Ukraine crisis: Crimea always been part of Russia, says Putin
President Vladimir Putin has told a special session of Russia's parliament that "in people's heart of hearts, Crimea has always been part of Russia".
Mr Putin also signed new treaties paving the way for Crimea to join the Russian Federation, but said he did not want to break up Ukraine further.
The EU and US have declared the action illegal and imposed sanctions.
Ukraine's military says an officer has been killed in an attack on a base in Crimea, the first such death since pro-Russia forces took control in February.
Daniel Sandford reports from Moscow.
18 Mar 2014
- From the section Europe