A senior Ukrainian official in charge of Crimea policy emphasized the urgent need to reclaim the region from Russia, citing the ongoing process of Russification.

Tamila Tasheva, permanent representative of the president of Ukraine in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, spoke to NHK in Kyiv on Friday ahead of the 10th anniversary of Russia's unilateral annexation of the region.

She said Crimea's residents have lived in fear over the past decade, deprived of freedom and the rule of law.

She said about 800,000 people have migrated from Russia to Crimea, and that a large number of Ukrainians have faced oppression and been forced to evacuate to other areas, contributing to the Russification of Crimea.

Tasheva also criticized the infrastructure developments in Crimea. She pointed out that a highway was designed to move military personnel and equipment efficiently and swiftly, and that a bridge was built also mainly for military purposes rather than regional development.

She said the bridge connecting Crimea and Russia serves as a supply route for a wide range of weapons, and that it should not exist. She indicated the bridge will remain a target for Ukrainian forces.

The official stressed the importance of time and said Kyiv must regain control of Crimea as soon as possible. She said Ukraine deeply understands the pain the Japanese people feel over the Northern Territories.

Japan claims four northern islands that are controlled by Russia. The Japanese government maintains the islands are an inherent part of Japan's territory. It says the islands were illegally occupied after World War Two.

Tasheva noted the international community's restrained reaction to Russia's annexation of Crimea. She said not everyone in the international community has taken proactive measures beyond issuing statements opposing the annexation.

She called for cooperation, saying gaining maximum military support is important for her country to recapture Crimea.