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Kyiv after the flames died down Printer friendly page Print This
By Paul Richard Harris, Axis of Logic. Photos by Ilya Varmalov
zyalt.livejournal.com
Wednesday, Jan 29, 2014

Editor's Commentary:
I visited Kyiv in 1982 (when most Westerners still spelled in 'Kiev'). I didn't plan it this way, but the city was that year celebrating the 1500th anniversary of its founding. To say I thought Kyiv was a beautiful and vibrant place would be an understatement.

I was on my way back there again in 1986 but found my trip diverted because of Chornobyl (usually misspelled in the West as Chernobyl).

As we've all seen, the people of Ukraine have risen up against their government in a futile fight over trade alliances. While the government has elected to align itself with Russia for trade purposes, the people appear to reject that and want to align with the European Union. The futility arises because there is not a chance in hell that the EU would ever admit Ukraine as a full member of the group - they would only use it as a supply depot. While the people might fear an alliance with Russia because of history, it is certainly their best economic option.

Anyway, I was interested in what Kyiv looks like after the fighting and I found these photos of Maidan - the central square where most of the clashes have occurred. I think you can still get a sense of what a beautiful place Kyiv is (or was).

- prh, Editor
Axis of Logic


Maidan Square


One of the main barricades in Institutskaya Street. You see its exterior. The banner on the left reads 'Belarus' which is a whole other country - I presume these are folks who have showed up in solidarity.


The barricades have turned into Kiev’s showplaces with both tourists and locals posing for pictures in front of them.


Tents for the mass media


Stones and paving are piled up at the barricades to use as weapons in case of attack.


The view as seen from the fighters’ side.


Many of the sidewalks are blocked, and people are simply walking around them to get to work or shopping.


A top view showing several barricade lines.


There’s a strict discipline on the barricades. The exit and entrance are situated on the opposite sides for streams of people not to cross. Numerous fighters are maintaining order.


The barricades in Hrushevskogo Street, in front of Dynamo Stadium. All the fights are taking place here.


A barricade guard.



For many more photos by Ilya Varlamov, visit his live journal here.



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