Putin: Crimea is an Integral Part of Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized to readers of the book "Crimea: Pages of History from Ancient Times to the Present" that the Crimean Peninsula and Sevastopol have now become "an integral part of Russia." President Putin stated, "Indeed, March 16, 2014, was a turning point for the people of Sevastopol and the residents of Crimea." He noted that "the inhabitants of the peninsula made a clear and firm choice on that day to be with Russia forever. Today, the Crimean Peninsula and Sevastopol have become an integral part of the Russian Federation." President Putin added that these regions significantly contribute to strengthening Russia's unity and security. Earlier, President Vladimir Putin confirmed that if he had not been completely confident in the desire of Russian citizens, including the residents of Crimea, for the peninsula to return to Russia, he would not have acted on it.