- Jul 1, 2018
- 2,324
Russian Federation
Security Classification: ENCRYPTED
Dear President Leonid Kuchma,
The Government of the Russian Federation extends its highest regards to the Government of Ukraine and reiterates its commitment to the shared goals outlined in the Treaty on the Strategic Lease and Joint Security Arrangement Concerning the Crimean Peninsula, signed between our two nations. We respectfully seek an update on the treaty’s progress through the Verkhovna Rada, including the expected timeline for ratification and any legislative developments that may impact the terms or implementation of the agreement.
Of particular importance to the Russian Federation is the use and operational status of the Sevastopol Naval Base as stipulated under the Treaty’s provisions. As outlined in:
- Article I, granting the Russian Federation a 99-year lease over the Crimean Peninsula including ports and infrastructure,
- Article IV, which permits the Russian Federation to maintain a permanent naval and air force presence and operate military facilities within the leased territory,
- Article VII, providing for immediate and unrestricted Russian access to Sevastopol Naval Base for the deployment and stationing of up to six vessels, supported by necessary personnel and logistics, the full and secure use of Sevastopol Naval Base is critical to fulfilling the Treaty’s intent to ensure regional stability and mutual security interests.
We also request clarification on the coordination mechanisms foreseen for the Joint Security Committee and the Ukrainian liaison military mission in Sevastopol, which are vital to maintaining transparency, preventing misunderstandings, and ensuring operational deconfliction in the Black Sea.
Furthermore, information regarding the financial terms outlined in Article V, specifically the schedule and conditions of the payments totaling $5 billion USD related to the transfer of control and use rights over the Naval Base and the Peninsula, would be appreciated.
The Russian Federation remains committed to upholding its obligations under the Treaty and stands ready to assist in any technical or diplomatic consultations necessary to facilitate the smooth ratification and implementation of the agreement by both Parties. We look forward to your prompt update on the legislative progress and any considerations the Ukrainian government may wish to communicate.
Kind Regards,
Vladimir Putin
President of Russia
Russian Federation
Cyclonic
