Russian officials in the occupied Ukrainian territories have now officially started the process of annexation. As reported by the head of the Russian occupation administration of Zaporizhia Oblast Yevheni Balitskyi, he instructed the oblast election commission “to start work on the issue of organizing a referendum on the reunification of Zaporizhia Oblast with the Russian Federation” (source here).
Supposedly 700 delegates voted for it at an event in Zaporizhia. Putin’s spokesman Peskov also claimed that the Ukrainians would demand the votes. For the purpose of an official facade, Russia has probably founded an organization called “We are together with Russia”, in which Ukrainians who are said to be willing to join are organized.
The advance in Zaporizhia is another sign that Russia wants to implement the annexation of southern Ukrainian areas as quickly as possible. Crimea is a role model. The referendums would not be recognized by the vast majority of countries around the world. In addition to the symbolic success, Russia could also use it as a military lever. If the Ukrainians try to recapture them in the future, Russia could see this as an attack on its own territory and further escalate the conflict – even to the point of using nuclear weapons for “defense”.
1. Interview with widow of “Azov” fighter: “They were tortured all the time. And they continue to be”
2. Iranian-Russian drone deal: How Ukraine can stop Tehran’s Himar killers
3. Kherson’s residents are waiting for their liberation: “If we don’t see Ukrainian missiles, we get very nervous”
4. Allegations against Ukrainian warfare: There must be no amnesty for lying
