Tensions escalated Tuesday when the Crimean port city Sevastopol appointed Alexey Chaly, a Russian citizen, as its mayor.
In a statement Tuesday, Chaly said they will take control of the city's civil defense teams, maintain security and guarantee that state institutions function properly.
An anti-terrorism center will be established to coordinate the civil defense units, said Chaly.
Russia's Black Sea Fleet is based at Sevastopol. Moscow has sent a delegation to the city, while some Russian officials have demanded that the parliament grant Russian citizenship to the residents of the Crimea.
Crowds gathered outside the city' central square to greet Chaly, chanting pro-Russia slogans and waving Russian flags.
The protesters yelled, “Fascism will not be permitted in Ukraine. We will decide the fate of our cities.”
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