Clashes between police and anti-government protesters are continuing in the Ukranian capital Kiev in the deadliest episode since protests began three months ago. At least 25 people have died, including at least nine police officers, and more than 200 have been injured since Tuesday, when protesters clashed with police near parliament. In the evening, police closed in on the protesters’ encampment in Independence Square, spurring protesters to set fire to the perimeter in a bid to defend the site. The protests erupted in November over the decision by President Viktor Yanukovych to strengthen economic ties with Russia instead of Europe. Earlier today, opposition leader Vitali Klitschko said talks with the president had broken down.

Vitali Klitschko: “I am very unhappy because it was no discussion and the president don’t want to listen opposition. They don’t want to listen, and it’s just one way opposition have, and all protesters have to stop protests, they have to stop this demonstration, he said. But right now, it’s very important to make a break and not fight anymore. Thank you.”

Klitschko is the opposition leader who U.S. diplomat Victoria Nuland was recently caught on tape discussing in a hacked phone call. In the leaked conversation, Nuland says, “I don’t think [Klitschko] should go into the government. I don’t think it’s necessary. I don’t think it’s a good idea.” European foreign ministers are holding an emergency meeting on Ukraine today in Brussels, where they are expected to discuss possible sanctions.