VIDEO. Long-awaited decision. Putin signs decrees recognizing the independence of Donetsk and Luhansk

As previously reported, Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced the recognition of the independence of the Donetsk and Luhansk republics.

The President of the Russian Federation signed a decree on the recognition of the Donbas republics. The ceremony took place in the Kremlin.

“I find it necessary to make a long-overdue decision to immediately recognize the independence of the DPR and LPR,” the head of state said in a televised address to the Russian people.

In addition to the decree recognizing independence, Putin, along with the leaders of Donetsk and Luhansk present at the Kremlin, Pushilin and Pasechnik, signed treaties on friendship, cooperation, and support between the Russian Federation and the Donbas republics.

“Congratulations,” said the President of Russia to Pasechnik and Pushilin.

Putin addressed the nation a few hours after a meeting of the Security Council of Russia, where the request from the leaders of Donetsk and Luhansk to Moscow to recognize the independence of the republics was discussed.