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Nine Years Since Crimea Re-United With Russia, Saved Its People From Kiev Regime

On March 16, 2014, a nationwide referendum was held in Crimea and Sevastopol. More than 95% of the voters were in favor of reunification with Russia, rejoining the homeland after decades of severance.
Sputnik
For maximum inclusiveness, the ballots were printed in three languages - Russian, Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar. The referendum was closely watched by roughly 50 observers from 21 countries.
But what exactly triggered the life-defining vote in Crimea?
In February 2014, a coup d'etat took place in Ukraine which was instigated by western governments amid violent mass riots known as the "Euromaidan".
From the very first days, the new Kiev junta began to opress citizens, that identified themselves as Russians. Authorities of Crimea and citizens of the peninsula could not accept the lawless radical government that claimed power in Kiev. As such, the Crimean people asked Russia for protection and scheduled a referendum.
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People of Crimea were afraid for their lives since neo-Nazi paramilitaries treatened them.

In this photo, you can see residents of Simferopol at the concert "Crimea-Spring" in the city center, waiting for the announcement of the results of the referendum.

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People were praying to re-unite with Russia.

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Residents of Simferopol openly expressed their desire to become part of Russia.

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Voting in Sevastopol.

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Voting in Simferopol. The referendum was attended by citizens off all ages.

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Some people could not hide their tears.

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The counting of votes took some time (poll station in Simferopol).

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People were eagerly waiting for the results of referendum.

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Crimea's then-prime minister attended the "Crimea-Spring" concert and addressed the people of the peninsula.

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Simferopol residents were waving Russian flags.

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They were hoping for the best.

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When it became evident that a majority of Crimeans voted in favor of reunification with Russia, festivities began. The skies of the penisula were set ablaze with fireworks.

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March 18 was declared as the day of the reunification of Crimea with Russia.

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March 18 is an official holiday in the peninsula, celebrated widely since for Crimeans, this day became pivotal in history. March 18 means not only safety, but also the restoration of justice from a historical standpoint since they always considered themselves as integral part of Russia.

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