Russia: Thousands attend multi-day protest in Yekaterinburg May 15 /update 1

Event

Thousands rallied at Oktyabrskaya Square in Yekaterinburg (Sverdlovsk oblast) on Wednesday evening (local time), May 15, as demonstrations related to the construction of a church at the site entered the third consecutive day. According to local sources, at least 44 people were arrested on Wednesday and several others were wounded as security forces attempted to clear the crowds. 

A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected over the coming hours and days. 

Context

Several people have been injured in amid a multi-day demonstration at Oktyabrskaya Square in Yekaterinburg in a dispute over the construction of St. Catherine's Cathedral at the site. Supporters and opponents of the project have rallied at the public square since May 13. The Russian Orthodox Church and its supporters maintain the church will replace one that was destroyed by the Soviet government. The Kremlin has also criticized the demonstrations and called for the construction to proceed. 

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.