On June 26, Ukraine celebrates the Day of the Crimean Tatar Flag - honoring the ethnic symbol of the Crimean Tatars.

The modern Crimean Tatar flag was first approved by the first Kurultai of the Crimean Tatar people in 1917, held in Bakhchisaray. Since then, the blue flag with a golden temga has become an important symbol of Crimean Tatar identity.

Since its inception, the Crimean Tatar flag has repeatedly been subject to bans.

After the temporary occupation of Crimea in 2014, Russia renewed the criminal Soviet practices against the Crimean Tatar people, aimed at destroying the historical memory, distinctive culture and language of the Crimean Tatar people.

Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine has led to an even greater deterioration of the situation with basic freedoms and human rights on the Crimean peninsula. The Russian occupation authorities continue the policy of discrimination on ethnic and religious grounds, political persecution and brutal repression against the indigenous people.

This day serves as a reminder of the resistance of the Crimean Tatar people and their determination to preserve their culture and identity. The return of the Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar flags will mean the return of freedom and prosperity to the peninsula.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine calls on partners, in particular, on the International Crimean Platform, to increase support for Ukraine for the fastest victory over the Russian invaders and the liberation of all territories.