AMU Homeland Security

UN Calls Crimea Referendum Illegal

By William Tucker
Chief Correspondent for In Homeland Security

The United Nations General Assembly passed a non-binding resolution that reaffirms Ukraine’s territorial integrity and describes the Crimean referendum for independence, and subsequent annexation by Russia, as illegal. Though the resolution passed, its non-binding nature makes the declaration an empty gesture. Russia will not concede Crimea and the critics of the annexation have essentially accepted that as fact. Washington and the EU will most likely impose more sanctions on Russian politicians close to president Putin, but any sort of conflict supporting the newly elected Ukrainian government has been explicitly taken off the table. The most the West has done for Ukraine is to grant a multibillion dollar aid package to help manage Kiev’s crushing debt. Russia on the other hand isn’t done with Ukraine and is not satisfied with taking Crimea. Moscow seems intent on pushing its advantage where it can, and the tens of thousands of Russian troops that have been stationed on Ukraine’s border are positioned there for good measure. Putin may opt for a limited invasion of Ukraine in the east, but Russia’s purpose for following such a path are unclear. Russia could conceivably strengthen pro-Russian Ukrainians without using conventional military methods, but the presence of the troops are a clear reminder that Moscow is keeping its options open. The situation is tense for those in Eastern Europe and is likely to remain so in the near term.

William Tucker serves as a senior security representative to a major government contractor where he acts as the Counterintelligence Officer, advises on counterterrorism issues, and prepares personnel for overseas travel. His additional duties include advising his superiors in matters concerning emergency management and business continuity planning.

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