Kiev erupts in overnight violence, fire
- 10 years ago
The Ukrainian capital of Kiev is burning overnight Wednesday as clashes erupt between anti-government protesters and police.
Smoke and flames billowed from the trade union building which was being used as an anti-government headquarters. People could be seen climbing on the side the building as jets of water sprayed onto the fire.
Earlier in the night, protesters stormed the Ukrainian Interior Ministry building- smashing windows and throwing furniture.
The violence began Tuesday as police stormed Independence Square, the center of three months of protests against President Viktor Yanukovich. Demonstrators tried to stand their ground throwing molotov cocktails and fireworks at police.
At least 14 demonstrators and seven police officers were killed.
Late night talks broke down between opposition leader Vitali Klitschko and President Yanukovich leaving little hope for a respite from the violence.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) OPPOSITION LEADER, VITALI KLITSCHKO
Smoke and flames billowed from the trade union building which was being used as an anti-government headquarters. People could be seen climbing on the side the building as jets of water sprayed onto the fire.
Earlier in the night, protesters stormed the Ukrainian Interior Ministry building- smashing windows and throwing furniture.
The violence began Tuesday as police stormed Independence Square, the center of three months of protests against President Viktor Yanukovich. Demonstrators tried to stand their ground throwing molotov cocktails and fireworks at police.
At least 14 demonstrators and seven police officers were killed.
Late night talks broke down between opposition leader Vitali Klitschko and President Yanukovich leaving little hope for a respite from the violence.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) OPPOSITION LEADER, VITALI KLITSCHKO