19 Feb 2019 | 01:56 AM UTC
Ukraine: Euromaidan commemorations expected February 18-20
Events to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the Euromaidan protests are expected to be held across Ukraine from February 18-20, particularly in Kyiv
Event
Rallies to mark the fifth anniversary of the Euromaidan protests, also known as the Revolution of Dignity, are expected to be held across Ukraine from Monday, February 18, through Wednesday, February 20. The main commemorations will likely take place in the capital Kyiv, particularly at Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square), Khreschatyk Street, and Heavenly Hundred Alley. While the rallies are expected to remain peaceful, heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are likely near all commemorative events.
Context
The Euromaidan movement took place from November 2013 until February 2014 and resulted in the ouster of then-President Viktor Yanukovych. Over 100 people were killed during clashes on Maidan Nezalezhnosti in Kyiv on February 18-20, 2014. Some commemoration events in 2016 turned violent, with crowds targeting Russian businesses, such as banks and diplomatic missions.
Advice
Individuals in Ukraine, particularly Kyiv, are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all public gatherings as a precaution, refrain from discussing political subjects in public or on social media, and anticipate a heightened security presence and business and transportation disruptions.
