I would have no problem with the East working out some form of federation with local autonomy IF Russia was not involved in fomenting strife and manipulating the situation. That means stop the propaganda war, remove the LGM and other infiltrators and saboteurs . This situation is about as “spontaneous” as a May Day parade.
I believe neither Russia nor the EU/US considered the “other” power struggles that would ensue when they both played the Nation and the Peoples.
We both recognize the propaganda is coming from all sides....that was apparent early on....same with various militias being used by all sides...then you have the Oligarchs playing their cards, and not just the ones in Ukraine...but outside as well. Some with vengeance toward Putin..others who aren't about ready to let go of their Turf.
Today the Separatists were fighting 'with' the Ukraine Army against some of the foreign infiltrators....neither wants Somalia's nor Muslim fighters in the country....so square that one with the insanity of war there. ....They are switching sides and/or paring with each other as the situations present themselves, and this depending on the leadership of each group.
Ukraine Gov had been determining if or not to let the East do their own thing awhile back....but those interested in the resources and industrial profits came into play and said no. Divisions then ensued further....and sides taken politically....this before the election. Porsh (US) wasn't about to let the East go...the US wants control of the Industrial area..and it's all about the profits and the companies and who is going to have them when this is all over. Remember they have tried to "Nationalize" some of the Industrial companies already...because that is going to be what happens.
Already the oil and gas have been distributed away from Ukraines control to US companies....the EU has control of the crop land via trade agreements....now the battle is for the Eastern Industrial and Tech companies......which BTW Russia has long standing agreements and partnerships with Ukraine on.....Russia is protecting that interest now...like it or not Russia knows this is all about gleening Ukraine of it's resources and keeping it in debt for so long it will never have control of them. That is how the IMF and EU work when it goes after a nation....they divide the spoils.
On another note....destroying property and Industry in the East also means great opportunity for 'outside companies' to come in to build new infastructure, Cha-ching, these large corporations ,who of course are eager to "help" restore the ravaged area, will make some good bucks via the Imf funneling funds to them.
Who do you think is making money of the 7000 protective gears now arriving for the Ukraine Army..and helmets ta boot...who do you think is making money sending Ambulances and Industrial equipment, and a host of other "helps" that will be flooding Ukraine when this is over...Ukraine can't pay for it...but the IMF and it's branches will and "CHARGE Ukraine forever for the priviledge of their help.....not to mention strong arm Ukraine when they are not co-operating.
The East knew this was coming and tried to jump ahead of it....Russia likely aiding them to protect it's own interests.