Also calling separatists 'pro-russian' is a vast exaggeratoin, mostly they are pro-autonomy. And they are minority. Concerned, but still minority. Most russian ukrainians does not want to be part of Russia and vice versa. I am tired of both sides using strong words, which only says about both sides went strongly on propaganda. But for christ sake, where is western neutral media? Why to get neutral(or not so much) opinion I need to open up something like aljazeera?
Judging by what this Cossack volunteer from Krasnodar (who was also in Crimea) says he's hoping for the annexation of the Donbass. Reclaim Russian territory, no less. Autonomy doesn't seem to be on his mind.
Let me put it bluntly.
Russia doesnt want to annex any parts of Ukraine. It's incredible economic burden, and, most importanly - against public opinion. Of both countries. And Putin is not going to risk that.
And don't believe Knit Tie, actually Putin was elected by majority. You can see it, if you live here. Majority was pro-Putin.
Also notice that majority of Ukraine is against annexation. "Donetsk Republic" sporting it's own flag, for that matters.
Most russians perceive current Ukraine goverment as illegal and perceive it's as a coup being orchestrated by US. That just majority opinion, not a fact. Also early in this thread was a recent poll results on various matters from ukrainians. And I believe these numbers are pretty correct. Notice no majority to secede to Russia, actually we talking single digits.
If you happened to know russian I would provide you with dozens of links on russian
main TV-channels talk shows where both sides(including ukrainians,
no maidan) concur on the matter that annexation is not going to happen, ever. Following your agenda that all russian media is rigged, it's a projection to future.
Further annexation is not going to happen
