Russia recognizes sovereignty of Donbass Republics

22 февраля 2022
Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree recognizing the independence of the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics late last night. Also, the treaties of friendship, cooperation and assistance, including in the area of defense were concluded.  

Vladimir Putin, President of Russia:
In this regard, I consider it necessary to adopt a  long overdue decision to immediately recognize the independence and sovereignty of the Donetsk People's Republic and the Lugansk People's Republic. I request the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation to support this decision and then ratify the treaties of friendship and mutual assistance with these republics.

Putin has already instructed the army to ensure peace in the Donbass Republics and ensure the operation of banking systems. The evacuation of residents of the region to Russia is continuing. Yesterday, the first train with refugees arrived in Nizhny Novgorod. Tens of thousands of people have already left Donbass.