Getting back to the topic...
At the University we (also) have students from Moldova. And some have relatives from Ukraine. So simple citizens.
They told me that, like LabMouse said, the gross majority in Ukraine was willingly wanted to go back to mother Russia. Because that's how they feel. And they really don't understand why the government (Ukraine) is acting like that.
So, indeed, you should look also at the other side of the coin and, more of that, what people wants.
Of course, if we will let every person to do what he/she wants will be anarchy.
And of course, some would say, if you want with Russia, go to Russia.
But it's not so simple. And I am afraid that the coin has not two sides, but hundreds...
All we can do is hope that the people up there at the top to not be conducted by personal feelings like pride/arrogance/revenge and have cool heads and solve the problems in a peaceful manner.
Of course, not all will be satisfied, but that's life.
Hell, if all on this Earth will get together and fraternize and understand with each other, a much better world will be.

As for the how the poll is formulated.... Hm.... victory for one, victory for another, stale mate....
Wake up! We are talking about people lives and destinies here!!! It's not a game played from a comfy chair at home! Although I am afraid that many things are done like that...
If one will take a "trip" to the streets of east Ukraine now, that will change the way one looks at things...

The poll was fine for purpose it was intended. Just an overall view and light debate without getting into the heavy stuff.  LL.B (Hons) - University of Derby
LOT (Lord of Time) - University of Gallifrey

I think the UK and the rest of Europe should tread very carefully regarding relationship with Russia.
Should China ever become belligerent; there's nothing at the moment to suggest it will; I'd want Russia on my side. Another member of the failed FL2 clutch/DMF club, twice.

I'd rather they had a go at each other and left us out of it. my PC is slightly to the right of Genghis
2012 HSE SD4 In Orkney Grey now gone, best car ever.

richardk wrote:

With fusion technology just around the corner according to the paper today, time to ditch shares in fossil fuel me thinks

alex_pescaru wrote:

Getting back to the topic...
At the University we (also) have students from Moldova. And some have relatives from Ukraine. So simple citizens.
They told me that, like LabMouse said, the gross majority in Ukraine was willingly wanted to go back to mother Russia. Because that's how they feel. And they really don't understand why the government (Ukraine) is acting like that.
...

Hello, I live in Ukraine.

Regarding the above "the gross majority in Ukraine was willingly wanted to go back to mother Russia", sorry, but that is not true.

Although the topic is about Crimea I would assume you mean gross majority in Crimea wanted to go back… I would say without word "majority". No doubts there are people wanted to be back to Russia.
They are mostly concentrated in Sevastopol city (location of Russian and ex-Ukraine Navi bases) which depends purely on Navi base support. Most of those people are either military (Russian and ex-Ukraine) or USSR-loving pensioners who thought that with Russia's control over that territory they would to live better (= having a greater pension).

Outside of Sevastopol region (which is the largest region and city in Crimea), especially on steppe territories, not bordering with coast tendency to "join Russia" turns backward.

Unfortunately no polls exist to give you exact! numbers, "so called referendum" played by Russia before annexation has nothing to do with real polling. When they do prepare a referendum BlackOps or special forces must take over the Crimea parliament first ?

Crimea now became a closed Russian military base island, being at 85% subsidized! (it always was, but not that many), without int. investments, without recognition, you even would not have a chance to officially buy a LandRover there. Building a better future, yeah.

With respect,