Ukrainian parliament votes to remove president

Ukraine’s parliament voted Saturday to remove president Viktor Yanukovich from power.

The vote came hours after the president abandoned his office in Kyiv and denounced what he calls a “coup.” Parliament declared Yanukovich constitutionally unable to carry out his duties, and called for an early election on May 25.

The president said he would not resign or leave the country, and called the actions of parliament “illegal.” Yanukovich’s pro-Russia stance sparked the anger of Ukraine’s opposition. His decision to pull out of a trade deal with the European Union and take an aid package from Moscow led to weeks of protests in Kiev.

Despite today’s developments, protestors maintain a sombre mood. Kyiv resident Marc Marczyk spoke with CHCH News over the phone and says continuous funerals for those killed in the violence have dampened any celebration.

“There’s a mix of relief. Definitely a bit lighter, but this is a day of mourning today,” says Marczyk. “There’s a sigh of relief. People are taking a second to thank the people who fought so hard for the last month.”

Dozens of people have been killed in the violence.