Under the monument to Soviet state founder Vladimir Lenin, hundreds of pro-Russian protesters gather in Kharkiv.<br/> <br />Some carry signs demanding an end to "fascism".<br/> <br />Others are simply calling for a referendum.<br/> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) KHARKIV RESIDENT, TATIANA, SAYING:<br/> <br />"People of the southeast demand a referendum. It is the highest form of democracy and we want every voice of every citizen of Ukraine to be heard."<br/> <br />Unlike in other eastern Ukrainian cities, Kharkiv's rally passes without complications.<br/> <br />In Slaviansk, armed separatists have seized government buildings.<br/> <br />The move provoked new warnings from the U.S. who compared the situation to Crimea.<br/> <br />The White House is now calling on Russia to cease efforts to destabilize Ukraine.<br/> <br />Back in Kharkiv, about 5,000 pro-Ukrainian protesters gather to call for unity.<br/> <br />Before marching through the city they carry Ukrainian flags and chant "one united Ukraine."<br/> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (Ukrainian) KHARKIV R
