Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 sparked international outrage as Putin sought to control the region and expand Russia’s sphere of influence. The disputed territory then voted overwhelmingly to join Moscow in a referendum, but the US and its allies contested the vote. Since then, Putin has flexed his military might in the crucial region on numerous occasions – but the latest military drill represents one of the largest in the area in recent times.
Russia's War Against Ukraine
Express.co.uk: Putin sends thousands of troops to Crimea in show of strength to NATO
A Russian national flag (L) and partly seen flag of Russian airborne forces (R) fly above a Ukrainian military base in Perevalne, near the Crimean capital Simferopol, on March 27, 2014.