The issue of annexing Crimea to the territory of Russia is not being considered. The residents of Crimea have the right to determine their fate in conditions of freedom, Russian president Vladimir Putin said.

“The right of nations to self-determination is in force. We will do nothing to provoke anyone and warm up certain sentiments,” he said during a media conference on Tuesday.

As to possible intervention in Ukraine, Putin noted there is no such necessity yet.

“Our recent maneuvers have nothing to do with Ukraine,” he said, adding that Russia has direct address of Viktor Yanukovich.

“We will not be engaged in war with Ukrainian people. If we decide to bring troops, it will be done only to protect the citizens”.