17:15
18.2.2014
17:26
18.2.2014
17:44
18.2.2014
Statement by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton:
"I am deeply worried about the grave new escalation in Kiev and the reported victims. I condemn all use of violence, including against public or party buildings."
"I am deeply worried about the grave new escalation in Kiev and the reported victims. I condemn all use of violence, including against public or party buildings."
17:49
18.2.2014
18:04
18.2.2014
The Interior Ministry deadline has passed. Independence Square is surrounded by riot police as opposition members deliver speeches. No one knows what happens next.
18:07
18.2.2014
Opposition MP Lesya Orobets:
This day was well planned and prepared least a week in advance. Currently Kiev subway is stopped and all entrances are tightly locked. In Kiev, at least in some places (eg KPI hostel) has the internet off. In the capital, within a few hours, was effectively introduced a state of emergency, and one shall not tell me that all this was done without the plan and preparation. Anyone understands that the operation that captures the whole 4,000,000-city needs preparing for a few days at least, probably 2-3 weeks.
This day was well planned and prepared least a week in advance. Currently Kiev subway is stopped and all entrances are tightly locked. In Kiev, at least in some places (eg KPI hostel) has the internet off. In the capital, within a few hours, was effectively introduced a state of emergency, and one shall not tell me that all this was done without the plan and preparation. Anyone understands that the operation that captures the whole 4,000,000-city needs preparing for a few days at least, probably 2-3 weeks.
18:26
18.2.2014
As reported earlier, Kyiv authorities have completely shut down the city's underground Metro system tonight. This has made for angry and confused commuters.
18:34
18.2.2014
Our Belarusian Service reports that in Independence Square there is mass production of Molotov cocktails. Since violent clashes led to large scale protests in late-November, the square has been a largely peaceful gathering space. Many expect that to change in the coming hours.
19:03
18.2.2014
Disturbing video, via our Ukrainian Service, of the two bodies found near Independence Square today.
At least five people apparently associated with demonstrations have been killed and the Interior Ministry says two police officers have died.
At least five people apparently associated with demonstrations have been killed and the Interior Ministry says two police officers have died.
19:26
18.2.2014
Back at square one. In a deal with the government, protesters had vacated the city administration building over the weekend in exchange for amnesty for arrested protesters.