14 May 2020 | 10:03 AM UTC
Ukraine: Transport employees protest COVID-19 restrictions in Kyiv and Vinnytsia May 13
Transport employees demand the easing of COVID-19 restrictions in Kyiv and Vinnytsia on May 13; further protests possible in the near term
Event
Hundreds of individuals, mainly from the transportation sector, gathered in Kyiv and Vinnytsia on Wednesday, May 13, to protest coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions. Demonstrators called for the easing of various measures including the resumption of public transport and some business operations. In Kyiv, truck drivers disrupted traffic in the city center between European Square and Khreschatyk Street. In Vinnytsia, drivers gathered outside the city and parked on the roadside without disrupting traffic. No significant incidents or arrests were reported.
Further protests are possible in the near term. A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected in Ukraine, notably in urban centers, over the coming days.
Context
The implementation of domestic restrictive measures due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has already triggered tensions in Ukraine. Previously, in mid-February dozens of people protested, and some clashed with police in Poltava Oblast over plans to quarantine evacuees from China. On Monday, April 6, police forces reportedly blocked access to some public spaces in Kyiv, prompting discontent among the crowd and clashes, resulting in two arrests.
Advice
Individuals in Ukraine, notably in urban centers, are advised to monitor developments relating to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
