protests

Kiev Burns: Watch the Deadly Protests As They Happen

At least nineteen people were killed today in the Ukrainian capital of Kiev as the months-long demonstrations once again intensified. Riot police reportedly raided Independence Square, the center of the anti-government protests, with tear gas, percussion grenades, and water cannons while members of the camp fought back with Molotov cocktails, stones, and fireworks.

The battle is streaming live on the internet:

Reuters has footage from earlier:

Protests have been raging since November, when pro-Russia President Viktor Yanukovych rejected a trade deal with Europe and then tightened laws against mass gatherings.

Update, 6 p.m.: Following the rash of deaths, “President Viktor Yanukovych will address the nation after meeting with the opposition, Yanukovych’s advisers told local media.”

We have no other way,” one protester, an accountant, told the Times. “We have been protesting for three months but are stuck in dead end.”

Riot police take cover behind shields as protesters throw rocks during a mass action of opposition at Independence Square, aimed at forcing president Viktor Yanukovych to resign. Photo: Kommersant Photo/2014 Kommersant Photo
A car is engulfed in flames during the protests. Photo: Kommersant Photo/2014 Kommersant Photo
Riot police take cover behind shields as fire errupts. Photo: Kommersant Photo/Getty Images
Protesters sit after being wounded. Photo: Kommersant Photo/2014 Kommersant Photo
Police clash with anti-government protesters in Kiev on February 18, 2014. Photo: AFP/2014 AFP

This post has been updated throughout.

Kiev on Fire As Protests Turn Deadly Again