VOICED : Tension en este de Ucrania en vispera de referendo

Tensions are high in Eastern Ukraine as a referendum on independence approaches, despite Russian President Vladimir Putin's request to delay it. Some residents of Donetsk and Lugansk prefer to remain under Ukrainian administration. France and Germany have condemned the referendum as illegal and are urging for the presidential elections on May 25 to proceed. They have also threatened new sanctions against Moscow. Clashes in Mariupol between pro-Russian insurgents and Ukrainian forces resulted in 20 separatist deaths. Western countries fear a repeat of Crimea's annexation by Russia following a similar referendum.

What is the main reason for the planned referendum in Donetsk and Lugansk?

• To establish a new government within Ukraine

• To merge with Poland

• To join the European Union

• To become independent from Ukraine

Which countries have declared the referendum illegal and urged for presidential elections?

• United States and Canada

• Italy and Spain

• France and Germany

• China and Japan

What action did Angela Merkel and François Hollande threaten against Moscow?

• Travel bans

• Economic sanctions

• Diplomatic isolation

• Military intervention

Where did the clashes between pro-Russian insurgents and Ukrainian forces occur?

• Kyiv

• Lviv

• Odessa

• Mariupol

What is the concern of Kiev and Western countries regarding the referendum?

• It will lead to economic instability

• It will result in a new government

• It will mirror the situation in Crimea

• It will cause environmental issues