Although the Russian takeover of Crimea has been largely condemned by the international community, a recently released Levada Center survey shows President Vladimir Putin's approval rating has hit a term high, increasing 11% in the last five months. The President 's approval also spiked when Russia defeated Georgia in the 2008 South Ossetia conflict, at one point reaching 88%.

I guess the Russians miss their old empire. And, of course, Crimea was a part of Russia since, when, Catherine the Great in the 1700's? An analogy might be: The US "loses" the cold war, and Texas breaks off, and takes Louisiana with it. 30 years later, the US re-occupies New Orleans, much to the people's joy.
It's hard to slam the Russians. From our perspective, it seems arrogant and greedy, form theirs, it's getting back what was lost.

Intriguing history lesson, all I seem to hear from news outlets is how the international community condemns Putin's takeover or how Russia's actions will hurt world relations. I don't seem to be finding articles discussing the history of Russia/Crimea/Ukraine. Thanks for the insight!