Crimea's Historical Significance and Role in the Ongoing Conflict in Ukraine
Crimea, a strategic peninsula at the nexus of great power competition, has a long history of being coveted and controlled by various empires. The region's name and origins are shrouded in mystery, with theories suggesting Mongol or Turkic roots. The Crimean War in the mid-19th century was a significant conflict involving Russia, the Ottoman Empire, and other global powers. Crimea's importance continues to be a central issue in the ongoing war in Ukraine.