The Annexation of Crimea refers to the process in 2014 when the Russian Federation took control of the Crimean Peninsula, which was previously part of Ukraine. This action followed a controversial referendum in which a majority of Crimean voters reportedly chose to join Russia, although the legitimacy of the vote was widely disputed by the international community. The annexation led to significant geopolitical tensions, with many countries, including members of the European Union and the United States, imposing sanctions on Russia. The situation has resulted in ongoing conflicts and discussions regarding territorial integrity and national sovereignty in the region.