Russian annexation (2014)

In 2014, Russia annexed Crimea, a region previously part of Ukraine. This action followed political unrest in Ukraine and a swift military intervention by Russia, which included unmarked troops and local referendums. Russia claimed the annexation was legitimate, citing the will of Crimean residents. However, most of the international community viewed it as a violation of international law and Ukraine’s sovereignty. The annexation led to sanctions against Russia and increased tensions between Russia and Western countries, impacting regional stability and international relations.