In this way, it is hoped that those Crimean sanction mechanisms that have sealed off the peninsula and its population from the outside world for more than six years could also stop this [desalination] project [in Crimea]. Numerous politicians in Russia have already condemned this position as a sign of inhumane behaviour – not for the first time in the six years. These statements show hatred against the Crimean population […] . The situation is unprecedented by international standards.
Recurring pro-Kremlin disinformation narrative about Ukraine and Crimea.
The North Crimean Canal is the only structure through which the Crimea received water from the Dnipro River. After Russia’s illegal annexation of the peninsula, the Ukrainian leadership stated that the main condition for the renewal of the agreements on the water supply to the Crimea is re-institution of legitimate authorities on the peninsula, which after the annexation of the Crimea are absent. Ukraine decided to close the locks of the North Crimean Canal and stated that it would resume water supply to the peninsula only after the complete de-occupation of Crimea. Under international law, Russia has the duty to provide supplies in those territories.
Crimea was illegally annexed by Moscow based on an illegitimate referendum. On 27 March 2014, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution in which it stated that the referendum in Crimea was not valid and could not serve as a basis for any change in the status of the peninsula. On 17 December 2018, the UN General Assembly confirmed its non-recognition of the illegal annexation of Crimea.