“Russian President Vladimir Putin has revealed he planned the annexation of Crimea four days before unidentified gunmen appeared in the region. Crimea was formally absorbed on 18 March, to international condemnation. Russia denied instigating the revolt against Ukraine, but in a forthcoming film, Mr Putin says he ordered work on ‘returning Crimea to Russia’ at an all-night meeting in February.”
Source: BBC News – Putin reveals Russia secret Crimea takeover in documentary