Grab for Power in Crimea Raises Secession Threat - NYTimes.com
▻http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/28/world/europe/ukraine-tensions.html?nl=todaysheadlines&emc=edit_th_20140228&_r=0
SIMFEROPOL, Ukraine — With the Russian flag planted atop the regional Parliament, Crimea raised the specter of secession from Ukraine on Thursday, threatening renewed civil conflict and a showdown between Ukraine’s fledgling government and the Kremlin.
Across the region’s capital, Simferopol, a well-orchestrated power grab by pro-Russian forces played out: Armed militants took control of government buildings; crowds filled the streets chanting “Russia, Russia,” and legislators called for a vote to redefine relations with Ukraine. The region is currently autonomous, meaning it has greater local control over its affairs.