Russians in Crimea have long gone to Russia to work because of the vast wage differences.
The one thing I’ve read over and over again is Crimea wasn’t exactly treated well by the Ukranian Gov., no matter who was in office. So the Russians were more than happy to vote for Russian standards...
Gas 60% less in itself would be substantial savings to a family. And the military differences are astounding.
However, if the Ukrain’s can get their act together...years down the road, they MAY be in a better place themselves...but I tend to doubt it. All this money flowing from IMF, World Bank and the US etc. are LOANS. to Ukraines already bankrupt country. Unless business and industy go there few will do better as I see it ...even in the long run.
Most nations in that area under EU are not doing well at all after joining Nato etc....certainly not in the ways the people were led to believe would be.
As usual politicans and the Globalists talk big...follow through is another matter altogether.
Cheaper gas, better wages, better pensions, a flat tax on income...there's going to be a sharp contrast to the standard of living in Crimea opposed to Ukraine proper going forward. Not to mention the warmer weather and a more stable civil society.