Dear CCI Friends,
American TV channels are carrying news tonight about Russia’s “invasion of Ukraine.” At this point it’s not clear if it is only the Donbass region in which primarily Russian citizens live.
For many decades the two lived together with few challenges; however, it’s become more difficult since the early 2000s. More to follow on this situation tomorrow when more is known.
Sharon Tennison
Center for Citizen Initiatives
Putin Announces ‘Special Operation’ in Donbass
The special military operation will be aimed at “the defense of” the newly-recognized republics of Donetsk and Lugansk
February 24, 2022
Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced he ordered his country’s military to conduct a special operation in the Donbass region after the leaders of the breakaway republics asked Moscow for military assistance in response to what they claim is an increase in “Ukrainian aggression.”
“Circumstances require us to take decisive and immediate action,” the order reads. “The People’s Republics of Donbass turned to Russia with a request for help. In this regard, in accordance with Article 51, part 7 of the UN Charter, with the sanction of the Federation Council and in pursuance of the friendship treaties ratified by the Federal Assembly and mutual assistance with the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics, I have decided to conduct a special military operation,” Putin concludes.