Removing Protesters’ Barricades in Kiev

Street protests have been taking place in Kiev and other Ukrainian cities since the government announced on November 21 that it would postpone signing free trade and association agreements with the EU in favor of strengthening ties with Moscow.
Thousands of protesters in Kiev barricaded a number of important state buildings and set up a tent camp in the central Independence Square in rallies to demand snap elections and the resignation of President Viktor Yanukovych.

As the protesters were repelled toward Independence Square, some troublemakers deployed tear gas against security forces.

According to various sources, between four and 10 protesters, as well as two police officers, have been injured.

After the mop-up, the protesters relocated to Independence Square, where the situation remained calm last night.

Barricades erected by protesters have been removed from all central Kiev streets, except Independence Square where the protesters remain camped out.

Two law enforcement officers were hurt during their sweeps. No protesters requested medical assistance and no arrests were made.

“On the whole, everything took place calmly, people obeyed orders and behaved calmly, except some aggressive persons who tried to stage provocations,” said police spokeswoman Olga Bilyk.

A barricade being removed on the central Luteranskaya Street in Kiev.