With Ukrainian protesters occupying several key buildings in Kyiv, the heart of the demonstrations -- Independence Square -- continues to live a life of its own. Antigovernment activists, some of whom have been living on the square for two months, are waiting for opposition leaders' negotiations with the government to move forward. Meanwhile, they fill their time preparing food, battling the cold, and sometimes just playing chess. (Photos by Franak Viachorka, RFE/RL's Belarus Service)
Still Life On Kyiv's Independence Square
1
Protesters serve themselves hot drinks. Volunteers help prepare hot food and beverages, provided by donations.
2
Opposition protesters play soccer on an icy pitch near European Square.
3
Memorials to protesters who have died in clashes with police have sprung up all over Independence Square. At this memorial, flowers and photos are placed in honor of Mikhail Zhyzneuski, a young Belarusian who died of a gunshot wound.
4
An outdoor chess game in the cold
5
A small group holds an impromptu demonstration against President Viktor Yanukovych.
6
Piles of extra clothing are available to help protesters keep warm.
7
A small memorial honors victims of the recent violence.
8
Access points to Independence Square are lined with barbed wire.
9
The wreckage of a car that was set on fire during an outbreak of street violence
10
Viktor, a 25-year-old businessman, says he's tired and eager for the opposition to reach an agreement with President Yanukovych. For the time being, he stays busy distributing food and tea.
11
The fire-damaged entrance to Dynamo Stadium
12
A display on the square shows bullet cartridges allegedly used by security forces against demonstrators.
13
A souvenir stand offers magnets and t-shirts stating "I was at the Maidan" -- the alternate name of Independence Square and shorthand for the antigovernment protests.
14
Protesters carry shields appropriated from special forces.
15
Protesters try to keep warm around a bonfire.