Ukraine has accused Russia of violating maritime law by attempting to control the Kerch Strait, which separates mainland Russia from Crimea, a peninsula that Russia annexed from Ukraine in 2014. The two nations are facing off at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, with Ukraine arguing that Russia is trying to claim the sea for itself.
The dispute stems from Russia’s construction of the Crimea Bridge, which connects mainland Russia to Crimea and is vital for the supply of goods to the region. Ukraine believes that Russia built the bridge low intentionally to restrict access to international ships while allowing smaller Russian vessels through. Ukraine wants the bridge demolished, alleging that Russia’s actions violate international maritime law.
Russia, on the other hand, denies interfering with navigation and claims that the court has no jurisdiction over the case. Russia argues that Ukraine’s claims are baseless and fall outside the court’s scope.
The Permanent Court of Arbitration, established in 1899, is the world’s oldest arbitral tribunal and resolves disputes between countries and private parties over various agreements and treaties. The hearings are expected to continue until October 5, with a decision likely taking months or years to reach.
The outcome of the case could have significant implications for the sovereignty of Crimea and control over the Kerch Strait, which is an important supply route for Russia’s Black Sea Fleet. Both Ukraine and Russia are seeking a favorable ruling in this high-stakes legal battle over the strategic waterway.
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