Donetsk, Feb 21 – DAN. The DPR and LPR Heads have addressed Russian President Vladimir Putin asking him to recognize the Republics as independent.

"On behalf of our people we ask you to recognize the DPR as an independent, democratic, social state under the rule of law," the DPR Head Denis Pushilin said.

"I ask you to recognise the sovereignty and independence of the Lugansk People's Republic", the LPR Head Leonid Pasechnik said.

They both asked to consider the possibility of signing an agreement of friendship and cooperation between Russia and the LPR, including the cooperation in the sphere of defence.

Putin said after a long televised meeting of Russia's security council that he is going to take the decision on the Republics today. *ot