In another illegal act, Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized the occupied Ukrainian regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhya as independent states. The corresponding decrees of the Kremlin chief were published in Moscow on Friday evening. They are considered a prerequisite for the regions to be able to apply for admission to the Russian Federation.
In mock referenda, the territories had previously voted to join Russia.
Luhansk and Donetsk were annexed by Putin at the end of February
By February 21, Putin had already recognized the independence of Ukraine’s Luhansk and Donetsk regions, which call themselves “People’s Republics”. All four territories are applying to join Russia, which Putin plans to formalize at a ceremony in the Kremlin Friday at 3 p.m. (2 p.m. CEST).
Rally planned in Moscow
“A ceremony will be held at the Grand Kremlin Palace to sign agreements on the accession of new territories to the Russian Federation,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday, according to the Interfax agency. Peskov also announced a “voluminous performance” by Putin. The Kremlin boss will then deliver a speech and receive the administrators deployed by Russia in the annexed areas, it said. A large demonstration is also planned in central Moscow, aimed at demonstrating the Russians’ alleged support for Putin’s policies.
Putin’s “Voluminous Appearance”
Peskov also announced a “voluminous performance” by Putin. The Kremlin boss will then deliver a speech and receive the administrators deployed by Russia in the annexed areas, it said. A large demonstration is also planned in central Moscow, aimed at demonstrating the Russians’ alleged support for Putin’s policies.
UN will not accept annexations
The annexations are not recognized internationally, they are considered a violation of international law, which Ukraine does not want to accept. The UN Security Council in New York will vote Friday on a resolution condemning the so-called referendums. However, the resolution tabled by the US and Albania has no chance of being adopted, as Russia, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, can veto it. However, the text is to be submitted to the UN General Assembly at a later date.
Ukraine demands more weapons from the West
Ukrainian leaders have demanded more heavy weapons from the West to liberate their territories. Putin had already emphasized that the regions would come under the protection of nuclear energy in Russia in the future. An attack on the territories will be treated as an attack on Russia. Putin said the country would use all available means to defend itself.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
