The toll of Maidan Square, heavier than what the authorities say

(BRUSSELS2) According to information received directly by B2 from the spokespersons of the Ukrainian opposition, the toll given by the official authorities, of 25 dead, is largely understated. " Now we are sure that it is far superior. There are many wounded (NB: more than 500 according to the opposition). Some received first aid at our various mobile aid stations. But they can't really go to the hospital. Because they risk being arrested says Kateryna Maksym, one of the spokespersons of the Euromaidan Civic Sector. And even, " if they are arrested, and not kidnapped or killed as has been the case in the past, they are fine”. They are “therefore cared for by the inhabitants or sent to the churches which give them care”. NB: A clandestine method already used in other popular revolts. (detailed review below)

Use of live ammunition and grenades

Real street fights opposed demonstrators and law enforcement in Maidan Square in the evening and night of Tuesday (February 18). Two of the three water trucks employed by the police were burned. Some of the protesters were " killed by live ammunition. In the medical center at City Hall alone, the head of medical relief reported that 12 people were treated, victims of live ammunition ". For an example of a demonstrator being hit by a shot (we hear the weapons crackle, and this person collapsing, fatally hit), video broadcast on Facebook

There were only shootings but also the use of grenades - which were not only tear gas apparently - but explosives, of the same type as those used on January 19 (see this article and this photo published in a ukrainian newspaper). Read also the report of Kyiv Post

Since midnight, a "de facto state of emergency" has been established. Metro lines were interrupted, as was traffic, and all entrances to the city.

NB Report drawn up on February 19 at 1 a.m. (GMT+2) - in English