Separatists in Ukraine set 'referendums' on annexation of occupied territories

Synopsis

Russian-backed separatists in several Ukrainian regions, including the self-proclaimed Luhansk and Donetsk People's Republics, announce referendums on joining Russia. Voting is set to begin on Friday in these regions, as well as in Kherson in southern Ukraine. This decision comes amid Ukraine's ongoing counter-offensive, which has pushed Russian troops back. The urgency of the referendums follows months of speculation and postponed dates, indicating a shift in strategy as Russia seeks to formally incorporate these territories. Observers expect the results to favor annexation, with Russian officials indicating a swift acceptance of the outcomes. The situation reflects a departure from Russia's previous pretense of supporting independent entities in Donetsk and Luhansk, as the Russian army becomes more directly involved in the conflict.