Separatist leaders in Donetsk and Luhansk to hold votes to join Russia

Ukrainian servicemen drive atop a self-propelled artillery vehicle in the recently retaken area of Dolyna, Donetsk region, Ukraine, Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2022. (AP Photo/Evgeniy Maloletka)

The separatist leaders of the Russian-controlled areas of Luhansk and Donetsk in Ukraine have said they are planning to hold votes for the territories to become part of Russia.

The announcements of referendums starting on Friday came after a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin said they were needed.