Anyone listening to Russian news broadcasts would be forgiven for thinking that Crimea is as good as annexed. Russian print and television media, almost all of which are controlled by the state, are painting a picture of excitement in the region leading up to the referendum Sunday that will determine whether Crimea will become a part of Russia or remain part of Ukraine. CNBC, which monitored Russian-language news this week, found that virtually all references to Crimea already refer to it as an "autonomous region," and news outlets frequently depicted its citizens rejoicing at the prospect of being annexed by Russia. ... (full story)