Two people have reportedly been shot dead during clashes between police and protesters in the Ukrainian capital of Kiev.

The country's interior ministry has so far confirmed only one death, but made no comment on the cause.

A second person also died from bullet wounds, according to one doctor at the scene.

Police threw stun grenades and broke through protesters' barricades made from burnt-out buses early on Wednesday morning.

The latest violence follows three nights of fighting that have left hundreds wounded in the Ukrainian capital.

Tensions in the country have reached a new high after several months of protests over President Viktor Yanukovych's refusal to sign a new deal bringing the country closer to the European Union.

Mr Yanukovych instead opted for closer ties with former communist master Russia.

Tough new anti-protest laws have also been rushed through to try to bring the situation under control, but have only increased protesters' anger.