Putin wants a referendum in the Crimea and perhaps other Russian speaking areas of the Ukraine. I think it is a wonderful concession to democratic values. Bravo Putin.
While we're in such a liberal mood why not hold simultaneous referendums in the Russian Republics of Chechnya and Ingushetia?
Oh, Right. Self determination in Russia only works if you're determined to be Russian. Otherwise it's the old jack boot and rifle butt treatment.