Participants in the so-called popular assembly, or veche, arriving at Independence Square in Kyiv have wiped away the metal shields surrounding a big Christmas tree under construction.

The popular assembly is due there despite a court-imposed ban.

After that part of the police officers standing behind to metal shields fled. Protesters are occupying the part of the square near the stele.

The equipment of municipal services still remains in the square. However, municipal workers also drove away from the scene.

Most of the protesters in the center of Kyiv have reached Independence Square and the surrounding streets.

They are moving with slogans "Gang ‒ Get Out!" and "Down with the [Christmas] Tree."

Part of the protesters for some time banged at the metal shields surrounding the foot of the Christmas tree that is being installed in the square.

Part of the young protesters is moving on both sides of Khreschatyk Street, holding hands and forming a live chain.

An Interfax-Ukraine correspondent reports that no law enforcers in uniforms are visible on Independence Square. The chiefs of the Kyiv police are staying close to Oktiabrsky Palace.

The UDAR party's press service reported that the protesters would not go to Yevropeiska Square but that the popular assembly would take place on Independence Square where opposition leaders are supposed to address the nation.

Traffic along Instytutska Street leading to government agencies' buildings is actually blocked. Dozens of cars are standing outside of the nearby metro station, and their drivers express support for the rally.

There are no protesters or law enforcers in Bankova Street but metal railings have been installed on the way to the presidential administration's building.

Eyewitnesses say a big number of people still remain in Shevchenko Park.