Ukrainian anti-government demonstrators are celebrating the third week of continuous protests supporting European integration. In recent days they have resisted repeated attempts by the authorities to reclaim the streets.

Legions of riot police had stormed Independence Plaza, dismantling barricades, clashing with protesters and trying to take back the occupied City Hall. The police gave up after nine hours.

The centre of Kiev looks like a war camp covered by military tents, open fires, canteens and solemn demonstrations. People are enjoying the freedom of organised chaos and are bracing for another crackdown.