Ukrainians, Russians put conflict at center of May Day
- 10 years ago
As May Day kicks off in Ukraine, thousands march through Kiev.
With flags, banners and song... they're calling for unity.
The country has been embroiled in a bitter conflict with neighboring Russia.
People in Kiev blame Moscow for trying to divide the country.
(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) VALENTYN SMIKHUN, KIEV RESIDENT, SAYING:
"Yes, I think interference from outside is unacceptable. Let the Russians deal with Dagestan and separatists as they call themselves and not interfere with our country. We will deal on our own. Our country is brilliant and we must be united."
In Russia, May Day rallies also focused on Ukraine.
Thousands marched through Moscow under the Soviet flag as well as banners representing the "Just Russia" party.
At a nearby square, one party leader pledged support for pro-Russian separatists in Ukraine.
(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) 'JUST RUSSIA' PARTY LEADER SERGEI MIRONOV ON STAGE, SAYING:
"We express solidarity with our br
With flags, banners and song... they're calling for unity.
The country has been embroiled in a bitter conflict with neighboring Russia.
People in Kiev blame Moscow for trying to divide the country.
(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) VALENTYN SMIKHUN, KIEV RESIDENT, SAYING:
"Yes, I think interference from outside is unacceptable. Let the Russians deal with Dagestan and separatists as they call themselves and not interfere with our country. We will deal on our own. Our country is brilliant and we must be united."
In Russia, May Day rallies also focused on Ukraine.
Thousands marched through Moscow under the Soviet flag as well as banners representing the "Just Russia" party.
At a nearby square, one party leader pledged support for pro-Russian separatists in Ukraine.
(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) 'JUST RUSSIA' PARTY LEADER SERGEI MIRONOV ON STAGE, SAYING:
"We express solidarity with our br