Donetsk People’s Republic residents celebrate the decision of Russian President Vladimir Putin to recognize both Donbass Republics as independent states, launching fireworks in the centre of Donetsk.

Dozens of Donetsk residents have gathered at the city’s central square, bringing Russian flags, DAN correspondent says.

Many people take to the streets to congratulate each other, despite the late hour.
Some of them are crying, releasing the tension after Putin’s long televised speech preceding the recognition.

The sound of shelling seized.

Lugansk residents say that the city and the contact line are silent.

Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin officially recognised the Donetsk People’s Republic and Lugansk Peoples’ Republic as independent states and called on the Federal Assembly to support the move.

The DPR and LPR Heads have addressed Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday, February 21, asking him to recognise the Republics as independent.

They both asked to consider the possibility of signing an agreement of friendship and cooperation between Russia and the LPR, including the cooperation in the sphere of defence.

“On behalf of our people we ask you to recognize the DPR as an independent, democratic, social state under the rule of law,” the DPR Head Denis Pushilin said.

“I ask you to recognise the sovereignty and independence of the Lugansk People’s Republic”, the LPR Head Leonid Pasechnik said.

Putin and the Heads of the Republics signed the agreement of friendship immediately after Putin announced the recognition of their states.