DHAKA: Pro-Russian separatists in Ukraine's two eastern regions are to hold "self-rule" referendums - a move condemned by Kiev and the West.

Self-proclaimed leaders in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions are going ahead with the vote despite Russian President Vladimir Putin's call to postpone it.

Ukraine says the vote could result in the "self-destruction" of the regions.

Pro-Russian gunmen occupying offices in a number of towns have been involved in heavy clashes with Ukrainian troops.

Reports say there was a fierce fighting overnight on the outskirts of the rebel-held city of Sloviansk, which remains sealed by government troops conducting what Ukraine describes as an "anti-terror" operation.

In the port of Mariupol, also in the Donetsk region, at least seven people were killed and 39 injured in clashes between the two sides on Friday, according to official figures.

Source: BBC

BDST: 1007 HRS, MAY 11, 2014