Protesters freed in Ukraine

Euronews has learnt at least five protesters, arrested during the recent demonstrations in Ukraine, have been released.

A total of nine people were detained following protests on December 1.

Their supporters surrounded Kyiv’s Appeals Court, having walked some seven kilometres in a show of solidarity.

Yana’s boyfriend, Mykola Lazarevskyi, was among those freed. She says they will investigate the circumstances of his arrest:

“We will be looking at this. I recently found photos taken by a Associated Press photographer. He gave us some photos, where we can see how Mykola is being led. He was detained a few blocks away from the Presidential complex.

Ukrainian rock singer, Svyatoslav Vakarchuk, said he was present as it is an important event.

“I came here to support others, too,” he affirmed. “I believe that for today it’s the most important thing that happened in the developments surrounding Independence Square. That is, the release of those who are under arrest.”

Protesters, as well as lawyers and family members, say those held were randomly picked up, and had not been fighting or provoking violence.

But the ordeal may not be over. Some of those released are on bail, others even on house arrest.