Pro-Russian separatists in southeastern regions are demanding referendum on a split with Ukraine the same kind of vote that took place last month in Crimea after Russian troops took control there. Scott Stearns, VOA News at the State Department.

U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel is warning the U.S. will defend its Asian allies in the event of any conflict with China following talks in Beijing Tuesday with his Chinese counterpart Chang Wanquan. Secretary Hagel said Washington is fully committed to treaties obliging it to protect its long-time allies Japan and the Philippines. He also renewed U.S. criticism of the air defense identification zone set up by China last year covering islands also claimed by Tokyo. “Every nation has a right to establish air defense zones, but not a right to do unilaterally with no collaboration, no consultation. That adds to tensions, misunderstandings and could eventually add to and eventually get to a dangerous conflict.” The territorial disputes and corresponding tensions would remain focus for Secretary Hagel’s three-day visit to China.