Ukraine: Protesters occupy government buildings over EU deal

Ukrainian activists are blockading the government buildings in Kiev, as they prepare for fresh demonstrations demanding the resignation of the government.

Hundreds of protesters spent the night in Independence Square while others were barricaded inside city hall.

The unrest was triggered in November by President Viktor Yanukovych’s refusal to sign a deal on closer EU ties.

Parliamentary speaker Vlodymyr Rybak said talks between the government and the opposition would be held on Monday.

Vlodymyr Rybak said all sides would have an opportunity to express their opinions.

About 1,000 protesters camped out on Independence Square overnight, as activists prepare for round-the-clock demonstrations.

The protesters are blocking off the government’s main headquarters. Opposition leaders have called for a national strike and fresh street protests.

On Sunday between 100,000 and 500,000 took part in a march, defying a ban on rallies.

There were clashes near the presidential building, with demonstrators firing flares and riot police using tear gas, batons and stun grenades.

Some protesters stormed the city hall. One of them is the Russian opposition activist Pyotr Verzilov – husband of Pussy Riot punk group member Nadezhda Tolokonnikova, who is in jail in Russia.

Protests started more than a week ago after Viktor Yanukovych suspended preparations for signing an EU association agreement that would have opened borders to goods and set the stage for an easing of travel restrictions.