The lavish ceremony at the Kremlin, a turning point in recent post-Soviet history, came hours after shelling killed 25 people in Ukraine's southern region of Zaporizhzhia, one of the worst attacks against civilians in months.
The packed hall erupted to chants of "Russia! Russia" after the four leaders inked the deal, and Putin -- rarely seen making physical contact since the pandemic -- joined hands with his proxy leaders and was shown shouting along in unison on state TV. But pro-Kremlin regional chief Vladimir Rogov accused Ukrainian troops of carrying out a "terrorist act".
Together, all five regions including Crimea, make up around 20 percent of Ukraine, whose forces in recent weeks have been clawing back wins as part of a counter-offensive.
Good for Putin! GMA know the real story not propaganda. I hope Putin defeats the Elites!
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