PUTIN LIVE: 'Everything Is Related To Russian History'

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