EU: We Will Respond Firmly to Russia's Recognition of Separatists in Eastern Ukraine

The European Union stated on Monday that it would respond firmly to Russia's recognition of separatists in eastern Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized the independence of two separatist regions in eastern Ukraine during an emotional speech broadcast on state television, despite Western warnings that the move could lead to extensive sanctions on Moscow. Putin said, "I believe it is necessary to make a decision that has been delayed for too long, to immediately recognize the independence and sovereignty of both the Donetsk People's Republic and the Luhansk People's Republic," before state television aired footage of his signing in the Kremlin with the leaders of the separatist regions on agreements for mutual cooperation.