Tensions running high in central Kyiv

12:44, 18.02.2014 1 min read

Tensions are running high in Mariyinsky Park in front of the parliament building in central Kyiv, an Interfax-Ukraine correspondent reported.

Clashes erupt now and then between hundreds of radical-minded opposition activists and police. Flares and flash bangs are hurled at interior troops' cordons.

Protesters are preparing paving stones, moving them closer to police cordons.

One serviceman was reportedly injured and evacuated deeper into the law enforcement camp.

The first tensions flared up near a police cordon in Mariyinsky Park near the parliament building, which separates the Party of Regions supporters from anti-government protesters.

Mobilization was announced from an improvised stage of the pro-government rally and men strong enough to offer resistance were asked to walk to the left flank of the tented camp "to support the interior troops."

By contrast, women were urged to move to the square in front of the parliament building where they could be protected.