Pro-Russians claim victory in 'self-rule' referendums in eastern Ukraine's regions

Rebels in Ukraine held 'self-rule' referendums in the country's easternmost areas.

Pro-Russian separatists claimed nearly 90 percent voted in their favour in Donetsk region.

According to the BBC, Ukraine called the vote a 'criminal farce' organised by Russia.

The head of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic election commission Roman Lyagin said that 89 percent voted in favour of self-rule.

A Donetsk separatist leader, Denis Pushilin, said that once the results are announced, all Ukrainian military troops in the region would be considered 'occupying forces'.