Kharkiv protesters declare independence from Kiev
People in the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv have declared independence from Kiev following a same move by pro-Russians in Donetsk. ● Protesters announced on Monday the formation of the Independent People’s Republic of Kharkiv outside the regional administration building. They also held their own election of what they call national lawmakers. Moreover, the demonstrators clashed with pro-Ukraine groups in front of the building. Police tried to separate the two groups as they were throwing sticks and stones at each other. Some 50 percent of the region's inhabitants are ethnic Russians that believe Ukraine's acting authorities are nationalists who will repress Russians. Earlier in the day, people in the eastern city of Donetsk declared their independence and formation of the People’s Republic of Donetsk. They demanded a referendum on joining Russia to be held by May 11.
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