Putin signs decree recognizing Crimea as independent state

Johannesburg, Mar. 18 (ANI): Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree recognizing Crimea as a sovereign state.

The move comes after the Ukrainian region declared itself independent and applied to join Russia following a weekend referendum.

According to news24, the decree posted on the Kremlin's website appeared to be a first step towards integrating Crimea as a part of the Russian Federation.

The decree said Moscow recognition of Crimea as independent is based on 'the will of the people of Crimea,' the report added. (ANI)