BBC NEWS | In Pictures | In pictures: Ukraine stand-off

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Supporters of the pro-Russian government protest on Independence Square in Kiev on 3 April 2007.

Supporters of Ukraine's pro-Russian prime minister have converged on central Kiev to protest against the West-leaning president.

Government supporters protest at the independence Square in Kiev.

The protest comes in the midst of a worsening political crisis culminating in President Viktor Yushchenko's decision to dissolve parliament and call an early general election.

Yanukovych supporters listen to their leader during a rally in Kiev.

Irate at Mr Yushchenko's decision, they heard PM Viktor Yanukovych urge them into defiance.

Yanukovych supporters shout outside the parliament building in Kiev.

Many elderly people have taken to the streets to express their disapproval.

Mr Yanukovych greets his supporters during a rally in Kiev.

Mr Yanukovych stepped down to shake hands, visibly elated at the display of support.

Mr Yushchenko (L) talks to Mr Yanukovych during their meeting on 3 April.

Mr Yushchenko, who accuses his rival of trying to usurp power unconstitutionally, called a meeting to get the PM to implement his decree.

Yanukovych addresses parliament at an emergency session on 3 April.

Mr Yanukovych refused - as did his majority in parliament which is defying the president's order to dissolve.

President Yushchenko meets security and law enforcement officials in Kiev.

As commander-in-chief, the president met security chiefs and promised not to allow violence to be used.

Leader of the opposition Yulia Tymoshenko speaks during her press-conference in Kiev on 3 April.

Opposition leader Yulia Tymoshenko may benefit from a new election set for 27 May - her party trails that of Mr Yanukovych in opinion polls.

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