After Ukrainian independence in 1991, most of the peninsula was reorganised as the Autonomous Republic of Crimea. The Soviet fleet in Crimea was in contention, but a 1997 treaty allowed Russia to continue basing its fleet in Sevastopol.

Crimea, autonomous republic, southern Ukraine. The republic is coterminous with the Crimean Peninsula, lying between the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov. In 2014 Russia covertly invaded and illegally annexed Crimea, a move that was denounced by the international community.

Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the Republic of Crimea was formed in 1992, although the republic was abolished in 1995, with the Autonomous Republic of Crimea established firmly under Ukrainian authority and Sevastopol being administered as a city with special status.

Explosion Destroys Key Structure on Kerch Bridge Linking Crimea and Russia Ukrainian forces reportedly detonate large explosives, causing significant damage to the strategic bridge. An explosion occurred on the Kerch Bridge, a vital transport link between Russia and Crimea, early on Tuesday morning.

To pressure Moscow, Ukraine is stepping up an air campaign to isolate the peninsula, which Russia annexed in 2014.

The Crimea Platform is a new international consultation and coordination format initiated by Ukraine The Crimea Platform gathers under its auspices all thematic events and initiatives on the Crimean issue within the framework of international organizations, other international governmental and non-governmental forums More details

Fuel shortages and fears rock Crimea as Kyiv attacks the annexed peninsula.

It has been 11 years since Russia took control of Crimea but Moscow's invasion of Ukraine has put the peninsula back in the global spotlight. Here's what you need to know.

While the takeover of Crimea was nearly bloodless, the situation in eastern Ukraine quickly descended into a state of open warfare that claimed more than 10,000 lives over the next four years.

Stay informed with the latest news, video, live updates and expert analysis about Crimea crisis from across the BBC.