KIEV, March 13 - Fewer differences may divide Ukrainians in the Russian-speaking east from compatriots in the west than generally thought, according to an opinion poll issued on Friday showing both regions backing negotiations to resolve differences over Crimea, Reuters reported.

The survey, conducted by the GfK market research company for the Avaaz international civic network after Russian forces took control of Crimea, also showed a majority in the two areas favoring closer ties with both Russia and the European Union.

Ukraine's new authorities, in power since the removal of Moscow-backed president Viktor Yanukovych last month, say they will pursue plans to clinch an association agreement with the European Union. It was Yanukovych’s decision to abandon such an accord that triggered three months of mass protests.