Comments on: One last roundup

By: Matthew

Matthew — Thu, 25 Nov 2004 15:48:04 +0000

Excellent coverage Nick.

By: Orange

Orange — Thu, 25 Nov 2004 09:46:22 +0000

Pass the word – Orange for Ukraine and Democracy – Wear orange on Monday, November 29

By: Michael S

Michael S — Thu, 25 Nov 2004 07:14:41 +0000

It’s not implausible that Kuchma would mistrust Ukrainian special forces, but from what I’ve seen so far, presence of Russian troops in Kiev should still be classified as a rumor. The opposition publicized this vigorously, but even the folks at Maidan can’t quite come up with a confirmation yet (an article in Ukrainian with several claims about the forces, of which the one about disguised Russian specnaz seems to have the weakest support.) On the other hand, I’ve read (somewhere?) that being responsible for illegal presence of foreign troops on Ukrainian soil counts as high treason under the law. If so, it could potentially provide legal cover for a coup d’etat. In practical terms I would be more worried about clashes between Ukrainians.

By: Phil Hunt

Phil Hunt — Thu, 25 Nov 2004 05:44:49 +0000

I think you’re right — both sides will play a waiting game.

I think it may come down to who the Ukrainian armed forces side with. If Russian troops fire on Ukrainians, the Ukrainian forces may be pushed into siding with Yushchenko. There are reports on Maidan that they are doing this anyway, though I do not know how much credence to place on them.

If the EU’s leaders have any sense, they will take a no-nonsense line with Putin.

By: Nosemonkey

Nosemonkey — Thu, 25 Nov 2004 04:53:25 +0000

I think – despite the protests – it should stay calm until after the Barroso/Putin meeting tomorrow – the government won’t want to risk alienating Russia, and the opposition leadership aren’t keen on violence, because they know if they instigate anything they’ll lose international support. Plus it’s very cold and late over there…

As for busy days – 5 times my previous highest number of visitors today, and more than that for page loads… not bad!

By: Phil Hunt

Phil Hunt — Thu, 25 Nov 2004 04:18:55 +0000

The BBC is reporting that large numbers of Yanukovych’s supporters are now protesting in Kiev, near to Yushchenko’s supporters, and this is creating “an air of tension”.

This could get nasty.