Pro-Russian separatists to consider Putin's call to postpone referendum

Pro-Russian activists in eastern Ukraine will reportedly consider Russian President Vladimir Putin's proposal to delay referendums on autonomy.

According to the BBC, separatist leaders in Donetsk and Luhansk say they will put the matter before "people's councils".

Putin called for the delay saying that postponing the vote will give this dialogue the "conditions it needs to have a chance".

Putin said that the May 25 presidential vote that Kiev planned on holding would not solve anything unless the Ukrainian people understood how their rights will be guaranteed once the election has taken place.

Denis Pushilin, a pro-Russian leader in the eastern city of Donetsk said that Putin's stance is respected, adding that he is a balanced politician and therefore his proposal will be submitted to the people's council.

While Putin's call to delay the referendum has been dismissed by Ukraine's acting prime minister, the US is reportedly concerned that Putin will landlock Ukraine.

The Russian president's remarks came days after his spokesman said that holding such an election would be absurd.

Meanwhile, indicating a shift in the Russian policy, Putin also said this month's presidential elections in Ukraine were a move "in the right direction," the report added.