Ukrainian rescuers took over 300 persons out of the Trade Unions House in Odessa, which caught fire in the afternoon of May 2. Thirty-six persons died in the blaze, IPN reports.

The fire started as a result of violent clashes between Pro-Russians and groups of supporters of the pro-European administration of Ukraine. Bottles with an inflammable substance were thrown into the government building. The authorities announced that the flames engulfed two of the upper stories of the building. Many people suffered injuries when jumping out. The press reported that those who died included Moldovans living in the Transnistrian region.

The doctors in Odessa called on the residents of the city to donate blood for those who were seriously hurt. A number of mobile points were set up for the purpose.

The government announced three days of national morning for the victims of the Odessa clashes starting with May 3.