NZ shares fall as Russia recognises separatist regions

NZ shares fall as Russia recognises separatist regions
Putin has recognised two Ukrainian regions that are under the control of pro-Russian rebels as independent states. (Image: Depositphotos)
Dan Brunskill
New Zealand shares fell on Tuesday as Russia recognised two Ukrainian regions as independent states, which has been interpreted as creating an excuse for an invasion.The S&P/NZX 50 Index fell 41.7 points, or 0.3%, to 12,114.63. Turnover was $212 million.In a televised speech, Russian President Vladimir Putin recognised two Ukrainian separatist regions – Donetsk and Luhansk – as sovereign states and ordered troops into the territory as "peacekeepers".NZ’s foreign minister said she was concerned this was a "ca...