Protesters demand referendum in eastern Ukrainian cities

A pro-Russian movement is gripping eastern Ukraine.

Protesters in Kharkiv seized government buildings and scuffled with police overnight.

They're hoping to follow Crimea and hold a referendum on joining Russia.

Government buildings in Donetsk are also under control of protesters.

With the Russian flag proudly on display, the protesters set up barricades of tires and barbed wire.

Inside, amateur video appears to show an unidentified man calling Russian President Vladimir Putin their only hope.

He later says they're ready to fight and die for their ideals.

Reuters cannot independently verify the video, which was posted on a social media website.

Kiev's new government calls the protests evidence of another operation by Russia.