annexationthe

Annexation refers to the act of one state unilaterally incorporating territory into its own. This can be done through various means, including conquest, purchase, or agreement. The legal status of annexation is a complex and often contentious issue in international law. While some annexations have been recognized by the international community, many others are considered illegitimate and a violation of territorial integrity. The United Nations Charter, for instance, prohibits the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, which is often invoked in discussions about illegal annexations. Historical examples of annexation include the Roman Empire's expansion, the United States' acquisition of Texas, and more recent instances in the 20th and 21st centuries. The consequences of annexation can be far-reaching, impacting the populations of the annexed territories, the relationship between the annexing state and other nations, and regional and global stability. International recognition, or lack thereof, plays a significant role in the long-term implications of any annexation.