Violence flares in Ukraine as protesters march on parliament (Video, online)

Anti-government protesters have clashed with riot police in Kyiv. Many people are reported injured.

Violence flared as demonstrators tried to march on Ukraine’s parliament ahead of a crucial debate but were blocked from approaching the building by security forces.

Protesters hurled stones and Molotov cocktails, torching vehicles. They also stormed and set fire to a building belonging to President Viktor Yanukovych’s political party. Police replied with stun grenades and rubber bullets, Euronews reports.

Tension is also high in parliament where the opposition is pushing for constitutional change to reduce the president’s powers. Opposition members have moved to block other parliamentary business until a bill examining their demand for change is registered.