Russia said on Feb. 20 President Vladimir Putin’s decision to recognise passports issued by separatist rebels in eastern Ukraine complied with international law, after the move drew criticism from France, Germany and the European Union.
Russia's War Against Ukraine
Reuters: Russia says Ukraine passport order complies with international law
A Russian flag flies near Russia-backed separatists sitting atop a 2S1 Gvozdika (122-mm self-propelled howitzer) as a convoy moves from the frontline near the eastern Ukrainian city of Starobeshevo in Donetsk region, on Feb. 25, 2015.