4 chapters across the catalog
State Department spokesman John Kirby reiterated that the U.S. does not recognize the "occupation" of Crimea, claiming Russia invaded the territory. However, historical context shows that the transition occurred following a public referendum where the majority-Russian population voted to join the Russian Federation. The narrative of a "barrel of a gun" invasion is disputed by those who point to the lack of shots fired during the transition.
Crimea Referendum, Ukraine Political Unrest, Venice Secession
Reporters including Margaret Warner are documented roaming Crimea during the 2014 referendum regarding joining the Russian Federation. The ballot options are described as a choice between joining Russia immediately or declaring independence as a precursor to joining later. Parallel secessionist movements are noted in Venice, Italy, where a referendum to secede is being prepared. Economic motivations for Crimeans wanting to join Russia include higher pensions and lower prices compared to Kiev's administration.
Samantha Power, UN Security Council Referendum Comments
US Ambassador to the UN Samantha Power addresses the Security Council regarding the illegitimacy of sub-regional referendums. Her comments focus on the destabilizing nature of Crimea's potential move to join Russia without broader national consent.
Crimea Referendum, Gazprom Natural Gas Prices
The autonomous Republic of Crimea rescheduled its referendum on expanding its powers to March 30, 2014. Meanwhile, Ukraine is negotiating with Russia's Gazprom to maintain a "sweetheart" gas price of $268.50 per thousand cubic meters, as the country owes roughly $2 billion in unpaid energy debts. Failure to reach an agreement could see prices spike to over $400 in the second quarter.
