As anti-government protesters kept up their presence in Independence Square , there's word that an all-night negotiating session between European mediators, Ukraine's president and the opposition will bring about early elections in an attempt to end the ongoing political crisis,
This after EU colleagues in Brussels imposed targeted sanctions on Ukraine and threatened more if the authorities fail to restore calm -- it was a move that pleased protesters.
(SOUNDBITE) (Ukrainian) UNNAMED PROTESTER, SAYING:
"They help, it's good. It was necessary to do this earlier. It's a big win for us."
Also Friday, fighting broke out between deputies in Ukraine's parliament when the speaker declared a pause, delaying a debate on a possible resolution calling for the President's powers to be reduced.
And panic is spreading to Eastern Ukraine, where very long lines are developing at cash machines following violence in the capital Kiev.
(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) UNNAMED RESI
