Russian lawmakers on Tuesday called on President Vladimir Putin to recognize the two breakaway eastern Ukrainian regions of Luhansk and Donetsk as “people’s republics.” If the resolution is approved by Putin, it would essentially give diplomatic recognition to the regions where Russian-backed separatists have been fighting with Ukrainian government forces since 2014. Such a move would dramatically escalate tensions at a time when the world is on edge over fears Russia could invade its neighbour. The State Duma, Russia’s lower house, overwhelming voted on Tuesday to send the document to the pre…