World War II Veterans Clash In Kyiv
October 15, 2005
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15 October 2005 -- Tempers flared and minor clashes broke out in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv today as World War II veterans and their supporters held competing rallies.
Veterans of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army, who say they fought both Nazi forces and Soviet soldiers in a bid to create an independent Ukraine, rallied to demand recognition and benefits.
They clashed with veterans of the Soviet Red Army, who accused them of treachery and Nazi collaboration.
Especially in western Ukraine, nationalists say it is time to honor the partisan veterans as heroes. Many Soviet veterans strongly disagree.
No major injuries or arrests were reported at today's rally.
(AP)