How peaceful protests turned into bloody clashes: 2014 Hrushevskoho Street standoff

The events on Hrushevskoho Street in central Kyiv became a symbol of Ukrainians' unwavering determination to defend their rights, democratic values, and freedoms — even under the harshest conditions, as the authorities tried to suppress their will.

What led to the escalation?

Since late November 2013, large-scale but peaceful protests had been ongoing at Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square). Protesters demanded not only the signing of the EU Association Agreement but also the government’s resignation. Initially, the situation remained stable, though tensions grew with each passing day.

The tipping point came on January 16, 2014, when the parliament passed the infamous "dictatorial laws." These laws severely restricted freedom of speech, the right to protest, and the activities of public organizations. Adopted through procedural violations, the laws sparked even greater outrage in society.

The beginning of violent confrontation

On January 19, a mass people's assembly took place on Independence Square, drawing hundreds of thousands. Afterward, some activists headed toward the parliament via Hrushevskoho Street, only to find their path blocked by "Berkut" special forces.

Protesters tried to push through the "wall" of security forces and their equipment to deliver their message to the authorities. In response, the Berkut used force: firing traumatic weapons, deploying flashbang grenades and tear gas, and even using water cannons despite freezing temperatures.

Activists built makeshift barricades and set tires ablaze to create a thick black smoke screen. The clashes continued late into the night, escalating into a violent standoff where stones, Molotov cocktails, batons, flares, and other improvised weapons were used.

The human toll

According to doctors, as reported by Ukrinform, 122 people with injuries sought medical help between January 19 and 21, with 50 requiring hospitalization. However, the Euromaidan medical service provided higher numbers — stating that on January 19–20 alone, about 1,400 people were injured on Hrushevskoho.

Then came the news that shocked the nation. On January 22, Serhiy Nihoyan and Mykhailo Zhyznevskyi, active participants in the Revolution of Dignity, were killed. Their deaths stunned Ukrainians and drew global attention to the unfolding crisis in Ukraine. Tragically, this was just the beginning of a violent and deadly phase.

The events on Hrushevskoho Street marked a dramatic shift in the Revolution of Dignity, transforming it from a peaceful protest into an open struggle against the ruling regime and systemic injustice. These moments underscored Ukrainians' readiness to fight for their rights, even in the face of violence and death.