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PUTIN LIVE: 'Everything Is Related To Russian History'

Michael KelleyMar 18, 2014, 16:36 IST

Russian President Vladimir Putin is addressing both houses of the Kremlin's legislature today to discuss the secession of Crimea from Ukraine and its potential integration in Russia.

He received a long round of applause. A few hours ago he signed a decree that recognized Crimea as an independent state.

Putin says that Crimea is intertwined with Russia.

"Everything is related to Russian history."

"[Crimea] ... is a fortress and where the Russian Black Sea Fleet is in port."

"Crimea is a unique melting pot of traditions nad culture and that's why it looks ... like Russia."

Putin spoke about the "rehabilitation of ethnic Tartars," a minority Muslim that makes up about 12% Crimea today after being persecuted for