BEFORE AND AFTER: Kiev's Independence Square

Independence Square (aka Maidan) in central Kiev is that epicenter of the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.

Protesters have been camped out since December, defending Maidan against Russian-backed riot police and security forces loyal to Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych. At least 26 people have died int he clashes over the past two days.

Here's what Independence Square looked like in September 2009 as compared to Wednesday morning.