Russia-backed Donetsk Republic may consider joining Russia

Russia-backed Donetsk People's Republic, eastern Ukraine, may consider joining Russia once the region is under its control, its news outlet reported. Denis Pushilin, a separatist leader, said this on Tuesday.

Pushilin was quoted as saying by Donetsk News Agency: "As regards joining the Russian Federation as for the wish or aspiration, as for their desire and have been clearly traced back since 2014 - they desire to be there."

"But now, the main task is reaching the constitutional boundaries of the republic. He said, "Then we will decide that."

These comments were made two days after Luhansk, the leader of another Russian-backed rebel region in eastern Ukraine, suggested that it might hold a referendum on Russia joining.

Kyiv stated that any such vote would not have legal basis and would prompt a stronger international response.

Three days prior to ordering the February 24 invasion of Ukraine President Vladimir Putin recognized the territories of Luhansk, Donetsk, and other breakaway regions as independent states. However, the rest of the world still considers them part Ukraine.

Ukraine claims it is fighting for its existence in opposition to Russia's imperial-style land grab. It has repeatedly stated that it will not accept Russia's annexation its territory. This is the most difficult part of peace negotiations with Moscow.