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Post by Newsman on Mar 18, 2024 13:53:09 GMT -5
(The Guardian) Crowds gather near Red Square ahead of rally to mark Russia's annexation of Crimea and Putin's election victoryA rally/concert to mark the 10th anniversary of Russia’s annexation of Crimea is due to take place shortly. The event, being held in central Moscow, will also mark Vladimir Putin’s electoral victory. Much of the Russian president’s address is likely to focus on his invasion of Ukraine, a topic that he made front and centre in his victory speech on Sunday night. Some Telegram channels have reported that university students have been bussed into Moscow for the event, which is being heavily policed, according to BBC News.
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Post by Newsman on Mar 18, 2024 13:53:54 GMT -5
(The Guardian) A concert and rally are now under way in Moscow’s Red Square to celebrate Putin’s election and the 10th anniversary of the annexation of Crimea. The band Radio Tapok is currently performing, BBC Russia’s Liza Fokht reports.
Vladimir Putin has just come on stage at the rally to celebrate his election and the 10th anniversary of the unilateral annexation of Crimea. The large crowd applauded his arrival and briefly chanted. Stay tuned for more of his remarks.
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Post by Webster on Mar 18, 2024 17:19:44 GMT -5
(The Guardian) Putin says 'Crimea has returned to the home harbor'In brief remarks, Putin spoke on the importance of Crimea on the 10th anniversary of Russia’s annexation of the region. “Ten years ago here, in the Red Square, on this very stage, I recalled that Crimea is often called an unsinkable aircraft carrier and it is appropriate to say that Crimea has returned to the home harbor,” Putin said. “But Crimea is not only strategically important territory, not only our history, our traditions, and Russia’s pride. Crimea, above all is people … they are our pride.” Putin says Crimea returned 'to our common family' in speech marking 10th anniversary of annexationPutin added: “Through decades, they carried faith in their fatherland. They never separated themselves from Russia and that’s what allowed Crimea to return to our common family.” Other presidential candidates also joined Putin on stage and gave remarks. Nikolai Kharitonov, who finished in second place with only 4% of the vote said: “Of Russia and Crimea, there is only one motherland. And I congratulate you on this 10th anniversary.” Third-place finisher Vladislav Davankov said: “Dear friends, I will always remember that feeling of pride for my country and my president, exactly 10 years ago and I congratulate you. I congratulate you on that event,” looking towards Putin. To conclude the remarks, Putin said: “All glory to Russia.” The Russian national anthem was then sung onstage by Putin, the other candidates, and featured performers.
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Post by Webster on Mar 18, 2024 17:22:48 GMT -5
(The Guardian) Putin says Ukraine region of Donbas and other occupied areas part of 'New Russia'Putin also declared the Donbas and other occupied areas as the “New Russia”, in his Red Square remarks, BBC reported. Putin added that a new rail link is being built through parts of occupied Ukraine, adding that those regions have “declared their desire to return to their native family”. “All this is happening thanks to you, citizens of Russia,” Putin added.
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