“Nothing can save you when police officers intentionally break your arms”

Natalia KRAVCHUK, photographer:

“On Sunday I went to the Maidan like I go to work, even though I did not yet know if these photos would be printed [Natalia works as a photo journalist at the Korrespondent magazine, the top-management of which recently was changed. – Author]. It is great that people come out in the streets not for money, not for political parties’ flags, but to express their opinion. The only horrible thing is that provocations cast a shadow on this peaceful protest. Recently, I was given a bright-colored vest at my editorial office. This could be a good thing, but when I think of the events on Bankova Street (by the way, I was not there, since I am against provocations), I must say I did not expect that everything would turn out that bad. As experience shows, our government does not care at all whether you are a photographer, a journalist, or an operator. As far as I understand, only provocateurs are not hurt. Working in bright vests is not the best idea because they look bad in the picture if they get in the shot. However, they are a proof for the police at the same time. The second precaution that is being used by photographers now is wearing helmets. Another case from the Bankova Street: a helmet saved photographer Serhii Chuzavkov when a rock was thrown at him. But nothing can save you when police officers intentionally break your arms. Now we are trying to organize and help each other. Photographers are going to sue the police.”