The United Kingdom has condemned the opening of the bridge from mainland Russia to the Crimean peninsula, and highlighted the UK's concerns about human rights in Crimea.
"Crimea is part of Ukraine, and its annexation by Russia is a breach of international law," Minister for Europe Sir Alan Duncan said in a statement on the opening of the Kerch Strait Bridge, published on the official website of the UK's government.
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"The opening of this bridge represents yet another violation of Ukraine's sovereignty, and a further example of Russia's reckless behavior. We continue to work with partners to oppose the annexation, including by maintaining a robust package of sanctions," he said.
Sir Alan Duncan said the UK also remains deeply concerned by the human rights situation in Crimea, where it can be seen the systematic persecution of minority groups and of those who voice their opposition to Russia's illegal annexation of the territory.
"We call again for Russia to release all Ukrainian political prisoners held in Crimea and in Russia, and to allow unrestrained access for international human rights monitoring bodies to the peninsula," he added.
