Ukraine protests: 25 dead and hundreds injured in night of violence

At least 25 people have been killed and hundreds injured in Ukraine following a day of street battles and overnight clashes.At least 25 people have been killed in Kiev, Ukraine

The violence was the deadliest in nearly three months of anti-government protests that have paralysed the capital of Kiev, turning it into a virtual war zone.


There were cries of ‘Glory to Ukraine!’ as thousands of riot police armed with stun grenades and water cannons attacked the sprawling protest camp in Independence Square.

Anti-government protesters throw missiles during clashes with riot police

Opposition leader Vitali Klitschko urged the 20,000 protesters to defend the square that has been at the heart of the protests.

Fireworks explode near anti-government protesters

‘We will not go anywhere from here,’ the former heavyweight boxing champion told the crowd.
‘This is an island of freedom and we will defend it.’

Anti-government protesters guard the perimeter of Independence Square

Speaking over loudspeakers, police urged women and children to leave the square because an ‘anti-terrorist’ operation was under way.

After several weeks of calm, violence has again flared between police and anti-government protesters

Mr Klitschko told reporters that he had asked the president Viktor Yanukovych to stop the police action to clear the square and prevent further deaths.

Anti-government protesters clash with riot police

The protests began three months ago when Mr Yanukovych turned away from a long-anticipated deal with the EU, instead strengthening the country’s ties with Russia.

Anti-government protesters take cover behind shields during clashes