Tensions Ratchet Up as Crimea's Referendum Approaches

SIMFEROPOL, CRIMEA — Reminders of Crimea's Sunday referendum vote are everywhere around the peninsula's capital city, Simferopol. But most of the signs and banners reminding Crimeans to vote also advise the peninsula's residents to cast their ballots in favor of unification with Russia. The other option, to gain greater autonomy within Ukraine, is barely discussed

Ukraine's new government in Kiev has denounced the referendum as illegitimate and both the United States and the European Union have backed up Kiev's position on this Sunday's vote. However, Crimea's pro-Russian legislative body has decided to go ahead with the vote with backing from the Kremlin Read more...