Residents of Domodedovo, a town in the Moscow region, have announced the establishment of a Russian Democratic Republic and asked the EU for official recognition.

      In their official statement addressed to the EU, the Russian Democratic Republic leaders accuse Russian authorities of ignoring the results of a referendum in 2007 when almost 100 percent of Domodedovo residents voted against the building of a toll motorway within city limits. Domodedovo residents believe that decision violated the principles of democratic society and made them guests in their own town.

      The Republic's action team plans to be integrated into the EU and recognized by other countries as a part of Russian Federation with special rights. The Republic has already presented its emblem - a one-headed eagle.

      Local human rights activists are sure the creation of the Democratic Republic is the only way to protect Domodedovo residents' interests from corruption and lawlessness of Russian authorities.