Damascus: Syria recognizes the pro-Russian rebels in eastern Ukraine, Donetsk and Luhansk, as independent republics. Russia had recognized the independence of both regions before the start of the occupation of Ukraine.
Russia’s move was condemned by Ukraine and the West. This is the first time that a country other than Russia has recognized the independence of Donetsk and Luhansk. Both regions are located in the strategic Donbass region of Ukraine.
At the same time, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Selensky announced that the move would sever all diplomatic ties with Russia’s ally Syria.
