KIEV, February 24. /ITAR-TASS/. The situation at the railway station in Kiev is calm. Shopping malls, drugstores, cafes and restaurants were open, an Itar-Tass correspondent reported on Monday.

Almost all the fashion stores in the large ‘Ukraine’ shopping mall were open. However, there were no customers there as well as in footwear and perfume stores.

"Since the morning, you have been the first to come into our store," a saleslady in a boutique told the correspondent.

People were actively discussing political developments, but when somebody unknown approached, they became silent.

Kiev residents were buying large quantities of food and necessities in nearby food stores. They talked about the possible hryvnia rate drop and an expected rise of prices for food supplies.

Taxis continued working in the city, but drivers were reluctant to go to the central part.

Patrol groups formed by rioters from Independence Square appeared at some places, but police officers were not seen anywhere.

Overnight, submachine gun shooting was heard from an area near the railway station. However, the press service of Kiev police department refused to comment.