--- The Luhans'k Region of Ukraine, the easternmost Russian-speaking region, has reportedly declared itself autonomous and requested recognition from the Russian Federation . Several more regions, including Donetsk , have ruled to put autonomy on popular referendum.
--- Supporters of opposition leader Viktor Yushchenko blockaded official buildings in Kiev Friday, in a direct challenge to the Moscow -backed government's control of the country. (Reuters)
--- Russian President Vladimir Putin said after a summit meeting with the European Union that the results of the Ukrainian presidential elections are absolutely clear. (AFP)
Fatah officially picks former Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas , already PLO chairman, as its candidate for January's presidential elections. (BBC)(Reuters)