SPIEGEL: Mr. Admiral, are you concerned about a possible war between Russia and Ukraine?More.
Tenyukh: The situation is serious. But our government is doing all it can to find a peaceful solution. I am proud of our officers and our soldiers on the Crimean peninsula. Despite the blockade imposed by Russian special units, they haven't allowed themselves to be provoked into firing a single shot.
SPIEGEL: Could that not also be a product of the Ukrainian army's weakness? Your ministry recently informed interim President Oleksandr Turchynov that only 6,000 soldiers out of a total of 41,000, and just one in six airplanes, are available.
Tenyukh: Of course Russia is vastly superior. But we stand with our weapons at hand ready to defend the territorial integrity of Ukraine. Many young men are now reporting to bear arms. I too am prepared to die for my country.
SPIEGEL: Might Ukraine attempt to take back the Crimea if it is annexed by Russia following the referendum?
Tenyukh: That is a question for the political leadership of our country. This so-called referendum won't just be seen by Ukraine as a violation of international law, rather by the entire world.
SPIEGEL: Yet many people on the Crimean peninsula sympathize with Russia.
Tenyukh: But there are more people there who are opposed to being annexed by Russia.
Also, "Ticking Timebomb: Moscow Moves to Destabilize Eastern Ukraine," and "Crimea Sanctions: Europe Should Impose Stiffer Penalties."
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