Russia claims independence of Ukraine while asserting control over annexed regions

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that Russia recognizes the independence of Ukraine, but claimed that several regions are already under Russian control and are included in the Constitution. The regions mentioned include Crimea, Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson.

These territories were annexed by Russia in 2014 and 2022 through referendums that have been deemed illegal and unrecognized by Ukraine and nearly all United Nations member states. Despite Russia"s claims, it does not fully control these areas, as significant portions remain held by Ukrainian forces.

For more on related coverage, see recent developments regarding the ongoing conflict.