraine's unfounded claims that
the Mufti is allegedly an apostate.17 Apostasy is the most serious charge that can be
brought against a Muslim; a Muslim who wrongly claims that another Muslim has
apostatized is himself considered an apostate. I am outraged at how cynically Ukraine
uses such unsubstantiated slander.
16. As for the Council itself, Ukraine’s criticism thereof is based only on its alleged being
under the control of the Russian Federation. 18 However, it is clear that the real
legitimization of a particular Crimean Tatar representative body is its actual work and
support of the Crimean Tatar people in Crimea. As I already pointed out in the First
Witness Statement, over more than 20 years of its existence the Mejlis has not achieved
any significant improvements in the lives of Crimean Tatars, and its influence was rapidly
declining even before the reunification of Crimea with Russia, but it was ultimately lost
after the former leaders of the Mejlis became involved in extremist activities undermining
the interests of Crimean Tatars and other peoples of Crimea. I would also like to note that
according to Ukraine's own logic, the Mejlis, which organized the extremist blockade of
Crimea and deprived thousands of people of water and electricity, operates under
Ukrainian control because after 2014 Ukraine made the activities of the Mejlis official
and began to provide it with funding.19 As for the Council, the real improvement in the
lives of Crimean Tatars (both materially and spiritually) during the Council's operation is
supported by numerous facts, which have not been refuted in any way.
17. I have already drawn attention to these facts in the First Witness Statement.20 They
include the holding of numerous commemorative events for the Crimean Tatar
population, the resolution of the land and housing issues (the construction of apartment
buildings for Crimean Tatars has been organised, and they have obtained legal ownership
16 First Witness Statement, Counter-Memorial (CERD), Annex 19, ¶22.
17 Reply, ¶482.
18 Reply, ¶483.
19 Komsomolskaya Pravda, Ukraine to Spend UAH 60 mln on Mejlis (2 March 2016), available at:
https://www.crimea.kp ru/online/news/2322782/ (Exhibit O).
20 First Witness Statement, Counter-Memorial (CERD), Annex 19, ¶26.
Annex 15
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of land; assist Crimean Tatars in obtaining previously unavailable utilities, gas and water
supply). The Council constantly hold meetings on the subject of social benefits for
Crimean Tatars and commemorating their prominent representatives.
18. Thus, Ukraine's critical arguments do not take into account the real improvements that
have taken place with the Council's assistance, with regard to the rights of Crimean Tatars
in all spheres of their lives.
C. REGARDING EXCAVATION ON THE TAVRIDA HIGHWAY
19. As for the alleged “destruction of Muslim graves” during the construction of the Tavrida
highway, it is not clear to me what is meant by “destruction”. Standard archaeological
reconnaissance work was carried out in the area designated for the construction of this
highway, which resulted in the discovery of ancient burial sites of which scientists had
not been previously aware. It is my understanding that the archaeological findings were
submitted for research and subsequently transferred to a museum.21 No Islamic canons
have been violated by these archaeological works.22
20. For all the Muslim graves that have been discovered during the construction of various
sites in Crimea since the 1990s, the Muftiyat has applied the same spiritual procedures.
Therefore, Ukraine's arguments that the excavations had the purpose or effect of
destroying the cultural heritage of the Crimean Tatars are, in my opinion, untenable.
D. REGARDING RESTORATION OF THE KHAN PALACE
21. Regarding Ukraine's statements about the restoration works of the Khan Palace in
Bakhchisaray. I understand that Ukraine is drawing attention to the fact that many of the
restoration efforts were unnecessary and superfluous, such as in relation to the roof and
the replacement of roof beams are mentioned in this respect.23
22. I am aware of the roof replacement referred to by Ukraine. However, as I pointed out in
the First Witness Statement, all the changes made were necessary to ensure safety. I am
21 NTS, Exhibition of Unique Finds from Tavrida Highway Excavations Opened in Chersonesus – Sevastopol
Independent TV (27 September 2021), available at: https://nts-tv.com/news/vystavku-unikalnykh-nakhodok-sraskopok-
na-trasse--37367/ (Exhibit P).
22 Tavrida Muftiyat, Statement No. 31, 22 February 2023 (Exhibit Q).
23 Reply, ¶654.
Annex 15
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not aware of anyone making accusations about the replaced roof as it was clear that it was
in need of a major repair.
23. From the start of the restoration the Crimean Muftiyat is being regularly informed by the
Crimean Ministry of Culture and the Bakhchisaray Museum about the progress of
restoration works. In addition, the works are also monitored and supervised by a Public
Advisory Board, consisting of impartial public figures and independent experts. 24
Changes that have been or are planned to be made are examined all the time. As I
understand it, the restoration work is proceeding according to the plan.
E. REGARDING THE ALLEGED COERCION TO TAKE RUSSIAN CITIZENSHIP
24. I do not agree with the assertion that the admission of the population of Crimea to Russian
citizenship was forced. Russian citizenship was proposed to all Crimean citizens in order
to avoid bureaucratic delays and ensure the population's access to social benefits. At the
same time, the population was given a free choice to renounce Russian citizenship in
favour of Ukrainian one.
25. I am aware of cases where people did not want to take Russian citizenship and renounced
it, remaining citizens of Ukraine and even left the Crimea, but later come back and made
a request to assist their acceptance to the Russian citizenship and employment. This was
also pointed out by the state authorities.25
24 Official Website of Muftiyat, Social Activists to Monitor Restoration of Khan Palace (22 March 2022), available
at: https://qmdi ru/za-restavracziej-hanskogo-dvorcza-budut-sledit-obshhestvenniki (Exhibit R).
25 RIA Novosti, Over 50% of Those Crimean Tatars Who Left Peninsula after Referendum Have Returned,
Authorities Say (4 August 2015), available at: https://ria ru/20150804/1162301705.html (Exhibit S).
Annex 15
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26. I hereby confirm that to the best of my knowledge and belief the information set out in
this witness statement is correct.
Witness
[Signature]
Simferopol, 27 February 2023
Annex 15
Annex 15
LIST OF EXHIBITS
Number:
Exhibit A
Exhibit B
Exhibit C
Exhibit D
Exhibit E
Exhibit F
Exhibit G
Exhibit H
Exhibit I
Exhibit J
Exhibit K
Exhibit L
Name of exhibit:
Milli Firka, Mejlis Only Controls 20% of Crimean Tatar Electorate (30
August 2010).
Moskovsky Komsomolets, Opponent of Mejlis Uncovered a Bloody
Scenario (21 March 2014).
Nezavisimaya Gazeta, Split in Mejlis, Crimean Tatar Leaders Are Not Able
to Agree among Themselves (31 March 1998).
Milli Firka, Who and How Ripped Off the People in the Mejlis
(25 March 2011).
New Day, Crimean Tatars Impeach Dzhemilev (PHOTOS) (21 November
2011).
GLAVKOM, Wahhabi Wave Rising in Crimea (19 July 2010).
LB.ua, Mejlis Delivers Ultimatum to Yanukovych (30 August 2010).
New Day, Opinion: Mejlis to Get No Concessions from Yanukovych (30
August 2010).
Official Website of Saki District, Representatives of Crimean Tatar
Council under Head of Crimea Visit Saki and Saki District (17 September
2018).
Official Website of Muftiyat, Crimean Tatar Council Begins Working with
Crimean Municipalities (PHOTO) (26 July 2018).
Official Website of Muftiyat, The Council of the Crimean Tatar People
Has Set Its Priorities (PHOTO) (5 March 2018).
Official Website of Muftiyat, Head of Crimea and Council of Crimean
Tatars Discuss Action Plan for 18th of May (15 May 2018).
Annex 15
Exhibit M Official Website of Muftiyat, “Our Future’s Based on Mutual Respect”,
Hadji Emirali Ablayev Says (26 June 2022).
Exhibit N Official Website of Crimean Tatar Museum of Cultural and Historical
Heritage, Crimean Tatar Museum’s Employees Participate in Crimean
Tatar Culture Festival in Istanbul (December 2019).
Exhibit O Komsomolskaya Pravda, Ukraine to Spend UAH 60 mln on Mejlis (2
March 2016).
Exhibit P NTS, Exhibition of Unique Finds from Tavrida Highway Excavations
Opened in Chersonesus – Sevastopol Independent TV (27 September
2021).
Exhibit Q Tavrida Muftiyat, Statement No. 31, 22 February 2023.
Exhibit R Official Website of Muftiyat, Social Activists to Monitor Restoration of
Khan Palace (22 March 2022).
Exhibit S RIA Novosti, Over 50% of Those Crimean Tatars Who Left Peninsula after
Referendum Have Returned, Authorities Say (4 August 2015).
Exhibit A
Milli Firka, Mejlis Only Controls 20% of Crimean Tatar Electorate (30 August 2010)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit A
Translation
Milli Firka, Mejlis Only Controls 20% of Crimean Tatar Electorate (30 August 2010),
available at: http://milli-firka.org//меджлис-контролирует-лишь-20-крымскота/.
30 August 2010
Mejlis Only Controls 20% of Crimean Tatar Electorate
The Mejlis only controls 20% of the Crimean Tatar electorate, Vasvi Abduraimov, Chairman
of the Board of the public organisation Milli Firka, told a reporter of the Crimean News Agency.
In his opinion, while the Mejlis still retains an inertial influence on the Crimean Tatars, it is not
as significant as before. “According to sociological studies, this influence does not exceed
20%”, he said.
At the same time, Mr. Abduraimov stressed that, unlike the Mejlis, Milli Firka is willing to
offer a real constructive programme to resolve the issues faced by the Tatars. He assured that
the political force he leads will go to the elections with concrete proposals rather than with
empty promises.
Vasvi Abduraimov also said Milli Firka, in alliance with the Crimean Republican Organisation
of the Ukrainian Rural Democratic Party, intends to get 6% in the Crimean parliament.
www.kianews.com.ua
Exhibit B
Moskovsky Komsomolets, Opponent of Mejlis Uncovered a Bloody Scenario (21 March 2014)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit B
Translation
Moskovsky Komsomolets, Opponent of Mejlis Uncovered a Bloody Scenario (21 March
2014), available at: https://www.mk.ru/politics/interview/2014/03/21/1002049-kryimskietataryi-
raskololis-protivnik-medzhlisa-rasskazal-o-krovavom-stsenarii.html.
Moskovsky Komsomolets
Crimean Tatars Split. Opponent of Mejlis Uncovered a Bloody Scenario
By Marina Perevozkina
The Crimean Tatars are waiting for Kiev’s command to “do whatever is necessary” and are
preparing their own referendum on the peninsula, according to Mustafa Dzhemilev, a member
of the Verkhovnaya Rada of Ukraine and an ex-head of the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar People.
This sounds like a threat. During the recent days, the Mejlis’ leaders continuously threatened
and frightened Crimean Tatars with a “second deportation” and called them to boycott the
referendum and did not recognise its results. There is a stereotype that the Crimean Tatars are
only the Mejlis. However, the Mejlis does not express the views of all Tatars living in Crimea.
An alternative attitude is represented by the public organisation named Milli Firka whose leader
Vasvi Abduraimov (VA) gave an exclusive interview to a Moskovsky Komsomolets (MK)
observer.
MK: On the eve of the referendum in Crimea, the leaders of the Mejlis of the Crimean
Tatar People called to boycott it. Now they will declare worldwide that the referendum
was illegitimate because the Tatars as an indigenous people of Crimea did not vote...
VA: But they did vote, and we will prove this. Therefore, all their statements will turn out to be
a sham. They are trying to present the case as if the Crimean Tatars were all against the
referendum. But according to official information, more than half of them took part in the
referendum.
MK: In Bakhchysarai, I personally saw empty polling stations in places where Tatars
compactly reside...
VA: Not all Crimean Tatars live compactly. They are scattered across Crimea. Supporters of
Milli Firka, entire clans of relatives of Milli Firka members actively participated in the vote.
Where the Mejlis is strong, the voting activity was, of course, lower. You saw low activity in
Bakhchysarai. But the 11th Gymnasium accommodated three polling stations focused on the
areas where Tatars compactly reside: Fontany, Chistenkoye, and the Ak Mechet. They voted
quite actively.
MK: Whom does Milli Firka unite?
VA: It unites those participants of the Crimean Tatars’ national movement not agreeing with
the policy of the Mejlis’ leadership. Our public organisation was established in 2006.
MK: That is, it is a centre of influence among the Tatars that is alternative to the Mejlis?
Annex 15 Exhibit B
VA: Yes, there are now two centres of influence. Before the establishment of our organisation,
the Mejlis had a complete monopoly. And then there is also a layer of “service-class” Crimean
Tatars who are trying to co-operate with any authority in Crimea. Since the Mejlis has long had
a great influence on staffing issues, they supported it. When the Party of Regions came to power,
they began to work with its local elite.
MK: What is the difference between the positions of the Mejlis and Milli Firka?
VA: The Mejlis, declaring itself as a defender of the rights of the Crimean Tatar people, actually
pursued a policy of assimilation of the Crimean Tatars and their full integration into the
Ukrainian community as part of Ukraine’s movement into the Euro-Atlantic structures. We
support the idea to integrate the Crimean Tatars into the Turkic world within the Eurasian space.
Therefore, we support all integration projects within Eurasia.
MK: Why do the Mejlis’ leaders lean to Kiev?
VA: They rather lean to the masters of Kiev than to Kiev itself.
MK: How do you assess the level of influence by the Mejlis?
VA: Of course, it is still very strong. But I assess the degree of influence by the Mejlis based
on the results of the 2012 elections to the Ukrainian parliament. Then the Mejlis concluded an
alliance with the Batkivshchyna party. Dzhemilev and Chubarov were put on their list. They
have used all their resources to encourage Crimean Tatars to vote for this party. We analysed
the election results based on information from 26 polling stations created in areas where Tatars
compact reside. With a total turnout of about 48%, the Crimean Tatar polling stations showed
37.5%. Of these Crimean Tatars, a little more than one half voted for Batkivshchyna. This
shows the real level of support for the Mejlis: 18%. During these two years, when they lost their
opportunity to dictate staffing policy in Crimea and, therefore, to regulate a certain part of the
financial flows, their positions in the Crimean Tatar community weakened further. According
to my estimates, they are now supported by 15-20% of Tatars. They called to boycott the
referendum, but more than half of the Tatars listened to Milli Firka.
MK: But Mustafa Dzhemilev remains the banner of the Crimean Tatars, he is an iconic
figure...
VA: Over the past 23 years, thanks to Mr. Dzhemilev’s activities, the Crimean Tatar issue was
driven into a dead end. His rise coincided with the destruction of the USSR and the strange
death of two other leaders of the Crimean Tatar national movement Rollan Kadyev, a
remarkable scientist, and Yuri Osmanov, a physicist and dissident, who received a sentence
precisely for the development of documents for the Crimean Tatar national movement.
Osmanov was brutally murdered in 1993, just at the time when the programme to restore the
rights of the Crimean Tatar people was curtailed in favour of the Ukrainisation of Crimea.
MK: Russia now promises a lot to the Crimean Tatars. But will those promises be kept?
VA: I only believe in facts. And the reality is this: there has been a law on the rehabilitation of
repressed peoples in force in Russia since 1991. That is exactly what we have been trying to
achieve during the last 23 years but have not achieved from Ukraine. Getting into the legal field
Annex 15 Exhibit B
of the Russian Federation, the Crimean Tatars fall under the scope of this law. The Russian
Federation also has a law on victims of political repression.
This law also applies to all citizens of the Russian Federation who have been subjected to
repression on the basis of their nationality. It provides for a compensation for moral and material
damage. In Ukraine, this is still not the case. In the Russian Federation, the experience of
resolving issues with the restoration of the rights of repressed peoples – Kalmyks, Chechens,
Ingushs, Balkars, and Karachays – shows all those peoples are protected today by their own
statehood within their Republics, have their own governments and parliaments, and are
represented in federal governmental authorities. And in the unitary Ukraine, where President
Yushchenko proclaimed the doctrine of “one country, one nation, one language, one faith”,
there is no place for anyone, not only the Crimean Tatars. More than 20 million Muslim Turks,
our closest relatives, live in the Russian Federation. And we become part of this world, which
is also a guarantee of our security.
MK: Why, then, did the Mejlis’ leadership oppose the referendum?
VA: Because it is inscribed in the Euro-Atlantic project, which does not provide for any
integration of Crimea into the Eurasian space. What is provides for is the complete
Ukrainisation of Crimea. They have been successfully pursuing this policy for 23 years, for
which they have been awarded the highest Ukrainian awards. They are knights of the main
Ukrainian orders, and not a single problem of the Crimean Tatars has been resolved: there is
neither a law on the restoration of the rights of the people, nor statehood, and the road to Crimea
is still closed for 150,000 compatriots. Here are the real results of the activities of this structure.
Apparently, the obligations Dzhemilev and Chubarov have assumed to Brussels and
Washington are higher than the opportunities Russia opened up for them.
MK: What will happen to the Mejlis and its leaders after the Russian power is finally
established in Crimea? Should they fear any persecution?
VA: Only those specific individuals who have committed crimes against their people. There are
strange murders that have not yet been investigated, including the murders of Yuri Osmanov
and Norik Shirin, a youth leader... If the real power comes, we will demand a serious
investigation into those crimes. And there is 100% evidence of embezzlement through
corruption schemes of budget funds supposed to be spent to meet the needs of the Crimean
Tatar population, including areas of their compact residence. All these documents will be given
a go. However, I have no idea how the Mejlis can be inscribed in the political system of the
Russian Federation. In Ukraine, it was not inscribed anywhere. It existed de facto, and didn’t
exist de jure. Therefore, they did everything they wanted and were not liable for anything under
law.
MK: Recently, Hizb ut-Tahrir has gained great influence in Crimea. In Russia, this
organisation has been recognised as a terrorist organisation and banned. Probably, its
adherents should now expect to be completely “cleared off”... Could this lead to a surge
of discontent?
VA: Hizb ut-Tahrir has nothing to do with Islam. We believe this is the most terrible evil that
can be in Crimea. These are unbelievers, a potential machine for murders and a bloody conflict,
controlled from the outside. Therefore, its “clearing-off” will cause no indignation. We believe
that appropriate measures should be taken against Hizb ut-Tahrir, including tough ones.
Annex 15 Exhibit B
MK: How great is its influence?
VA: The last “combat inspections” arranged for by Hizb ut-Tahrir in the form of rallies, which
they began to hold the year before last, gathered 2,000 to 3,000 people. On the 26th of February,
it was Hizb ut-Tahrir supporters who were the main striking force of confrontation in front of
the Verkhovnaya Rada. There were three thousand Hizb ut-Tahrir militants acting in direct
conjunction with the Mejlis.
MK: But the Mejlis opposed Hizb ut-Tahrir. How can they act together?
VA: At the very beginning of Hizb ut-Tahrir’s activities in Crimea, there were weak attempts
by the muftiate, who was completely controlled by the Mejlis, to criticize them. But over the
past three years, the Spiritual Direction of the Muslims of Crimea has completely stopped
criticising Hizb ut-Tahrir. That’s because the Mejlis does not have its own combat units ready
to defend its interests by force. And they are willing to use Hizb ut-Tahrir’s militants for these
purposes. By the way, in anticipation of the arrival of Russia, the main figures of this sect have
already moved to L’vov, where settlements and training camps will be created for them. They
are the “refugees from Crimea” who are being shouted about in Kiev. Therefore, the Mejilis is
now “toothless”, and all their statements about their willingness to take up arms are nothing
more than words.
MK: What did the organisers of the 26 February confrontation achieve? Only the
disruption of the Supreme Council meeting on the referendum, or did they have more
ambitious plans?
VA: Mr. Chubarov’s ultimatum on the 23rd of February (he demanded that the Crimean
parliament be dissolved and all symbols of the Soviet power removed in ten days) was not an
empty threat. The idea was to draw NATO forces here. And there had to be good reasons for
that. The only such reason could be an inter-ethnic conflict unfolding in Crimea.
I have my own sources of information, including in the Mejilis. We knew exactly when and
what was going to happen. Seas of blood were to be shed by the 3rd of March. They planned to
seize army warehouses with the help of Hizb ut-Tahrir militants. They planned to begin a
massacre of the Slavs by the hands of those militants. The Black Sea Fleet would get involved,
and off we went! Just as in Yugoslavia or Syria. The “polite little green men”, as they are called,
were just two days ahead of them. They took control of everything, and those plans snapped.
Exhibit C
Nezavisimaya Gazeta, Split in Mejlis, Crimean Tatar Leaders Are Not Able to Agree
among Themselves (31 March 1998)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit C
Translation
Nezavisimaya Gazeta, Split in Mejlis, Crimean Tatar Leaders Are Not Able to Agree among
Themselves (31 March 1998), available at:
https://sites.ualberta.ca/~khineiko/NG_97_99/1149200.htm.
Nezavisimaya Gazeta
31 March 1998
SPLIT IN MEJLIS
Crimean Tatar Leaders Are Not Able to Agree among Themselves
By Ekaterina Tesemnikova
Today’s political life of the Crimean autonomy is determined by three directions of
confrontation, which can be roughly defined as “Crimea vs Ukraine”, “Crimea vs Crimea”, and
“Crimea vs Tatars”. The Crimean Tatars now make up more than 10% of the population of the
Republic, so their claims to a special status look quite legitimate.
The aggressive attitude of the Crimean Tatars is largely predetermined by their difficult social
situation. Crimean politicians explain that situation in different ways, depending on their pro-
Kiev or pro-Moscow orientation. The pro-Kiev ones argue that Ukraine alone is unable to
correct the mistakes made by the Soviet leadership as it has no sufficient financial resources to
settle the Crimean Tatars. The pro-Moscow ones are sure that the Tatars were seriously
mistaken hoping for Kiev, which not only does not give money for the settlement of the
deported peoples but also retains part of the funds allocated for these purposes by international
foundations.
Meanwhile, the entire non-Tatar population of Crimea up to the top leaders is confident that
Tatar rallies and demonstrations are only a manifestation of the Tarar struggle for power. Under
law, Tatars are deprived of the right to participate in elections until they accept Ukrainian
citizenship. As for the matter of obtaining said citizenship, there is talk in the Crimea that it is
not particularly profitable for Tatars to get it as the government turns a blind eye to some
violations committed by those non-citizens who do not pay electricity and other utility bills. It
is worth mentioning another rumour about the policy of the Tatar leadership: the Mejlis has socalled
exemplary villages where journalists and representatives of international organisations
are taken so as to show them the poverty of the life of the Tatars in Crimea. Indeed, the living
conditions of a large part of the returnees are very bad, but there are also some Tatar families
who managed to build their houses no worse than the new Russians.
The office of the Mejlis’ chair Mustafa Dzhemilev is decorated with two portraits – Imam
Shamil and Dzhokhar Dudayev. Mr. Dzhemilev does not hide his friendly relations with
Chechnya: “Even before the outbreak of hostilities, when there were rumours of a split among
the Chechens, we appealed to them with calls for reconciliation and tried to support Chechnya
at all international conferences. When Dzhokhar Dudayev was killed, our press wrote: ‘The
leader of the terrorists was killed’. But we held mourning prayers in all mosques and lowered
our national flags. Ukraine then agreed that the Chechen issue was an internal affair of Russia.
Annex 15 Exhibit C
We do not share this attitude. We sympathised with the members of the Organisation of the
Crimean Tatar National Movement who went to Chechnya as volunteers. When it was
especially difficult for the Chechens, we considered it our moral duty to support them”.
Given the ideological closeness of the Chechen and Tatar leaderships, the following question
naturally arises: will the Crimean Tatars be able to take up arms in defending their rights? There
has been talk in the Crimea about the creation of self-defence units and the Askers being trained
by Turks and Jordanians for more than a year. As Mustafa Dzhemilev explained, “the idea of
creating self-defence units arose in 1992 when bandit attacked our tent camps. We declared a
state of emergency and were ready to form national detachments and regarded any attack, be it
carried out by a SWAT or police, as an attack by illegal bandit formations. However, after our
demand for the immediate release of the hostages was met, the confrontation subsided...”
Boris Kizilov, a leader of the Soyuz party, believes that “the Tatars have brought absolute
disobedience to the laws of Ukraine, an additional mafia force, drug trafficking and more
national contradictions to the Crimea. Meanwhile, if the government treated the Tatars in the
same way as it treats all other citizens regardless of their nationality and the political
conjuncture, they would be calmer”.
Such a radical position of Crimean politicians has the right to exist in the context of relations
of the Autonomy with Kiev. Today, the authorities of Simferopol are inclined to reproach the
leadership of Ukraine in pursuing a policy described as “divide and rule”. According to Anatoly
Gritsenko, the speaker of the Crimean parliament, “issues with the Crimean Tatars are still
ahead. Today’s rallies and marches are preliminary events, given the fact that the budget of
Ukraine does not provide for any funds to resolve the issues raised by the Crimean Tatars. When
we deprive the Tatars of the opportunity to talk about their issues from the rostrum of the
parliament, they go to rallies of thousands”.
Another Crimean parliamentarian, Vladimir Klychnikov, believes “the leaders of the Crimean
Tatars are trying to raise the issue of Crimean Tatar national autonomy with all the truths and
untruths and, by and large, to divide the Crimean community on a national basis. Every year,
the Mejlis proves the inconsistency of such policy and becomes less and less cohesive. Ordinary
citizens from among the Crimean Tatars see that the leadership does not so much care about
their fate as is engaged in political intrigues in order to enjoy some benefits and privileges
themselves”.
In this case, we are talking about a split in the Mejlis that occurred as early as the end of last
year. Now the parties assure there are no fundamental ideological differences between them.
Divorce considerations turned out to be purely mercantile. The radical wing of the Mejlis was
headed by Server Kerimov and Lenur Arifov, Mustafa Dzhemilev’s former deputy, a member
of the parliament and a deputy chair of the Crimean Council of Ministers. The opposition
explained the essence of the split to Novaya Gazeta’s reporter.
“Until recently, the work of the Mejlis was characterised by a high degree of democracy”, Lenur
Arifov said. “Time and again, the Mejlis made decisions in opposition to the opinion of its
chair. Over the past two years, however, some changes occurred that resulted in what we call a
split. Dzhemilev surrounded himself with people who managed to influence him in such a way
that the Mejlis was turned into a political roof for financial fraud with budgetary funds”.
Annex 15 Exhibit C
Mr. Arifov described in detail the procedure of monetary fraud with the help of two financial
and business entities – the Krym Foundation and the commercial bank Imdat Bank. Beginning
from February 1997, according to him, Mr. Dzhemilev directed all the efforts to re-organise the
structures of the Mejlis itself and to destroy the Kurultai parliamentary faction. “For me, what
happened was the rebirth of this man who in the last year and a half behaved like an authoritarian
leader putting his personal interests above the issues of national importance. As recently as four
years ago, there was no cult his entourage and the new composition of the Mejlis selected on
the principle of personal loyalty are now spreading”, Mr. Arifov said.
Thus, after the Kurultai, the Mejlis split into two almost equal groups. 16 of the 33 members of
the Mejlis opposed Mustafa Dzhemilev. Following the procedure to confirm the trust to the
chair, which was also far from the principles of democracy, Mr. Dzhemilev was given the
widest powers. Now, in the elections to the Mejlis, he can reject up to one third of the nominated
candidates without justifying the reasons.
“They threatened the opposition to break their hands, saying that if there was a situation here
like that in Chechnya, they would not hesitate to shoot us”, Mr. Arifov said. “Now Mustafa
Dzhemilev intends to control the situation alone. He has taken a number of measures as a result
of which the opposition will not be represented at the Kurultai in the near future”.
Mr. Dzhemilev himself took the accusations against him quite calmly. “Indeed, we could not
come to a consensus at the meeting of the Mejlis when discussing some issues. My position
was as follows: if you are so afraid, if it is more important to you whether there will be gossip
around you, you have nothing to do in the Mejlis”, he explained.
The Chairman of the Mejlis also spoke about another line of disagreement: “The Kurultai
faction in the Crimean Supreme Soviet is controlled by the Mejlis and only follows its decisions.
However, sometimes Arifov or Chubarov (Deputy Chairman of the Crimean Supreme Soviet –
E.T.) begins to tilt in one direction or another. When the Mejlis decides that the Kurultai should
vote in a certain way in the parliament, they declare they know the situation in the parliament
better. Therefore, Arifov began to gather around himself a group of dissatisfied. At the same
time, I have normal relations with Refat Chubarov – he did not bring our internal affairs to the
press, so he remains the First Deputy Chairman of the Mejlis”.
The coming days will show how the relations between the current composition of the Mejlis
and the opposition will develop, taking into account, in particular, the results of the elections
held in Ukraine and Crimea.
Exhibit D
Milli Firka, Who and How Ripped Off the People in the Mejlis (25 March 2011)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit D
Translation
Milli Firka, Who and How Ripped Off the People in the Mejlis (25 March 2011), available at:
http://milli-firka.org/кто-и-как-в-меджлисе-обворовывал-народ/.
Who and how ripped off the people in the Mejlis
Today everyone is aware of the rapid decline in the authority of the Mejlis among compatriots and, first
and foremost, of its leaders, M. Dzhemilev and R. Chubarov. The first attempt to "cleanse the Mejlis from
within" was made in 1997 by a "group of 16" members of the Mejlis at the time who were outraged by
financial machinations around budgetary funds perpetrated by the Mejlis leaders through the notorious
and no longer existing "people's" "Imdat-Bank".
The protest by fighters for truth and democracy in the Mejlis was crushed, and the troublemakers were
severely obstructed, finding themselves "out of the business" of the Qurultay-Mejlis. "MF-Inform"
decided to return to those events, after which the processes of internal degradation of the Mejlis could no
longer be hidden from the public.
We bring to your attention materials of newspaper "Avdet" No.23 (186) dated 31 December 1997 which
are opening just a little part of what and how Mustafa Dzhemilev and his today's closest surrounding
started to fall "from pedestal". I give the floor to Enver Muedinov.
Report of Enver Muedinov,
Chairman of the Review Committee of Qurultay
Dear Qurultay delegates!
Annex 15 Exhibit D
In its activities, the Review
Committee was guided by the Regulations on the Review Committee, approved by the Qurultay.
During the reporting period after the first session of the III Qurultay the Review Committee held
12 meetings where there was always a quorum for taking decisions. During this period the
Review Committee has considered about 20 applications.
The essence of many applications boiled down to almost one thing: to assist in solving the
housing problem. Besides, there were applications from inhabitants of Ukrainka village about
doubts in the results of elections of the chairman of Mejlis of Ukrainka village and applications
from delegates of Kirov regional conference about violations during the conference.
All the applications were checked, the results of checks were discussed at the meetings of the
Review Committee and decisions were made.
Audits of the financial and economic activities of the "Crimea" Fund for 1996, accounting
department of the Mejlis for 1996, and 10 months of 1997 were conducted. I will elaborate on
the results of the audits below.
The Review Committee attended all the meetings of the Mejlis during the reporting period.
The Review Committee of the Qurultay several times made statements and initiated meetings of
the Mejlis and consideration of such issues as:
Annex 15 Exhibit D
- on the activities of commercial bank "Imdat-Bank" and the transfer from this bank of the
Capital development administration of Republican Committee of the Autonomous Republic of
Crimea account;
- on the activities of the deputy faction "Qurultay" in the Supreme Soviet of Crimea.
At the request of the Mejlis Chairman, the Qurultay Review Committee checked the reasons for
the disruption of the Mejlis meeting in Foti Sala village.
The Review Committee, carrying out its work in a rather difficult environment, carried out the
functions entrusted to it by the Qurultay.
The crisis in the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people could not but affect the Qurultay's Review
Committee.
Until recently, there was no particular disagreement in the Review Committee. I, as the
Chairman of the Review Committee, trying to comply with the principles of democracy, obeyed
the decisions taken, although I didn't always agree with the decision. But when some members of
the Review Committee tried to act as censors to forbid me to speak about negative phenomena
discussed in the sessions of Mejlis, I refused to obey. This ended with the Review Committee
meeting deciding to remove me from my position by expressing distrust of me, which only the
Qurultay can do.
Thus, some members of the Review Committee in their eagerness to silence everyone who is
unwanted are even exceeding their authority and violating the regulation on the Review
Committee of the Qurultay. I have informed you about this in detail in my statements to the
media.
Only the Qurultay may assess the activities of the Review Committee and hence my work as the
Chairman of the Review Committee elected at the Qurultay, so I am submitting to your judgment
a report on the work done by the Review Committee of the Qurultay.
I bring to your attention the report compiled without embellishing the facts, but also without
glossing over the painful problems, the attempt to solve which led to the crisis in Mejlis.
So far, the desire not to wash dirty linen in public has worked for us while discussing these or
those questions. But in order to understand the reasons of the created crisis it is necessary to
wash this dirty linen as long as without telling the truth we won't achieve unity and solidarity of
the national movement, without this it will be difficult to gain trust of the people, which has been
noticeably shaken lately.
Some members of the Mejlis and the Review Committee are trying to blame for the crisis
situation on those members of the Mejlis who sought to bring order to the Mejlis and in the
distribution of funds allocated under the Program for Return and Settlement of the Crimean Tatar
People. All the "guilt" of these members of the Mejlis is that they made public the negative
phenomena that were happening with the funds allocated under the program. And the Chairman
of Mejlis M. Dzhemilev and his supporters are against publicising these facts.
Disclosure of which facts are the Chairman of Mejlis and his supporters afraid of?
At the Mejlis meetings from August 1996 to March 1997 the questions about the efficiency of
the use of budgetary funds allocated under the Program for the return and settlement of the
Annex 15 Exhibit D
Crimean Tatar people and the principles of the relationship between the Mejlis and "Imdat-bank"
were considered 6 times.
During this time, we witnessed how Mejlis commission was established to make
recommendations on the activities of "Imdat-Bank", how extraordinary meetings of the Mejlis
were initiated at the request of 13 members of the Mejlis and at the decision of the Review
Committee in order to cancel the decisions made. We also faced such a fact as the refusal of the
Mejlis chairman to sign and execute adopted decisions without taking into account the opinion of
the majority of Mejlis members.
Even then, the first signs of the impending crisis appeared, but the Chairman of Mejlis M.
Dzhemilev did nothing to eliminate the crisis phenomena, but on the contrary, did everything
possible to deepen it.
The opinion of the majority of Mejlis members was categorical: to transfer the budget account of
the capital development administration from "Imdat-bank" to one of those authorised by the
national bank of Ukraine to service budget funds, thereby expressing distrust in the activities of
"Imdat-bank" and its management.
The Mejlis Chairman, realising that he could not change the mind of the majority of the Mejlis
members, went to an extreme step: it was stated that the Mejlis Chairman would resign if the
budget account of the capital development administration was withdrawn from the "Imdat-bank".
With this step, M. Dzhemilev went to the political blackmail of the Mejlis. He made it clear to
everyone that he would reject any decision to withdraw the capital development administration
account from the "Imdat-Bank".
What does the Chairman of the Mejlis and his supporters actually stand for, and what do most
members of the Mejlis oppose so strongly?
Why does the Chairman of Mejlis M. Dzhemilev persistently continue to defend his pet project -
"Imdat-bank" without taking into account the opinion of the majority of Mejlis members?
And everything turns out to be in the control, or rather, in the uncontrolled spending of
budgetary funds allocated under the Program for the return and settlement of the Crimean Tatar
people, in order to keep "Imdat-bank" afloat.
At one time, when "Imdat-Bank" was organised, it was entrusted with the functions of control
over the efficient spending of funds allocated under the Program through the Public Fund
"Crimea", which is one of the founders of the bank.
Much in the activities of "Imdat-bank" is hidden behind the term "commercial secret". No one
can learn anything about the activities of the bank without the consent of all the founders of the
bank.
In October 1995, by order of the Chairman of the Mejlis, a commission of the Mejlis conducted
the first and so far the only partial inspection of "Imdat-Bank".
In parallel with this inspection by the commission, an audit of the "Imdat-Bank" activity was
carried out by the specialists of an independent financial expertise from Kharkov, at the
invitation of the Chairman of the Mejlis. The main purpose of the audit was to make a clear
picture of the bank's activities.
Much about the activity of "Imdat-bank" became known due to the results of these inspections.
Inspection reports were presented to the Chairman of Mejlis M. Dzhemilev. But the results of the
Annex 15 Exhibit D
inspections were so unexpected and overwhelming even for M. Dzhemilev that he decided to
hide the acts of inspection under the carpet and, rolling up his sleeves, takes decisive measures to
save the bank.
So what did the inspections on the activity of "Imdat-Bank" reveal, and what results of the
inspections did the Chairman of the Mejlis decide to hide?
Here are a few excerpts from the act of inspections:
The bank's insolvency was caused by the fact that the bank's management... in violation of the
requirements of the National Bank of Ukraine, regulating lending activities, in January-
September 1994, issued loans totaling 72.303 billion krb. (karbovanets), which have not been
repaid even at the time of the inspection. The issuance of unprofitable loans was made without
analysing their recoverability and security.
The most serious mistake of the bank officials mentioned above is that credit resources were
provided to a number of companies that already had outstanding loans and fees for using credit
resources in this bank.
As a result of the inactive credit policy of the Council and the Board of the Bank, "Imdat-Bank"
incurred losses amounting to 178.703 billion krb. (non-repayment of issued and guaranteed
loans, lost income, as well as losses from interbank credit operations).
Despite the created situation, when the bank incurred losses, the Council of the Bank set the
salary for the employees of the bank - 15% of the income received by the bank.
Incompetence of the management of "Imdat-bank" led to the fact that the bank was on the verge
of bankruptcy. Changing the chairmen of the Board of "Imdat-bank", one after another, they
tried to save the situation. Only in 1994, 5 chairmen of the bank's Board changed.
In an interview with a correspondent of the "All-Ukrainian News", R. Kenje, a former chairman
of the bank's Board, stated that he had not worked at the bank when it was suffering losses. This
is an impertinent lie. What can you expect from a man who does his best to justify these actions?
R. Kenje was forced to write a notice of resignation from the post of Chairman of the Bank
during the inspection of "Imdat-bank" by the Commission of the Mejlis, i.e. in October 1995.
The 53rd meeting of the Mejlis adopted a decision in relation to R. Kenje as well, but no one
executes this decision because of the disagreement of the Chairman of the Mejlis with it.
The tape recording of the 53rd meeting of the Mejlis and the minutes of the meeting of 24
August 1996, where the decisions on the account of the capital development administration in
the "Imdat-Bank", on the bank officials were taken away and are kept personally by M.
Dzhemilev.
The leadership of the Mejlis, the Imdat-Bank and the State Committee on National Security were
busy with one problem - how to find funds to replenish the hole that had formed due to nonrepayment
of loans. They found both ways and means.
These were the budgetary funds of the Capital development administration of Republican
Committee of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea under the Program for the Return and
Settlement of the Crimean Tatar People. They used persuasion and, if necessary, threats of
physical violence in order to use the budget funds to the benefit of the bank founders and the
managers of some companies. Through these companies and small businesses the budget funds
Annex 15 Exhibit D
intended for the arrangement of the Crimean Tatar people, flowed into the pockets of managers
of various ranks, and the people began to be openly deceived, hiding behind the assurances that
official Kiev is gradually phasing out funding for the Program of Return and Settlement of the
Crimean Tatar People.
Capital development administration of Republican Committee of the Autonomous Republic of
Crimea, its budget account in the "Imdat-bank" was the very cash cow, from the funds of which
the bank still existed.
How else can be explained such a fact that the allocation of 80 billion krb. by the Capital
development administration of the "Crimea" Fund in August 1995, which, according to the order
of the State Committee of National Security, were intended for the payment of financial aid to
individual developers for the completion of houses, were used by the President of the "Crimea"
Fund M. Dzhemilev for strengthening the financial position of the "Imdat-bank", for the
repayment of debts on loans previously taken by a number of small enterprises and companies.
In order to give the appearance of legitimacy of use of 80 billion krb. received from the Capital
development administration, the contracts were concluded between the "Crimea" Fund and the
"Geos" and "Arsen-bey" enterprises for the supply of building materials, and the money was
transferred to these enterprises in the amount of 63,0 billion krb. and 10 billion krb. respectively,
leaving 7,0 billion krb. on the current account of the "Crimea" Fund. But in those two years not a
single karbovanets worth of building materials has been delivered.
Where was the money spent? With this money "Geos" and "Arsen-bey" enterprises bought their
promissory notes in the "Imdat-bank".
Moreover, at the expense of the above mentioned 63.0 billion krb. "Geos" enterprise repaid the
debts of the following enterprises:
1. "Zodiac" enterprise 9.9 billion krb.
2. "Turk-Krym" LLC 10.0 billion krb.
3. "RED" enterprise 12.7 billion krb.
4. "Sparta" LLC 4.62 billion krb.
5. "Ecotech" LLC 4.0 billion krb.
6. "Cruz" enterprise 4.7 billion krb.
7. "Avesta" enterprise 4.6 billion krb.
8. "Krymzemstroi" enterprise 4.6 billion krb.
And the "Arsen-bey" enterprise, at the expense of the public fund "Crimea" received 10 billion
krb, has repaid debts of the enterprise "Marat-94" in the amount of 2,0 billion krb.
The way in which after some time the appearance of payment of a part of debts between "Geos"
enterprise and Fund "Crimea" was created refers to the category of puzzles and when solving
them one starts to wonder: who took credits after all and why one enterprises pay debts of other
enterprises and what source was chosen for repayment of debts?
From March 12, 1996 to July 15, 1996 "RED" enterprise transferred to the Fund "Crimea" 25
219 565 000 krb., drawing up payment orders as a repayment of accounts payable. But in the
accounting documents in the Fund "Crimea" there is no confirmation of the document on the
Annex 15 Exhibit D
presence of such debt, but there is a letter from the "RED" enterprise that the transferred amount
of 25 219 565 000 Krb is the payment of the debt of "Geos" enterprise.
S. Tokhtarov was the Director of the "RED" enterprise and the Chairman of the Board of "Imdatbank"
at that time, and he probably chose budgetary funds as the source for paying the debt.
The events that happened after that belong to those that are called incredible. The leadership of
the "Crimea" Fund decided to use part of the funds coming from compatriots living abroad to
replenish the Fund's current account in the "Imdat-Bank". For this purpose, $31,497 was
allocated and handed over to S. Tokhtarov for currency exchange and crediting to the current
account of the "Crimea" Fund.
For the execution of this operation S. Tochtarov chose the "Geos" enterprise. The "Geos"
enterprise transfers 58107 grivnas to the "Crimea" Fund by issuing a payment order, as a return
of accounts payable. Is this not absurd? The funds of the "Crimea" Fund are used to pay off debts
to the "Crimea" Fund.
How can one think of choosing a partner to credit funds to a company that has been indebted to
the "Crimea" Fund for more than one year? According to the accounting documents, "Geos"
enterprise reduced its debt ashes to the "Crimea" Fund at the expense of the funds received by
SME "RED" and for the currency received. According to accounting documents, "Geos"
enterprise reduced its debt to the "Crimea" Fund through funds received by "RED" enterprise
and for the currency received.
All the funds received from "RED" enterprise and "Geos" enterprise the management of the
Fund "Crimea" decided to direct for payment of material aid to individual developers for the
completion of houses. In 1996, 347.776 grivnas 50 kopecks was allocated for payment of
financial assistance to the developers, and to date the indebtedness of the "Crimea" Fund to the
developers in the amount of 4,522,234 grivnas 50 kopecks remains.
But what happened with 80 billion krb. is not the only thing that happened with the budget funds.
In the same way, 45 billion brb. was used to repay the debts of some enterprises through the
"Poisk" enterprise and the "RED" enterprise. A total of 8.9 billion krb. was misappropriated
through the "Toria" enterprise on August 7, 1996. And there are dozens and dozens of such facts.
From the outside it seemed that official Kiev did not notice, to put it mildly, "these tricks" of the
"Imdat-bank" management. But, to its credit, the Ukrainian government has taken steps to
streamline the budget. In accordance with Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No 401 of 03.04.96,
enterprises and organisations financed from the state budget were obliged to transfer accounts to
authorised banks determined by this resolution before 15.05.96. However, this decree, as well as
the decisions of the Mejlis taken in accordance with this decree, have not been implemented to
date.
The most vigorous opposition to the withdrawal of the Capital development administration
account from "Imdat-Bank", following the decision taken at the Mejlis meeting, came from M.
Dzhemilev and R. Kenje, a deputy of the Supreme Soviet of Crimea and former chairman of the
bank's Council.
At a time when one part of the Mejlis members were trying to bring order to the use of budgetary
funds, another part was actively working to keep the budgetary account of the Capital
development administration in the "Imdat-Bank".
Without discussing it at meetings of the Mejlis, they held secret negotiations with the Chairman
of the Council of Ministers of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, A. Demidenko, and the
Annex 15 Exhibit D
Permanent Representative of the President of Ukraine in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea,
V. Kiselev. As a result of these negotiations, a letter was initiated to the Prime Minister of
Ukraine P.I. Lazarenko. I will read an excerpt from this letter:
"The incompetence of the former management, which manifested itself in misconduct, seriously
complicated and worsened the financial situation of the bank, the new composition of the
Council and the Board of the bank are taking measures to resolve the crisis situation. In these
conditions, the control and audit department and the state treasury department of Simferopol
charged the amount of 2,772,218 grivnas 85 kopecks on the balance of budgetary funds with
penalties, while the authorised capital of the bank is 1,200,074 grivnas.
Taking into account the role of "Imdat-bank" which activity is under constant control of the
Supervisory Board and the "Qurultay" faction of the Supreme Soviet of Crimea, I ask to consider
it appropriate to withdraw the collection orders and give it the status of an authorized bank for
servicing the funds sent from the State Budget of Ukraine, to finance the return and settlement of
the Crimean Tatar people."
How they controlled, and how they wanted to control the use of budgetary funds, we have shown
above.
How can we hope that the leadership of "Imdat-bank" will finally begin to show a sense of
compassion for their people if they continue to steal from the Capital development
administration, but now in a different way.
Imdat-bank's management takes inter-bank loans and lends them to the Capital development
administration at a higher interest rate. During the first five months of 1996, the Capital
development administration paid "Imdat-bank" interest of 205,278 grivnas and 27 kopecks,
while "Imdat-bank" transferred 54,610 grivnas 66 kopecks for interbank credits to "Krym-credit"
bank. The difference in the amount of 150,667 grivnas 61 kopecks is the profit of "Imdat-bank"
received at the expense of the Capital development administration.
The "Crimea" Fund, being the founder of the bank, has more than 362 thousand grivnas in the
"Imdat-bank" statutory fund, but has not received a single penny of dividends for these years.
So who do the resources of the fund work for and who gets dividends from it?
The answer to this question can only be given by the management of the "Crimea" Fund and
"Imdat-bank".
The funds invested in the "Imdat-Bank" statutory fund by the management of the "Crimea" Fund
are the funds collected on the donations of compatriots abroad, for the improvement of the entire
nation, and not for the profits of a number of high-ranking leaders.
The funds for the operation of the "Crimea" Fund are allocated by the President of the Fund M.
Dzhemilev. Only M. Dzhemilev knows the true sources and quantity of the incoming funds. The
Crimean Republic can not say anything about it. Therefore, the verification covers that part of
the documents which were provided to us.
Having failed to eliminate the contradictions that led to the confrontation in the Mejlis when
addressing the issue of the effectiveness of the use of budgetary funds, the Mejlis Chairman
continued to rely on the support of the majority of the Mejlis members when addressing other
issues. This was particularly evident in the discussion of candidates for nomination to the new
Crimean government
Annex 15 Exhibit D
A majority of Mejlis members did not support the candidates for the Crimean government
proposed by the Mejlis chairman. But M. Dzhemilev, without a decision of Mejlis, considered
that Ennanov's candidacy for the post of Minister of Social Protection was the best one, and
disregarding the opinion of the majority of Mejlis members, who rejected this candidacy,
supported Ennanov and achieved his approval in this post.
The Mejlis chairman understood that decisions in Mejlis meetings are made by a majority vote of
the Mejlis members, but he also understood that he could not persuade the majority of the Mejlis
members to support his ideas.
And so, in this difficult situation, the Chairman of the Mejlis decided to go on leave, until the
Qurultay session.
He was well aware that the Mejlis Rules do not foresee a situation where the Mejlis chairman
goes on long-term leave on his own initiative before the Qurultay session.
The Mejlis meeting offered M. Dzhemilev to go on leave for 2-3 months, but he refused and
insisted on taking leave until the Qurultay session.
And then the Mejlis meeting was forced to assign the duties of Mejlis chairman to the First
Mejlis Deputy Chairman R. Chubarov until an extraordinary session of the Qurultay.
Having gone on leave, M. Dzhemilev became more active and began to meet more often with his
compatriots in different regions of Crimea, which he did not do so often before.
Two weeks later, at a meeting of the Mejlis, R. Chubarov made a statement that he was
physically unable to combine his duties as deputy chairman of the Supreme Soviet of Crimea and
acting deputy chairman of the Mejlis, and asked to be relieved of his duties as chairman of the
Mejlis.
But the real reason of R. Chubarov's unwillingness to act as Mejlis Chairman is that though
Mejlis Chairman M. Dzhemilev went on holiday, he continued active work and all questions
were agreed with him without taking into consideration Acting Mejlis Chairman, and that he is
not willing to work in such circumstances.
The members of the Mejlis faced a dilemma: how to break the deadlock, how to untangle the
tangle of painful problems in a situation when the Mejlis leadership withdrew from solving them,
aggravating the crisis in the Mejlis.
All members of the Mejlis understood that any decision taken by the Mejlis would go against the
rules of procedure of the Mejlis.
At such a critical moment when the issue was put forward: should the Mejlis be the
representative body of the people, the majority of Mejlis members accepted Mr Chubarov's
statement that he would step down as Mejlis chairman and hand his duties over to Reshat Ablaev
on a temporary basis until an extraordinary session of the Qurultay.
Concluding my report I would like to hope that the delegates of the Qurultay will have the
courage to assess in a balanced and objective manner the activity of the Mejlis and its President
and moreover, to assess the causes of the crisis. I hope that Qurultay will find the ways of getting
out of the crisis and create opportunities for strengthening the positions of the system of
representative bodies of Qurultay and Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people.
It will depend on you, the Qurultay delegates, what composition of the Mejlis you will choose.
Annex 15 Exhibit D
But we must not allow the authority of the Mejlis to be used for mercenary purposes, by people
with impure intentions - whoever these people are, whatever merits they have before the people.
You have a difficult decision to make, on which the unity of the people will depend.
I think Qurultay decisions will be realistic and their realisation will contribute to the restoration
of rights of our people, their return and settlement on their native land.
Enver MUEDINOV
Newspaper "Avdet" No.23 (186) dated 31 December 1997
MF-inform
Exhibit E
New Day, Crimean Tatars Impeach Dzhemilev (PHOTOS) (21 November 2011)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit E
Translation
New Day, Crimean Tatars Impeach Dzhemilev (PHOTOS) (21 November 2011), available
at: https://newdaynews.ru/crimea/359035.html.
Crimean Tatars Impeach Dzhemilev (PHOTOS)
By Andrey Dorofeyev from Simferopol
Mustafa Dzhemilev should be removed from his offices of the Chair of the Crimean Tatar
Mejlis (an illegal ethnic “parliament”), a member of the Council of Representatives of the
Crimean Tatar People under the President of Ukraine, and a member of the parliament as soon
as possible. An extraordinary Qurultay (national congress) should be convened in the near
future to form a new, legitimate national self-government body for the Crimean Tatars.
This is stated in the resolution passed by the All-People’s Assembly of the Crimean Tatars held
today in Simferopol.
“We declare: we can no longer tolerate it! Mustafa Dzhemilev and Refat Chubarov (Deputy
Chair of the Mejlis – NR’s note) seized power and has been criminally holding it for 20 years.
Dzhemilev arrogated to himself the role of the only and indisputable “authority” and surrounded
himself with people without honour and conscience. He and his inner circle blackmail the
Ukrainian government with protest actions, manipulate the international community and
international organisations, and rob their own people, profiting from the troubles of their
compatriots. We, the Crimean Tatars, being on our native land, are deprived of our right by
Dzhemilev and Chubarov to decide our own fate. <... > The people have the right to know how
the land was distributed, <... > where millions of dollars allocated for the settlement of the
Crimean Tatar people by the Ukrainian government and foreign states were spent”, the
resolution says.
The authors of the resolution also recalled that the veterans of the national movement on the
14th of November announced the impeachment of the Mejlis’ leaders Mustafa Dzhemilev and
Refat Chubarov. The resolution expresses support for this impeachment and states that
Dzhemilev and Chubarov “have been deprived of the right to represent the Crimean Tatar
people in Ukraine and abroad”.
In this regard, the members of the All-People’s Assembly of the Crimean Tatars demanded that
the Mejlis’ leaders be deprived of their mandates as members of the parliament and called on
the President to exclude them from its Council of Representatives of the Crimean Tatar People.
They also suggested that the Crimean Council of Ministers should expel Dzhemilev “and his
protégé Dzevdzhet Kurtumerov” from the Commission for resolving issues related to the
release of land and the allocation of land plots for the construction and maintenance of
residential buildings and let in representatives of the opposition.
The resolution also warns the heads of state and government, international organisations,
political parties and the entire Ukrainian and world community that any their meetings or
agreements with Dzhemilev and Chubarov “would be illegitimate and not recognised by the
Crimean Tatar people”.
Annex 15 Exhibit E
In addition, the members of the All-People’s Assembly of the Crimean Tatars suggested that
the Council of Representatives of the Crimean Tatar People under the President and the
Assembly of Elders of the National Movement should “develop the principles of activities of
the new representative body of the Crimean Tatar people, which should be based on the rules
of international law and the legislation of Ukraine”. Later on, they believe, such body should
be established by the delegates of the extraordinary Qurultay, which, in turn, must be convened
as soon as possible.
It is worth noting that supporters of the Mejlis’ leadership tried to disrupt today’s event several
times. Several dozen young people who came after the beginning of the meeting chanted
“Mustafa!” and “Mejlis!”, tried to break through to the steps of the Crimean Tatar Theatre as
an improvised tribune, provoked brawls, and snatched the microphone from the speakers.
“Here you see people, Mejlis functionaries, who came to defend their trough which they joined
thanks to the suffering of the people. Look, they are willing to throw even elderly women and
children under the feet of the crowd just to protect their well-fed and comfortable life”, Ruslan
Balbek, the head of the public organisation “Generation Crimea” and the arranger of the
Assembly, told the audience.
At the very beginning of the event, the Theatre’s management turned off the loudspeaker
installation, but after a while, it allowed it to be reconnected to the power supply under pressure
from the participants.
As the final chord of the event, the participants burned an effigy of Mustafa Dzhemilev,
which was rolled out on a wheelchair symbolising the inability of the Mejlis’ leader to meet the
challenges that time poses to him.
The rally began
Ruslan Balbek explained the position of the audience
A confrontation occurred between the protesters and the visiting functionaries of the Mejlis
Mejlis officers tried to carry a little girl to the microphone for unknown reasons
The number of participants in the rally constantly grew
Police had to separate the parties
A wheelchair was rolled out, waiting for an effigy
The participants voted for the resolution
An effigy symbolising Dzhemilev was taken out to be burned
The last preparations were made for the first burning of the effigy of Dzhemilev in his life
Final chord
Exhibit F
GLAVKOM, Wahhabi Wave Rising in Crimea (19 July 2010)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit F
Translation
GLAVKOM, Wahhabi Wave Rising in Crimea (19 July 2010), available at:
https://glavcom.ua/publications/43823-v-krymu-podnimaetsja-volna-vahhabizma.html.
Wahhabi Wave Rising in Crimea
By GLAVKOM
“There are more Wahhabis in Ukraine than in Chechnya. This contagion is spreading all over
the world. A lot of fanatics pass through your country. And if you do not fight this phenomenon,
tomorrow or the day after tomorrow they will do to you what they did in Chechnya”, Chechen
President Ramzan Kadyrov told Ukrainian journalists.
The Crimean Ummah (Islamic community) consists of about 300,000 people. They account for
13% of the population on the peninsula, which remains a constantly “heated” point of Ukraine.
Izvestiya wrote about the arrival of a wave of Wahhabism in Crimea in late 1990s. At that time,
the terrorist leader Zelimkhan Yandarbiyev’s leaflets telling that “Crimea should be married to
Chechnya” were distributed on the peninsula, wounded Chechen militants were treated in
Crimean sanatoria, and Wahhabi centres operated almost legally near Simferopol and Sudak.
Now, that story seems to be repeat. The Crimean Tatar Mejlis also speaks about the appearance
of Wahhabis on the peninsula. And members of the Ukrainian parliament argue that the
emergence of Islamic terrorists in Crimea can become not only a grief for the Ummah, but also
the beginning of the split of Ukraine.
_______________________________________
“Most Wahhabis are citizens of Ukraine” – Mustafa Dzhemilev, the head of the Crimean Tatars
Izvestiya: What did provoke this ethnic tension in the Crimea?
Mustafa Dzhemilev: I think today’s contradictions are caused by the desire to build a rigid
vertical of power. Its highest echelons include some odious figures distinguished by their
rigidity towards the Crimean Tatars who defend their land rights. There are also those who
openly justify Stalin’s deportations and divide the peoples of Ukraine into good and bad ones.
Some people even said the Crimean Tatars were preparing a second Kosovo. Such statements
literally agitated the chauvinistic forces of the peninsula. They should never be provoked so
blatantly.
Izvestiya: But what about the murder of a Russian child by a Crimean Tatar?
Mustafa Dzhemilev: He was not a fanatic. A mentally ill person stabbed a baby, and those who
benefited from it presented this grief as an interethnic murder. I think if a person is sick or just
a scoundrel, it does not matter which faith or nationality he belongs to.
The situation on the peninsula is very alarming now. In the near future, the work of the
Verkhovnaya Rada of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea may be paralysed as the interests
of various clans – local and alien ones – collide.
In addition, we are threatened with the fact that the Tatars will not be represented in power. We
Annex 15 Exhibit F
account for only 13% of the Crimean population and even less among the governmental
officials.
We are trying to explain that the Crimean Tatars are an indigenous people and should be able
to defend their interests before the governments.
There are political, social and administrative issues. We have not yet resolved the issue with
the allocations of land, there are difficulties with education in our native language, and the
number of Tatars having higher education is rapidly decreasing.
Izvestiya: Where did the information about the Wahhabi wave sweeping down on the Crimea
come from if the Crimean Tatars are set up for peace?
Mustafa Dzhemilev: This is related to educational matters, and we ourselves are partly to blame
for this. There have always been different currents in Islam, and we also have them –Wahhabis
and Habashids... At first, the representatives of the aggressive Muslim trends were preachers
and Arab students coming from Arab countries, but now most Wahhabis are citizens of Ukraine.
At the time when the Crimean Tatars returned to their historical homeland, their general
religious literacy was at a very low level, although almost all of them considered themselves
Muslims. Then Tatars sent their children to study in Arab countries under programmes designed
to help their fellow believers. Tatar youth also went to places where Wahhabism was a state
religion. Those young people returning to their homeland brought a new worldview to the
peninsula.
As at the beginning of 2010, 341 Muslim religious organisations had been registered in Crimea.
Some of them include supporters of aggressive currents. There is a village near Simferopol
named Fontany where the concentration of the adherents of the aggressive Muslim movements
is highest. There are even supporters of the construction of a kind of world caliphate. They talk
seriously about the world domination but irrelevantly quote surahs. When such people appear
in a mosque, other Muslims must either engage in polemics with them or stop going to that
mosque. They usually choose the latter option.
Until recently, there was a person working here to stimulate the creation of independent
religious communities. His task was to weaken the Crimean Tatars so that they would not
constitute a monolithic force. They just ignored the fact that the flourishing of totalitarian sects
posed a threat not only to the Crimean Tatars but also to the whole society as a whole.
Izvestiya: They say you recently had to confront internal expansion when mosques wanted to
change imams.
Mustafa Dzhemilev: Young people adhering to a different ideology came to a mosque in an
organised way to pray and raised the question of whether the local imam met the requirements
for his position. Then they took a vote to change the imam to their representative. Local people
were unable to resist the aliens.
In this situation, we were forced to adopt a regulation stipulating that all mosques should come
under the guardianship of the Crimean Mufti and no imam should be changed without the
approval of the Spiritual Direction. If we took a different path, there would appear centres
Annex 15 Exhibit F
where, in addition to religious matters, political events related, for example, to Iraq or
Afghanistan would be discussed.
Izvestiya: Which spiritual leader of Ukrainian Muslims do you consider the most legitimate?
Mustafa Dzhemilev: “Our Muslims have no unity. Today, there are three centres at once: Kiev,
Donetsk, and Simferopol. They wanted to hold an all-Ukrainian congress and elect the main
spiritual leader but did not come to a common opinion. It seems to me that the Crimea will have
the final say since it is on the peninsula that most of the communities are concentrated. The
Spiritual Direction of the Muslims of Crimea is elected on a regular basis at congresses by secret
ballot. It is the most influential”.
_______________________________________
“The Muslim extremism has taken root in the Crimea" – Crimean ex-speaker Leonid Grach
Izvestiya: Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov said that there are more Wahhabis in Crimea
than in Chechnya itself. Is that true?
Leonid Grach: I have long spoken about the dangers of Wahhabism. I think it is not for nothing
that Kadyrov suddenly started talking about the Muslim extremism in the Crimea. They want
to remind us that a bomb called Wahhabism can detonate at any time.
Crimea is a very complex region in terms of religious, geopolitical and interethnic relations.
Chechen militants have had the opportunity to settle in Crimea for a long time. But if it was still
possible to cope with Wahhabism on the peninsula in 2000-2003, this danger has already taken
root now, so it will be very difficult to get rid of it.
Izvestiya: Who is destabilising Crimea?
Leonid Grach: Kiev has conducted the policy of destabilisation almost interruptedly over the
past five years. Despite the change of power, the situation has not yet changed much. The
constitutional powers of the Autonomy were infringed, which led to internal political instability
in the region.
Each region has its own peculiarity, including its own “elite” which residents listen to. Visiting
officials do not know the local people, the situation, and the peculiarities of the region where
different ethnic groups have long coexisted. The principle “everything at once” does not work
in Crimea. Crimea is a turbulent region. On the one hand, it is part of Europe, but on the other
hand, it is a gateway to Asia. It needs very careful, considerate and thoughtful management
methods. The most important thing is not to give a reason for the activation of the Wahhabi
forces that are entrenched in Crimea. Those forces have been seriously training personnel for a
long time – it will just suffice to mention their educational institutions.
Izvestiya: Do you mean madrassas?
Leonid Grach: No, religious schools are half the trouble. For example, Wahhabi activists act
on Mokrousov Street, in the centre of Simferopol, where Quran reciters are trained. But no one
is taking any action against them. If study you the history of this issue, you should recall the
Wahhabi training centre on Mount Ai-Petri.
Annex 15 Exhibit F
There is one more detail. The Ukrainian Presidents used to consider Wahhabism and the Mejlis
almost synonymous. But now both the Mejlis and many imams are disassociating themselves
from extremists. While Wahhabis initially acted exclusively against non-believers, now they
are beginning to oust peaceful Muslims from communities. They attempted to push aside the
Mejlis. In turn, the Mejlis understands that if the situation in Crimea explodes on the basis of
interfaith relations, then the Crimean Tatars will become extreme. And most of them want to
live a quiet life. In this situation, the current Ukrainian President has every chance to become
the first to correct the Crimean situation”.
Izvestiya: Do you believe the Wahhabis will be able to influence Crimea?
Leonid Grach: No doubt. There is a noose hanging on the neck of Crimea, which only remains
to tighten. Ukraine’s geopolitical integrity now depends on Crimea. As soon as it breaks off, a
lot of hot spots will immediately emerge. Crimea is a territory where the interests of Russia and
Ukraine converge. It is becoming a centre where the Wahhabis will sow enmity between our
countries. It is possible that Muslim extremists will stand in solidarity with Ukrainian
nationalists.
Izvestiya: Do you know the main hotbeds of Wahhabism in Crimea?
Leonid Grach: Paradoxically, the very centre of extremism is Simferopol. There are also
centres in the Bakhchysarai, Yalta, and Saki-Yevpatoria areas.
– What do you make of it?
Ukrainian Mufti Sheikh Ahmed Tamim:
In Crimea, religion is closely linked to politics. In the Islamic world, there are religious centres
each of which seeks to spread its influence on the Ummah, the Muslim community. Over the
past two decades, Islam has become a real factor in public life on the peninsula. Now the
Crimean Ummah consists of about 300,000 Muslims. During the first period of their settlement
in their homeland, the Crimean Tatars turned their eyes towards the Muslim states, primarily
Turkey and the Arab East. With rare exceptions, Crimean Tatar communities have never
become self-sufficient cells of the Muslim religious pattern.
Exhibit G
LB.ua, Mejlis Delivers Ultimatum to Yanukovych (30 August 2010)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit G
Translation
LB.ua, Mejlis Delivers Ultimatum to Yanukovych (30 August 2010), available at:
https://lb.ua/news/2010/08/30/62787_medzhlis_vidvinul_yanukovichu_ulti.html.
Mejlis Delivers Ultimatum to Yanukovych
By LB.ua
This was reported to journalists by Mustafa Dzhemilev, Chairman of the Mejlis, following the
completion of the Third Session of the Fifth Qurultay of the Crimean Tatar People.
The Mejlis’ leader explained that such decision appears from the text of the resolution adopted
by the Qurultay delegates in respect of the recent Presidential decree changing the composition
of the Council of Representatives of the Crimean Tatar People. “This resolution calls on the
President to revise (the decree – Editor’s note) taking into account the requirements of both the
Constitution and international law. In our decision, we tried to avoid a confrontational tone as
much as possible. Many delegates said we should firmly state that we will never participate in
the work of such Council. But then it was clarified that, as becomes clear from the text (of the
resolution – Editor’s note) itself, of course, the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar People will not
participate in such Council”, Mr. Dzhemilev said.
However, the Chairman of the Mejlis noted that the decision of the national congress is final.
He also added that those members of the Mejlis and delegates of the Kurultai, who are members
of the Council, will not participate in the meeting of that body that Vasily Dzharty, Chairman
of the Crimean Council of Ministers, intends to convene in the near future.
Recall that the delegates of the Kurultai of the Crimean Tatar People decided to demand that
Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych return the previous principle of forming the Council
of Representatives of the Crimean Tatar People. The resolution to that effect was adopted
unanimously during the Third Session of the Fifth Qurultay of the Crimean Tatar People.
Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych earlier cut the Council of Representatives of the
Crimean Tatar People under the President from 33 to 19 members. Furthermore, in addition to
representatives of the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar People led by its Chair Mustafa Dzhemilev,
the Council also included representatives of forces opposing the Mejlis and some public figures.
On the 20th of August, Mr. Dzhemilev asked the President to set a date for a meeting of the
Council of Representatives of the Crimean Tatar People which the President will take part in.
On the 3rd of August, representatives of the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar People refused to
participate in the Presidential meeting with representatives of the Crimean Tatars. According
to Mr. Dzhemilev, the composition of the meeting was changed at the last moment, eventually
resulting in the Crimean Tatars’ representative body refusing to visit the event. For example, in
addition to the Mejlis, activists of other Crimean Tatar organisations, including several groups
opposing the Mejlis, were invited to attend the meeting.
Exhibit H
New Day, Opinion: Mejlis to Get No Concessions from Yanukovych (30 August 2010)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit H
Translation
New Day, Opinion: Mejlis to Get No Concessions from Yanukovych (30 August 2010),
available at: https://newdaynews.ru/crimea/298375.html/amp/.
Opinion: Mejlis to Get No Concessions from Yanukovych
By Viktor Orlov from Simferopol
Viktor Yanukovych is unlikely to make any concessions to the Crimean Tatar Mejlis since the
headquarters of the Party of Regions realize that a tough response in this direction can increase
their rating, Sergei Baranov, the head of the Crimean public organisation “Civil Control”, told
Novy Region.
“The decree was signed and became effective. And Yanukovych will not cancel his decree for
the sake of the whims of the Mejlis, which is losing its authority. Moreover, the methods used
by Yanukovych’s team cause approval among the inhabitants of Crimea: in fact, he is the only
President who has put in place the illegitimate ethnic body of the Tatars. And, I think, his
Administration’s analysts know that and will use this occasion to raise the rating of the Party
of Regions and Yanukovych in Crimea”, he said.
“In fact, Yanukovych made it clear to the Mejlis that their status supposes they should
communicate with Dzharty rather than with him. He will now act solely as an arbitrator. The
Mejlis now has two ways – either to go marginal or to “kiss the hand” of the new master.
Centuries-old practices show that they are most likely to choose the second option. In any case,
the Mejlis suffered a defeat that it is unlikely to recover from”, Mr. Baranov predicted.
Exhibit I
Official Website of Saki District, Representatives of Crimean Tatar Council under Head
of Crimea Visit Saki and Saki District (17 September 2018)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit I
Translation
Official Website of Saki District, Representatives of Crimean Tatar Council under Head of
Crimea Visit Saki and Saki District (17 September 2018), available at:
http://sakirs.ru/rajonnaya-administratsiya/prioritety-ra/33-press-sluzhba/novosti/3222-
predstaviteli-soveta-krymskikh-tatar-pri-glave-respubliki-krym-posetili-sakskij-rajon-ig-
saki.
Representatives of Crimean Tatar Council under Head of Crimea Visit
Saki and Saki District
The representatives of the Council of Crimean Tatars under the Head of the Republic of Crimea
visited the town of Saki and the Saki District to meet with local public leaders.
During the working meeting, they spoke about the key goals and objectives of their work and
discussed the major topics of concern to the residents, namely the development of the Crimean
Tatar language and culture, the registration of land plots and religious buildings, and the
development of the district and town infrastructures.
Annex 15 Exhibit I
One of the key goals of the visit was to promote active cooperation between the Council and
the population, to consider the major topics and to study and solve problematic issues.
The opening speech was delivered by Eskender Bilyalov, a member of the Presidential Council
for Interethnic Relations and President of Inkishaf Society of Crimean Tatars (a Russian public
organisation). “The Saki District and the town of Saki are set as an example in matters of
interethnic relations in the Republic. Not a single unauthorised acquisition of lands has taken
place in the Saki District. I present to you the Council of Crimean Tatars, which is headed by
Sergey Aksyonov, Head of the Republic of Crimea, himself. The Council is intended to work
to better understand those issues facing the Tatars in Crimea”.
“That is why we are now travelling to various regions to reveal and discuss matters of concern
to people”, said Ayder Adzimambetov, Executive Secretary of the Crimean Mufti.
Annex 15 Exhibit I
Ayder Emirov, a research fellow at the Research Institute of the Crimean Tatar Philology and
the History and Culture of Crimean Ethnic Groups of the Crimean Engineering and Pedagogical
University (a state budgetary higher educational institution of the Republic of Crimea), told the
stories of some Crimean Tatars who were heroes of the Great Patriotic War and have deserved
but never received their awards, raising the issues of perpetuating the memory of the dead.
Lemara Selendili, Doctor of Philology and Professor of the Department of the Crimean Tatar
Philology of the Faculty of the Crimean Tatar and Oriental Philology at the Taurida Academy
of the V.I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University (a federal autonomous state higher
educational institution), raised the problem of the Crimean Tatar language. “The Council was
established to resolve the problematic issues of small peoples, and the Crimean Tatar people
are the most numerous among the small peoples – it is an indigenous people of Crimea”, she
said. “Our task is to enable the implementation of the Crimean Tatar language as the state
language”. She used as an example the Bakhchysarai District where the bus stop signs are
written in both Russian and Crimean Tatar.
The meeting continued as a dialogue, with those present asking questions of concern to them
and receiving competent and exhaustive answers.
Annex 15 Exhibit I
Galina Miroshnichenko, Head of the Saki District Administration, summed up the results of the
meeting. “I am sure, there are no interethnic problems in the Saki District. If any issues arise,
we convene our National Council – we have competent advisers such as Eskender Bilyalov and
Mesfer Settarov, and solve all those issues in a calm atmosphere”, she said.
The meeting was attended by Galina Miroshnichenko, Head of the Saki District Administration;
Andrey Ivkin, Head of the Saki Town Administration; Eskender Bilyalov, a member of the
Presidential Council for Interethnic Relations and President of Inkishaf Society of Crimean
Tatars; Ayder Emirov, a research fellow at the Research Institute of the Crimean Tatar
Philology and the History and Culture of Crimean Ethnic Groups of the Crimean Engineering
and Pedagogical University; Ayder Adzhimambetov, Executive Secretary of the Crimean
Mufti; Lemara Selendili, Doctor of Philology and Professor of the Department of the Crimean
Tatar Philology of the Faculty of the Crimean Tatar and Oriental Philology at the Taurida
Academy of the Vladimir Vernadsky Crimean Federal University; Tamila Abduveliyeva,
secretary of the meeting; the deputy heads of the Saki Town and District Administrations;
members of the Saki Town and District Councils; Mesfer Settarov, Saki District Imam and
Imam of the Yany Jami Cathedral Mosque in Saki; representatives of the administrations of
rural settlements of the Saki District; the heads of structural subdivisions of the Saki District
and Saki Town Administrations; representatives of the Centre of Culture, Arts and Folk Arts of
the Saki Town and Saki District; business people and agricultural producers from the town of
Saki and the Saki District; and representatives of the media established by the Spiritual
Direction of the Muslims of Crimea.
Annex 15 Exhibit I
Section of Organisational and Information Work of the Administration Office
Public discussions
Exhibit J
Official Website of Muftiyat, Crimean Tatar Council Begins Working with
Crimean Municipalities (PHOTO) (26 July 2018)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit J
Translation
Official Website of Muftiyat, Crimean Tatar Council Begins Working with Crimean
Municipalities (PHOTO) (26 July 2018), available at: https://qmdi.ru/sovet-kryimskihtatar-
nachal-sovmestnuyu-rabotu-s-munitsipalnyimi-obrazovaniyami-kryima-foto/.
Crimean Tatar Council Begins Working with Crimean Municipalities
(PHOTO)
Published on the 26th of July 2018
Crimean Mufti Hadji Emirali Ablayev took part in a working meeting
on the cooperation of the Crimean Tatar Council under the Head of
the Republic of Crimea with representatives of municipalities, which
was held in the State Committee for Interethnic Relations of the
Republic of Crimea.
Members of the Council discussed the role and functions of the Council and its efforts to work
with municipalities to study and solve issues.
In connection with the development of the Programme of Actions to Develop the Crimean Tatar
Language”, in fulfilment of the Decree of the President of the Russian Federation dated 21 April
2014 “On Measures to Rehabilitate the Crimean Tatar, Armenian, Bulgarian, Greek, Italian and
German Peoples and to Provide Governmental Support for Their Revival and Development”,
in accordance with Clause 3.1 of the Regulation on the Crimean Tatar Council under the Head
of the Republic of Crimea and for the purpose of monitoring the situation on the ground, the
participants of the meeting were recommended to provide details of the educational institutions
located in the municipalities for making appropriate decisions.
Press Service of the Spiritual Direction of the Muslims of Crimea (a centralised religious
organisation)
Exhibit K
Official Website of Muftiyat, The Council of the Crimean Tatar People Has Set Its Priorities
(PHOTO) (5 March 2018)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit K
Translation
Official Website of Muftiyat, The Council of the Crimean Tatar People Has Set Its Priorities
(PHOTO) (5 March 2018), available at: https://qmdi.ru/sovet-kryimskotatarskogo-narodaozvuchil-
pervoocherednyie-zadachi-foto/.
The Council of the Crimean Tatar People has set its
priorities (PHOTO)
Deputy Mufti of Crimea Aider Ismailov together with members of the Council of the Crimean
Tatars took part in a press conference: "The Council of the Crimean Tatar People: Tasks and Plans",
in Simferopol. The press conference was also attended by members of the Council of the Crimean
Tatars Lemara Selindili and Aider Emirov.
Deputy Mufti of Crimea Aider Ismailov spoke about the initiative of the Spiritual Administration of
Muslims of Crimea and Sevastopol to establish a Council of Crimean Tatars.
"People are looking for those people who will guide them, support them in difficult moments. This
is why we have been discussing with Crimean Tatar elders, intellectuals for a long time and decided
to take such a move, when professionals in their fields, respected people will listen to the people's
aspirations, bring them to state bodies, develop some programmes, recommendations to solve those
issues that concern the Crimean Tatar public," he said.
According to Aider Ismailov, the advisory council of Crimean Tatars under the Crimean leader,
approved by the head of the republic, Sergey Aksyonov, will adapt the provisions of the law on the
rehabilitation of deported people.
"Specialists who have joined (the advisory council under the Crimean head) will advise, consult and
develop certain programmes in their areas so that the existing basic legislation can be applied in
practice to meet the requirements of the time and the conditions of life in Crimea," Ismailov said.
Ismailov also said that the work of the advisory council will facilitate citizens' access to the
authorities. "The questions that we receive from citizens will be brought to our attention. Over the
past four years we have received many questions from citizens - some we have resolved, some we
are working on and studying. Recently we came to the conclusion that we need to create a public
office - we have created one, it is working in a test mode for the time being. People ask for advice:
where to go, to whom, it works for free. We are creating a certain database, an archive with the
problems that are addressed to us," he added.
Annex 15 Exhibit K
Aider Ismailov also said that currently the working group of the Council has made a preliminary
"road map" for the collection of reparations for the Crimean villages burnt by the Nazis during the
occupation.
"We have developed a preliminary road map, we have invited lawyers with whom we have
interacted before and who have done some research on this issue. Now we are at the stage of
creating a commission to study the issue. It was also decided that we will create four subgroups:
archive group, a group consisting of historians and sociologists, a group of economists and
lawyers", - said Aider Ismailov. The Deputy Mufti also described the order of further work of these
sub-groups.
"It is necessary to extract information from the archives of that time, historians and sociologists
should prepare a historical information, based on which economists will calculate the material and
moral damage that was caused, as well as the cultural damage, because mosques, madrassas and
churches were destroyed - we are talking not only about the Crimean Tatar villages. And then the
lawyers will work with these materials and figures in cooperation with the relevant committees and
ministries of the Russian Federation, sit down at the negotiating table and address the party from
which we will seek compensation," he said.
The decision to launch the procedure for the recovery from Germany of the damages inflicted on
Crimea by the Nazi occupiers during the Great Patriotic War was taken by delegates at an
extraordinary Qurultay of Crimean Muslims on 17 February 2018.
The press conference also focused on the work of the Crimean Tatar Council's humanitarian sector.
According to Lemara Selendili, doctor of philological sciences, professor of the department of
Crimean Tatar philology at the Taurida Academy of CFU, plans include issues of integrating the
people into the Russian community.
"We must now look at what we have failed to do in 30 years, and we must outline plans for the next
10 years. Plans that will allow our people to integrate smoothly, gently into the Russian community
and take their rightful place. We know that a large population of Russia is made up of Turks,
Muslims - our brothers, people who speak the languages we understand. Our task is not to dissolve,
but to step forward and solve problems of Crimean Tatars as citizens of the Russian Federation and
Crimean Tatars as a people," Lemara Selendili said. She also stressed that one of the main tasks is
to preserve the traditions and revive the functions of the native Crimean Tatar language, and this
task is entrusted to the young generation.
"It is very important at this stage to give our talented youth an opportunity to develop and not let
our youth emigrate, and the problem of employment for our youth is very important to us.
Naturally, when we are talking about language and education, we cannot avoid talking about youth
policy. All the hope is in the youth, which was born in Crimea, and the young people who actively
identify themselves by their national identity....," Lemara Selindeli stressed.
In his turn, Aider Emirov stressed that one of the tasks of the Council, in contact with the
government, is to suggest what steps should be taken and what should be emphasised.
Annex 15 Exhibit K
"In particular, to provide the Museum of Crimean Tatar Art with a new building, they are dragging
their feet in unacceptable conditions, the library building named after Gasprinskiy expand, as the
funds are crammed and no longer fit in the current building. There are a number of problems with
the mother language, and from this comes one of the most important problems, the one that holds
people together - the literary process is almost non-existent. So now we need to get serious about it.
One of the steps is to give quotas to Literature Institute in Moscow so that we can send young
people there and get serious writers in the future," Aider Emirov said.
During the press conference the speakers also answered the questions concerning participation of
Crimean Tatar community in the social and political life of the Republic.
The Council of Crimean Tatar people consisting of 15 members was established at the extraordinary
Qurultay of Muslims of Crimea that was held on February 17 in Simferopol. Among the members
of the council were the Mufti of Crimea Emirali Ablaev, president of the Crimean Tatar People's
Political Council Fevzi Yakubov, Olympic champion Rustem Kazakov, chief doctor of Inkerman
hospital Gaide Degirmenji, philologist and publicist Aider Emirov, and others.
Press Service of the Centralised Religious Organisation Spiritual Administration of Muslims of
Crimea
Exhibit L
Official Website of Muftiyat, Head of Crimea and Council of Crimean Tatars Discuss Action
Plan for 18th of May (15 May 2018)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit L
Translation
Official Website of Muftiyat, Head of Crimea and Council of Crimean Tatars Discuss
Action Plan for 18th of May (15 May 2018), available at: https://qmdi.ru/glava-respublikikryim-
i-sovet-kryimskih-tatar-obsudili-plan-meropriyatiy-na-18-maya/.
Head of Crimea and Council of Crimean Tatars Discuss Action Plan
for 18th of May
Published on the 15th of May 2018
On the 18th of May, a prayer service in memory of the victims of the
deportation of the Crimean Tatar people on the 18th of May 1944 will
be held in all mosques in the Crimea during the juma namaz (Friday
prayer). This matter was discussed at a meeting of the Council of
Crimean Tatars under the Head of the Republic with Sergey
Aksyonov.
Crimean Mufti Hadji Emirali Ablayev, who is a member of the Council of Crimean Tatars, met
with Sergey Aksyonov. During the meeting, they discussed a plan of events for the Day of
Remembrance of the Victims of Deportation from the Crimea, which will be celebrated in the
Republic on the 18th of May.
For example, as part of the events to take place on the 18th of May, a ceremony of laying flowers
to the memorial signs installed in various Crimean regions will be held at 09:30 AM. At 11:00
AM, the main requiem event will begin near the Siren railway station in the Bakhchysarai
District.
In all mosques in Crimea, a prayer service will also be held in memory of the victims of
deportation during the juma namaz. At 09:00 PM, a traditional commemorative event called
“Light a Fire in Your Heart” will take place on Lenin Square in Simferopol.
Annex 15 Exhibit L
In addition, Sergey Aksyonov recommended that memorial services in memory of all the
victims of Stalin’s deportations be also held in Orthodox churches.
He noted the importance of the Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Deportation from the
Crimea for all Crimeans, regardless of their nationalities.
“The 18th of May is a landmark date not only for the Crimean Tatar people but also for the
Republic of Crimea and the whole Russia. Traditionally, representatives of authorities take an
active part in the commemorative events. This day provides an opportunity for relatives and
friends to honour the memory of those who have never returned from the destination places of
the deportation or found themselves in a difficult life situation. But, at the same time, this is the
time for us to make our joint plans for the future to develop the culture and traditions of the
Crimean Tatar people. And the most important thing is that such situation should never be
allowed to occur again”, Mr. Aksyonov said.
Press Service of the Spiritual Direction of the Muslims of Crimea (a centralised religious
organisation)
Photo: Office of Information and Press Service of the Head of the Republic of Crimea
Exhibit M
Official Website of Muftiyat, “Our Future’s Based on Mutual Respect”, Hadji Emirali
Ablayev Says (26 June 2022)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit M
Translation
Official Website of Muftiyat, “Our Future’s Based on Mutual Respect”, Hadji Emirali
Ablayev Says (26 June 2022), available at: https://qmdi.ru/hadzhi-emirali-ablaevvzaimouvazhenie-
eto-osnova-nashego-budushhego/.
“Our Future’s Based on Mutual Respect”, Hadji Emirali Ablayev Says
Posted on the 26th of June 2022
Hadji Emirali Ablayev, the Mufti of the Muslims of the Crimea and Sevastopol, took part in a
festive event to celebrate the Day of the Crimean Tatar Flag. The celebration took place in the
Yuri Gagarin Park in Simferopol. “Today we are united here by the Crimean Tatar national
flag. We live on our native land. And this is the most important good for our people. Remember
that our future is based on mutual respect”, he stressed.
The festive events on of the Day of the Crimean Tatar Flag included a children’s entertainment
programme, competitions in kuresh, the Crimean Tatar national wrestling, and an exhibition of
decorative and applied arts. The guests enjoyed performances by artists of various creative
collectives based in the Republic of Crimea.
It should be noted that the celebrations were arranged for by the Spiritual Direction of the
Muslims of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol (Tauride Muftiyat) and the Council of Crimean
Tatars under the Head of the Republic of Crimea with support of the State Committee for
Interethnic Relations and the House of Peoples’ Friendship.
Press Service of the Spiritual Direction of the Muslims of Crimea
Annex 15 Exhibit M
Exhibit N
Official Website of Crimean Tatar Museum of Cultural and Historical Heritage, Crimean Tatar
Museum’s Employees Participate in Crimean Tatar Culture Festival in Istanbul
(December 2019)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit N
Translation
Official Website of Crimean Tatar Museum of Cultural and Historical Heritage, Crimean
Tatar Museum’s Employees Participate in Crimean Tatar Culture Festival in Istanbul
(December 2019), available at: https://krtmuseum.ru/sotrudniki-krymskotatarskogomuzeya-
prinyali-uchastie-v-festivale-kultury-krymskih-tatar-v-stambule/.
CRIMEAN TATAR MUSEUM OF CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL HERITAGE
CRIMEAN TATAR MUSEUM’S EMPLOYEES PARTICIPATE IN
CRIMEAN TATAR CULTURE FESTIVAL IN ISTANBUL
On the 14th of December, a festival of the Crimean Tatar culture was held in Istanbul. The event
was organised by the Business and Cultural Centre of the Republic of Crimea (an autonomous
state institution), the Council of the Crimean Tatar People under the Head of the Republic of
Crimea, the Federation of Crimean Tatar Cultural Associations, the Turkish Foundation for the
Development of Crimea, the International Association of Friends of Crimea in Turkey, and
various public organisations of Russian ex-pats in Istanbul.
As part of the Days of Culture, exhibitions, a conference and a concert were held. The events
were attended by Russian and Turkey public figures, cultural workers, scientists, museum staff,
people’s diplomats, representatives of the clubs of the International Association of Friends of
Crimea, and journalists.
Safiye Eminova, Director of the Crimean Tatar Museum of Cultural and Historical Heritage,
and Elvira Belyalova, Deputy Director of the Crimean Tatar Museum of Cultural and Historical
Heritage, opened an exhibition called “Crimean Tatars in Modern Realities” and made a
presentation on Crimean Tatar cultural heritage sites in the Crimea.
The exhibition, which aroused great interest among the participants, showcased the works by
professional photo artists Arvydas Shemetas and Dilyaver Mamedzhanov, as well as decorative
and applied arts such as embroidery, felt products and traditionally-styled costumes made by
modern designers and craftspeople Maira Lumanova, Khalida Kipchakova, Venera Kurmayeva,
Niyara Memetova and graduates of the Steps Crimean Tatar Embroidery School under the Sabri
Isidinov Foundation (headed by Venera Kurmayeva and Khalida Kipchakova).
The photo exhibition displayed the efforts to preserve traditions and develop the Crimean Tatar
culture in our days, including monuments of Crimean Tatar history and architecture, the
celebrations of Hydyrlez and Kurban Bayram, and the construction of schools and
kindergartens, the Cathedral Mosque and the Multicultural Centre of the Fevzi Yakubov
Crimean Engineering and Pedagogical University, national creative collectives, and the older
and younger generations.
At the end of the conference, a concert of masters of Crimean Tatar culture was held, organised
by the Hytarma Song and Dance Ensemble led by Elmira Nalbantova, a People’s Artist of the
Republic of Crimea.
Annex 15 Exhibit N
GALLERY
Exhibit O
Komsomolskaya Pravda, Ukraine to Spend UAH 60 mln on Mejlis (2 March 2016)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit O
Translation
Komsomolskaya Pravda, Ukraine to Spend UAH 60 mln on Mejlis (2 March 2016),
available at: https://www.crimea.kp.ru/online/news/2322782/.
Ukraine to Spend UAH 60 mln on Mejlis
By Anastasia Zhukova
Ukraine will spend UAH 60 mln to fund the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar People, Ukrainian
Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk announced.
According to Refat Chubarov, Chairman of the Mejlis, some of those funds will be used to
support the Crimean Tatar TV channel ATR, which is owned by Lenur Islyamov, an organiser
of the so-called “civil blockade of Crimea”.
According to the Ukrainian Ministry of Information Policy, the channel owes a debt to a
Swedish company and can now be left without satellite broadcasting.
“At the next meeting of the government, the Ukrainian Ministry of Information will submit for
discussion and adoption a resolution to repay ATR’s existing debt, in particular, out of the funds
provided for in the state budget to resolve the Crimean issues”, the Ministry’s official website
says.
We recall that Natalia Poklonskaya, Prosecutor of the Republic of Crimea, brought a lawsuit
seeking that the Mejlis be recognised as an extremist organisation and banned in the Russian
Federation.
Exhibit P
NTS, Exhibition of Unique Finds from Tavrida Highway Excavations Opened in Chersonesus
– Sevastopol Independent TV (27 September 2021)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit P
Translation
NTS, Exhibition of Unique Finds from Tavrida Highway Excavations Opened in
Chersonesus – Sevastopol Independent TV (27 September 2021), available at: https://ntstv.
com/news/vystavku-unikalnykh-nakhodok-s-raskopok-na-trasse--37367/.
Exhibition of Unique Finds from Tavrida Highway Excavations Opened in
Chersonesus – Sevastopol Independent TV
By Margarita Borisenko and Anatoly Pankov, Sevinformburo
In Sevastopol, the finds discovered during the excavations carried out as part of the construction
of the Tavrida highway were presented. The exhibition named “The World of Taurian
Barbarians and Chersonesus, Rome, and Byzantium” was opened in the Antique Exposition’s
small exhibition hall of the Taurian Chersonesus Museum Reserve. Dozens of unique and
valuable exhibits will tell the visitors about the culture of the Crimean inhabitants in the first
centuries A.D. and the influence of the Roman civilisation on the development of the entire
peninsula.
The exhibition shows Chersonesus as a key conductor for the achievements of the high ancient
culture. It presents the finds discovered during the excavations of the Frontovoye-3 and Kil-
Dere burial grounds along the Taurida Highway near Sevastopol. Archaeologists have picked
up hundreds of items that had laid in the ground for dozens of centuries, but the visitors will
see the best exhibits.
NIKOLAY MAKAROV, Director of the Institute of Archaeology of the Russian Academy
of Sciences: “We have selected the best, including masterpieces of jewellery art. Things made
of precious metals that are found in the burials, the discovery of which partially compensates
for the loss of our gold storerooms in 2014. A small but the best part is exhibited. Here are the
most striking complexes of women’s burials and dresses”.
The exhibition presents clothes, jewellery, numerous dishes, ritual things, and weapons. Each
exhibit demonstrates the influence of the Roman culture on the Crimean population in the first
centuries A.D. These items became a breakthrough in the craft business of the masters of the
Roman Empire and Byzantium. At the burial ground in Frontovoye near the Tavrida Highway,
archaeologists found more than 150 gold and about 320 glass articles. One of the exhibits shown
is a mystery for scientists. It is a cup of unknown origin, decorated with patterns of white and
turquoise glass. By its features, it did not originate from any of the known ancient glass
production centres.
ANNA MASTYKOVA, Doctor of Historical Sciences and Lead Research Fellow at the
Institute of Archaeology of the Russian Academy of Sciences: “The chemical composition
of glass was subjected to an analysis. It showed that this glass definitely did not originate from
Pannonia. Its exact origin is unknown. It is clear today that there should be another large glass
production centre which we still know nothing about”.
A special place in the exhibition is occupied by stands showing the results of the reconnaissance
carried out by experts of the Institute of Archaeology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the
Annex 15 Exhibit P
State Hermitage Museum, and the Taurian Chersonesus Museum Reserve in the southern
suburbs of the ancient settlement in 2020. They have discovered cultural layers reflecting all
eras of the city’s two-thousand-year history – materials incomprehensible to the mass audience
but containing tons of valuable information for scientists.
LARISA SEDIKOVA, Deputy Director of the Taurian Chersonesus Historical and
Archaeological Museum Reserve for Scientific Work: “In my opinion, the most interesting
were the results of research of the necropolis of the first centuries A.D., which made it possible
to identify a number of items discovered by Karl Kazemirovich Kostsyushko-Valyuzhinich, the
founder of our Museum. In particular, we now know where exactly the crypt he explored was
located. We now understand perfectly well that this section accommodated an elite Chersonesus
necropolis where the most respected members of the Chersonesus families were buried”.
The exhibition named “The World of Taurian Barbarians and Chersonesus, Rome, and
Byzantium” will be open in the Antique Exposition’s small exhibition hall of the Taurian
Chersonesus Museum Reserve until the 22nd of November.
Exhibit Q
Tavrida Muftiyat, Statement No. 31, 22 February 2023
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit Q
Translation
Tavrida Muftiyat, Statement No. 31, 22 February 2023.
Centralised Religious Organisation
Spiritual Administration of Muslims of the Republic of Crimea and the City
of Sevastopol
(Tavrida Muftiyat)
295001, Republic of Crimea, Simferopol, Kurchatov Street, 4
Tel. +7(978)074 18 47, E-mail: [email protected]
22.02.2023 No.31
STATEMENT
The Spiritual Administration of Muslims of the Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol
closely monitored the process of building of the Tavrida highway and accompanying
construction and research works.
The Muftiyat is aware that during the respective works, a number of ancient burial sites were
discovered. An archeological examination of the territory in question established that the burial
place were ancient: some of them are dated I-IV centuries AD. The discovered remains belong
to representatives of Muslim and Christian confessions; scores of the deceased had been buried
according to pagan rituals.
The Muftiyat welcomes the efforts of the researchers who professionally performed their work
and comprehensively studied the relevant highway sections. The performed research provided
another opportunity to shed light on the history of Crimea and life and household of various
peoples populating the Peninsula in the past.
The Muftiyat strongly condemns the attempts of individual provocateurs, who, in order to
destabilize interethnic relations, try to present the performed excavations as ‘harassment’ of
Muslims and Crimean Tatars. It is well known that the remains of representatives of various
confessions were found; construction works did not commence till the full completion of the
archeological examination.
The Muftiyat took a direct part in the relocation of the remains and their reburial in accordance
with all the Muslim traditions. Besides, the Muftiyat has many times explained to the faithful
that Muslim custom forbids disturbing burial sites. That said, the necessary archeological
research of ancient Muslim burial sites and subsequent reburial of the remains due to performed
construction works do not violate the norms of Islam.
Mufti of Muslims of Crimea (signature) E.S. Ablayev
(seal)
Exhibit R
Official Website of Muftiyat, Social Activists to Monitor Restoration of Khan Palace
(22 March 2022)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit R
Translation
Official Website of Muftiyat, Social Activists to Monitor Restoration of Khan Palace (22
March 2022), available at: https://qmdi.ru/za-restavracziej-hanskogo-dvorcza-budutsledit-
obshhestvenniki/.
Social Activists to Monitor Restoration of Khan Palace
Date of publication: 22 March 2022
On the initiative of Haji Emirali Ablayev, the Crimean Mufti, a Public Expert Council has been
established to publicly control, monitor and advise on the repair and restoration works on the
Khan’s Palace in Bakhchisaray, a federally significant monument of cultural heritage dating
back to the period from the 16th through 19th centuries A.D. The first constituent meeting was
held under the presidency of Sergey Aksyonov, the Head of the Republic of Crimea. “The
Khan’s Palace is not only a pearl of Crimea but also a unique and one-of-a-kind monument in
terms of traditions and culture of the Crimean Tatar people. The restoration works are planned
to restore the Palace in its original appearance”, he said.
The Public Expert Council consists of Dmitry Rudnitsky, Chairman of the Union of Restorers,
Emil Seidaliyev, an archaeologist and the head of the Department of History at the Fevzi
Yakubov Crimean Engineering and Pedagogical University, Andrei Malgin, an historian and a
local lore expert, Eldar Yayachik and Enver Emiradzhiyev, engineers and builders, as well as
Valery Borisov and Shukri Khalilov, architects and restorers.
“The work of this Council will help builders and restorers and facilitate the explanatory efforts
among the public, thereby preventing various speculations around the restoration of the Khan’s
Palace”, said Haji Emirali Ablayev, the Crimean Mufti. Sergey Aksyonov noted that the Public
Expert Council will also monitor other objects of cultural heritage in the future.
“Since there are more than 4,000 various cultural monuments in the Republic of Crimea, I
suggest that the main objects of cultural heritage that are unique and symbolize the key
historical milestones in the historical development of Crimea should be selected. These include
the major palace complexes and monuments relating to the culture of all peoples who lived on
the peninsula. The Council will develop technical tasks for the repair and restoration works to
be carried out on these objects. That will help avoid unnecessary costs and ensure the
preservation of the original appearance of the sites”, he clarified.
Annex 15 Exhibit R
The meeting was also attended by Mikhail Nazarov, Deputy Chairman of the Council of
Ministers of the Republic of Crimea, Karlen Petrosyan, Minister of Construction and
Architecture of the Republic of Crimea, Tatyana Manezhina, Minister of Culture of the
Republic of Crimea, and Ayder Tippa, Chairman of the State Committee for Interethnic
Relations of the Republic of Crimea.
Prepared by the Press Service of the Spiritual Direction of the Muslims of Crimea based on the
information provided by the Information Department and the Press Service of the Head of the
Republic of Crimea.
Exhibit S
RIA Novosti, Over 50% of Those Crimean Tatars Who Left Peninsula after Referendum
Have Returned, Authorities Say (4 August 2015)
(translation)
Annex 15 Exhibit S
Translation
RIA Novosti, Over 50% of Those Crimean Tatars Who Left Peninsula after Referendum
Have Returned, Authorities Say (4 August 2015), available at:
https://ria.ru/20150804/1162301705.html.
RIA Novosti
4 August 2015
Over 50% of Those Crimean Tatars Who Left Peninsula after Referendum
Have Returned, Authorities Say
© RIA Novosti / Yury Lashov
The Crimean Tatar returnees openly declare they are disappointed in the bright
prospects promised to them by Ukraine, Ruslan Balbek, Deputy Prime Minister of
the Crimean Government, said.
SIMFEROPOL, 4th of August — RIA Novosti. About 450 Crimean Tatars, accounting for
more than one half of those who left the Crimea after its reunification with Russia, have come
back and asked for help in getting Russian citizenship, Ruslan Balbek, Deputy Prime Minister
of the Crimean Government, told RIA Novosti.
“More than half of those Crimean Tatars who left the Crimea under the influence of anti-
Russian propaganda have returned to their historical homeland. These are about 450 people.
Moreover, they are actively appealing to the Council of Ministers, asking us to assist them in
getting Russian citizenship and jobs”, Mr. Balbek said.
Annex 15 Exhibit S
According to him, the Crimean Tatar returnees openly declare they are disappointed in the
bright prospects promised to them by Ukraine. In total, according to various estimates, 600 to
800 Crimean Tatars have left the peninsula, including students planning to continue their studies
at Ukrainian universities, Mr. Balbek said.
As he put it, “those Crimean Tatars who left the peninsula under the influence of Ukrainian
propaganda found themselves in an unstable country” where “there were slogans instead of jobs
and manifest calls for waging a war against their own people and a forced mobilisation into the
combat zone instead of stability”. “Crimean Tatars returned to their homeland and saw for
themselves how their compatriots live here, so they no longer want to live in the post-Maidan
Ukraine”, Mr. Balbek said.
The Crimea became a Russian region again after the referendum in March 2014 where the
overwhelming majority of residents of the then Ukrainian autonomy who refused to recognise
the legitimacy of the February coup d’état in Ukraine voted for joining the Russian Federation.
Moscow emphasises that the Crimean referendum complied with international law and the UN
Charter.
Volume IV - Annexes 10-15