Ukrainian Rulers Vow to Not Impede Pro-EU Rallies

Official reports have listed the number of pro-EU protesters in Kiev at several thousand at the most, however, photographs from the central Maydan square, show a much larger crowd. Photo EPA/BGNES

Ukrainian authorities will not obstruct pro-EU protests in the capital Kiev, said Monday lawmaker and Chairman of the parliamentary group of the ruling Party of Regions, Mikhail Chechetov.

"Let these people stay on the square; they are not doing anything. Many have come from other locations; let them walk around Kiev. The most important is to not litter the capital's downtown," stated the MP in an obvious downplaying of the mass protests.

Chechetov stressed the demonstrations in his country were strong evidence that Ukraine had the most democratic president ever.

Meanwhile fresh clashes between riot police and pro-EU protesters were reported Monday morning in Kiev as demonstrators tried to blockade the government headquarters.

Ukraine made the decision on the EU deal last week, saying it could not afford to break ties with Moscow. Russia is trying to bring Kiev into its own customs union.

Several rallies in Kiev have been held over the last few days, but Sunday's has been the largest so far. Rallies have been reported also in the Black sea city of Odessa and other cities.

Outraged Ukrainians say they do not want their country to become Russian province again, and pledge to not give up with the rallies until they receive assurances about the European future of their country.

Demonstrators remain on Maydan square, heavily guarded by police. The opposition urges signing the association agreement with the EU and sacking Prime Minister Mykola Azarov and his government.

The signing had been set for November 29 in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius.

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