Pro-Ukrainian protest in Crimean capital; pro-Russians hoist flags in Donetsk скачать в хорошем качестве

Pro-Ukrainian protest in Crimean capital; pro-Russians hoist flags in Donetsk

(9 Mar 2014) Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in the Crimean regional capital, Simferopol on Sunday in support of the interim authorities in Kiev and against a referendum planned by the regional parliament on leaving Ukraine to join Russia. About 500 people, some wearing yellow-and-blue Ukrainian flags on their shoulders like capes, came out to oppose the referendum, scheduled to take place on March 16. People handed out fliers, one of which laid out the economic troubles that joining Russia would supposedly cause. The demonstrators were marking the 200th anniversary of the birth of Ukrainian national poet Taras Shevchenko, whose bust stood amongst them in the park. Some pro-Russians drove by, shouting "Moscow, Moscow!" from their cars, but there was no trouble. Meanwhile in the eastern city of Donetsk, pro-Russian demonstrators gathered outside the regional administration building and raised the Russian flag. Donetsk resident Anton Kotov said: "We are for Russia because it is the only salvation for us. Otherwise it will be an end for us here. Not all people here understand that." Demonstrators walked through downtown Donetsk chanting: "Russia! Russia!". About 5,000 people took part in the rally. A rally against Russian intervention in Ukraine in the same city was cancelled on Sunday when hundreds of opposing demonstrators halted the construction of the stage. Find out more about AP Archive: http://www.aparchive.com/HowWeWork Twitter:   / ap_archive   Facebook:   / aparchives   ​​ Instagram:   / apnews   You can license this story through AP Archive: http://www.aparchive.com/metadata/you...