Russian-backed officials in Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia are holding self-styled referendums on joining Russia.
The four regions involved are either partially or completely under Russian occupation.
The G7 group of wealthiest nations have condemned what it says are sham votes, that are taking place over five days.
Meanwhile Russia is implementing plans to call up reservists to fight in Ukraine after suffering setbacks there.
Queues have sprung up along Russia's borders as men attempt to leave the country to avoid a military call-up.
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