Security forces are pulling back from crowds of protesters around a central square in Ukraine’s capital after a night of clashes between police and pro-European Union demonstrators.
Scuffles between the two groups took place early Wednesday in Kyiv’s city hall, as police wielding batons tried to drive protesters out of the building.
Reports say the protesters fought back by spraying water from fire hoses at the security forces. Police buses were later reported to be leaving the area.
Hours earlier, security agents stormed a protest encampment in the square and ripped down a tent city erected by the demonstrators.
The U.S. State Department issued a statement expressing “disgust” with the actions of Ukrainian authorities for introducing bulldozers and riot police to the scene, rather than exercising, in the words of Secretary of State John Kerry, “respect for democratic rights and human dignity.”
Kerry said that “respect for democratic principles, including freedom of assembly” is fundamental to the United States’ approach to Ukraine. He said these values are universal, not just American. He called for “utmost restraint” and said human life must be protected.
The protests began in late November, after the Ukrainian president backed away from a long-anticipated trade deal with the European Union, in favor of repairing and improving economic and political ties with Russia.
On Wednesday Ukraine’s Prime Minister Mykola Azarov said Ukraine is requesting $27.5 billion in financial assistance from the European Union before it signs an association agreement with the 28-nation bloc.
Mr. Azarov said Ukraine is inviting the European Commission to consider under what conditions Ukraine’s industry and economy will work.
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