Russian Annexation of Crimea

The Russian annexation of Crimea occurred in 2014 when Russia took control of the Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine. Following political unrest in Ukraine, Russia moved troops into Crimea and held a disputed referendum, which led to the territory's official annexation by Russia. This action was condemned internationally, as most countries view it as a violation of Ukrainian sovereignty and international law. The annexation significantly heightened tensions between Russia and Western nations, contributing to ongoing conflict in the region.