Putin recognizes LPR and DPR independence

Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided to recognize the LPR and DPR as independent states and called on the Federal Assembly to support the move.
The LPR and DPR Heads addressed Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday, February 21, asking him to recognize the Republics as independent.
They both asked to consider the possibility of signing an agreement of friendship and cooperation between Russia and the LPR, including the cooperation in the sphere of defence. 
Putin and the Heads of the Republics signed the agreement of friendship immediately after Putin announced the recognition of their states. *ot