Russia: Injuries reported amid protest in Yekaterinburg May 14-15

Event

At least one person was injured amid a multi-day demonstration in Yekaterinburg (Sverdlovsk oblast) during the evening hours (local time) Tuesday, May 14, into early Wednesday, May 15. Demonstrators gathered at Oktyabrskaya Square beginning on Monday, May 13, in a dispute over the construction of a church at the site. Supporters and opponents of the project clashed on Tuesday evening, prompting police to deploy tear gas in an attempt to disperse the gathers. Similar violent incidents were reported on Monday evening, with protesters blocking area roads. At least ten people have been arrested since the start of the demonstration. 

A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are likely in Yekaterinburg over the coming hours and days. Similar clashes between protest groups and police cannot be ruled out. 

Advice

Individuals in Yekaterinburg are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the affected area, prepare for traffic disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.