Anti-government protesters return to central Kiev Thursday, rebuilding barricades torn down by police, as the European Union holds out the promise of more aid if Ukraine signs a trade pact.

In Brussels, Ukraine's First Deputy Prime Minister Serhiy Arbuzov held talks with top EU officials to discuss the trade pact that Ukraine backed away from -- provoking a political crisis.

(SOUNDBITE) (Ukrainian) UKRAINE'S FIRST DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER, SERHIY ARBUZOV, SAYING:

" We listened to the Ukrainian people and our negotiations will continue. Ukraine will soon sign this Association Agreement with the European Union, taking into account the national strategic interest."

Ukraine faces battles on all sides. An EU deal would likely infuriate Moscow. No deal has driven scores of demonstrators to the streets -- and more are now streaming into the capital for another show of force this weekend at Independence Square.