Putin signs a decree recognizing independence of breakaway Ukrainian regions of Donetsk, Luhansk

Putin signs a decree recognizing independence of breakaway Ukrainian regions of Donetsk, Luhansk

• Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree recognizing the independence of breakaway Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk. Putin made this announcement during a televised address to Russians.
• Putin also ordered deployment of troops to two breakaway regions in eastern Ukraine after recognising them as independent.
• Putin told Russia's defence ministry to send forces into the two regions to keep the peace. The moves drew US and European condemnation and vows of new sanctions. However, it was not immediately clear whether the Russian military action would be regarded by the West as the start of a fullscale invasion.

Published date : 22 Feb 2022 06:30PM