(USA TODAY) SEVASTOPOL, Ukraine -- The White House is imposing visa restrictions on Russians and Crimeans after Crimea's pro-Russia administration announced a March 16 referendum on whether Crimea should become part of Russia.
The White House said the restrictions will affect anyone who is "threatening the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine."
President Obama has signed an executive order authorizing sanctions against "individuals and entities responsible for activities undermining democratic processes or institutions in Ukraine."
Advertisement - story continues below
