Crimean Tatars oppose joining with Russia, as they fear a repeat of the events of 1944 when Soviet dictator Josef Stalin ethnically cleansed them from their homeland.

Muslims in Crimea will gather for congregational supplications after Friday prayers for the crisis in their homeland to be solved peacefully.

Crimean Tatar Muslims have been caught in the middle of the crossfire between Ukraine and Russia, as the newly elected Crimean parliament prepares to vote on becoming a part of Russia in 9 days time.

The referendum will likely result in approval to join Russia, as the vast majority of people in Crimea are ethnic Russians.

However, Crimean Tatars oppose joining with Russia, as they fear a repeat of the events of 1944 when Soviet dictator Josef Stalin ethnically cleansed them from their homeland.

A statement from the Crimean Mufti's Office invited the people to pray for the prevalence of justice, a birght future and to show unity and discipline in tough times.

World Bulletin