19 Feb 2020 | 03:10 AM UTC
Ukraine: Euromaidan commemorations nationwide February 20
Commemorative events planned throughout Ukraine on February 20 to mark the sixth anniversary of the Euromaidan protests; localized disruptions possible
Event
Commemorative events are scheduled to take place across Ukraine on Thursday, February 20, to mark the sixth anniversary of the Euromaidan protests, also known as the Revolution of Dignity. Associated events will be held in cities across the country, including in Kyiv. Localized disruptions are possible around all commemorations.
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. To commemorate those victims, February 20 has since been declared the Day of Remembrance of the Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred.
Some commemorative 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 disruption near commemorative events.
