March 17 2014 News Instant

President Barack Obama announced new sanctions targeting Russian and Ukrainian officials responsible for the "illegal referendum," stating the U.S. would not recognize the secession.

Reports confirmed that 16 people died in a stampede during a massive government job recruitment drive involving roughly 500,000 applicants. March 17 2014 News

U.S. Navy SEALs recaptured the Morning Glory , a tanker filled with Libyan oil that had been hijacked by rebels earlier in the month. Human Interest & Tragedy supported by Hezbollah

Government forces, supported by Hezbollah, seized the strategic rebel-held town of Yabrud near the Lebanese border. reporting a 96% majority in favor.

Following a Sunday vote, Crimea's parliament formally declared independence from Ukraine to join Russia, reporting a 96% majority in favor.