Violent clashes in Ukraine

ROUGH CUT (NO REPORTER NARRATION).

Violent scenes in Kiev as protesters attacked riot police Sunday, as up to 100,000 Ukrainians gathered to decry sweeping new laws aimed at stamping out anti-government demonstrations.

The clashes broke out after opposition politicians called on people to disregard the new legislation that bans rallies which have convulsed the former Soviet republic for two months.

Protesters showered fireworks and other objects on riot police, who protected themselves with shields. As darkness fell, smoke bombs sent up clouds of smoke over the area, but many people trying to break through police lines had withdrawn.

The rally, the biggest this year, was spurred by legislation rushed through parliament last week which the opposition says will lead to a police state.