Donbas declared its independence from Ukraine 8 years ago…did East Los Angeles or any other hispanic area of USA declare its independence?
Ever hear of CHAZ?
And I'm sure that there are many other neighborhoods who would declare their independence in a NY second, if they thought that it would gain them any notoriety.
It would, of course, be foolish of them to do so - but don't deny that they'd do it!
Regards,