Russia and Ukraine clash at international court over control of Kerch Strait

Sponsored Ad

Ukraine has accused Russia of violating maritime law by attempting to control the Kerch Strait, a vital waterway between mainland Russia and the Crimean Peninsula. Both nations presented their arguments at the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague, Netherlands, as part of an ongoing legal dispute.

Ukraine's representative, Anton Korynevych, argued that Russia seeks exclusive control of the Sea of Azov and the Kerch Strait, violating international maritime laws. Ukraine filed the case in 2016, following Russia’s construction of the 19-kilometer Crimea Bridge, which connects Russia to the Crimean Peninsula, annexed in 2014. Ukraine wants the bridge demolished, asserting it restricts international shipping by allowing only smaller Russian vessels through.

Russia, represented by Gennady Kuzmin, denied the accusations and questioned the court's jurisdiction over the case. Kuzmin argued that Ukraine’s claims are outside the scope of the PCA's authority.

The hearings will continue until October 5, and the court may take several months or even years to issue a ruling.