Putin says he'll recognize separatist regions as independent
Russian President Vladimir Putin in an address to the Russian people announced recognition of the two Russian-controlled separatist regions in eastern Ukraine's eastern Donbas region, the self-proclaimed People’s Republics of Donetsk and Lugansk.
"I deem it necessary to make a decision that should have been made long ago," Putin said. "I am confident I will have support of the people of Russia."
Putin also made a menacing warning to Ukraine’s government, telling it to “immediately cease all military action” near the separatist regions or else they will face “full responsibility” for further consequences and bloodshed.
United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson condemned Putin's decision, saying at a press conference, "This is plainly in breach of international law -- it's a flagrant violation of the sovereignty and integrity of Ukraine. ... It is a repudiation of the Minsk process and the Minsk Agreements."
"I think it's a very ill omen and a very dark sign," Johnson said, adding, it's "yet another indication that things are moving in the wrong direction in Ukraine."
https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/live-updates/russia-ukraine/?id=82467772 
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