Pro-EU Protesters Released From Custody In Ukraine

Protesters try to break through a riot police line near the presidential administration building during a rally by EU supporters in Kyiv on December 1.

Three protesters detained for allegedly taking part in "mass disturbances" near the presidential administration office in Kyiv earlier this month have been released from custody.

The three were among several protesters arrested on December 1 after clashes with police in front of the presidential administration in the Ukrainian capital.

All were detained for two months. Accused of organizing mass riots, they could have faced between five and eight years in prison.

All had been badly beaten by riot police during the clashes.

The Ukrainian opposition has demanded the release of all those detained over pro-EU protests. President Viktor Yanukovych said this week that he will ask the prosecutor-general to seek ways to release some of the detainees.

With reporting by UNIAN and Pravda.com.ua