LETTER: Tony Leon is obsessed with Russia
The former DA leader has his facts wrong about the Crimean situation
Hardly any article by Tony Leon (irrespective of the theme) goes without negative connotations or biting assertions on Russia. His latest column was no exception, presenting baseless allegations of Russia’s “aggressive behaviour”, “invading neighbouring Crimea” and so on, and even implying that Russia has some influence over SA’s domestic politics (“More Votes for Opposition Could Shift SA from its Mix of Toxic Politics and Bad Economics,” April 23). Let us look at the facts:
Crimea became independent of Ukraine and rejoined Russia on March 18 2014 by will of the Crimeans, expressed freely, peacefully, democratically and in accordance with international law at a referendum on March 16 2014 (over 96% of the votes). The reason behind it was a protest against a coup in Kiev and threats from Ukrainian nationalists and neo-Nazis. Those who do not believe it can visit Crimea and ask the Crimeans themselves. Russian troops were stationed in Crimea in accordance with the Russian-Ukrai...
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