Why would any non-suicidal resident of the Crimea vote to remain in the Ukraine now that Vladimir Putin has made it clear he intends to invade the Ukraine and smash any opposition to a Russian takeover?
One way or another, the Crimeans will be under Russian rule. Their only choice is if they want to be dead or alive when the Russian flag is raised over Kiev. Choosing life means choosing to appease the Russian bear today with a Yes vote.
If life in the new, expanded Russia does not meet with the Crimeans’ approval, they can mount an organized opposition movement — not the kind of ad hoc radical uprising by a crazed mob of arsonists that took place in Kiev and wound up igniting Vladimir Putin’s wrath, which is now leading NOT to freedom and democracy but to the crushing of the entire Ukraine.
I believe the real question will be if Russia has its sights on Eastern Ukraine as well.
Life might be better under Putin—More jobs—more support for army-Navy. There may be a bright spot for the area—I believe there are good reasons to vote for Russian Union.