Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared the independence of the Ukrainian regions of Zaporizhia and Kherson as Russia prepares to formally proclaim the annexation of Ukrainian territory in a major escalation of its seven-month invasion.
The two regions are set to be incorporated into Russia along with the self-proclaimed republics of Donetsk and Luhansk at a lavish ceremony in the Kremlin on Friday after hastily-organized referendums in the Russian-occupied regions, which claimed majorities of up to 99 percent in favor of joining Russia.
Putin recognized the independence of Donetsk and Luhansk in February.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters in New York City that Russia’s annexation would violate the United Nations Charter and had no legal value.