Ukraine Justice Minister: State of Emergency May Be Introduced

Ukraine's justice minister has warned anti-government protesters occupying her ministry that she will call for a state of emergency if they do not leave. Olena Lukash told local media she would ask the National Security and Defence Council to introduce the measures. Protesters seized the building in Kiev late on Sunday and set up barricades outside with bags of snow. Unrest is spreading across Ukraine, with activists taking over municipal buildings in up to 10 cities. Buildings have come under attack even in eastern areas which have traditionally had closer ties with Russia and where President Viktor Yanukovych has enjoyed strong support. The crisis was sparked by the president's decision not to sign an EU deal, and has escalated with the deaths of four activists in recent days. Correspondents say protesters entered the justice ministry building in the capital without resistance. "The seizure of the Ministry of Justice is a symbolic act of the people of the uprising. Now, these authorities are stripped of justice," one protester told reporters.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-25908643