The number of law enforcement officers killed during protests in Kazakhstan has increased to 18, the Kazakh news agency Tengrinews.kz reported on Thursday citing the Kazakh Interior Ministry.

748 police officers and soldiers were hurt, according to the news oultlet.

A total of 2,298 demonstrators were held across the country, according to the agency.&nbsp;

Kazakhstan's Internal Affairs Ministry has said that those who refuse to lay down their arms will be killed.

According to Russian news agencies Interfax and RIA Novosti, Kazakhstan's Khabar 24 news station reported the death toll as of midday, claiming that the body of one of the slain security officials was discovered with its head chopped off.&nbsp;

As Moscow-led soldiers deployed to assist in suppressing major unrest that left dozens dead and hundreds jailed, bursts of gunfire resonated through the streets of Kazakhstan's main city on Thursday. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nationwide-emergency-declared-in-kazakhstan-us-and-un-urge-restraint-442526">Also Read:&nbsp;Nationwide emergency declared in Kazakhstan, US and UN urge restraint</a>

A day after demonstrators stormed multiple government buildings, fighting appeared to be continuing, with an AFP correspondent hearing regular bursts of gunfire from the direction of a central square. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-protests-over-fuel-price-hike-kazakhstan-declares-state-of-emergency-in-cities-hit-by-unrest-442311">Also Read:&nbsp;Amid protests over fuel price hike, Kazakhstan declares state of emergency&nbsp;</a>

The streets of Almaty were littered with burned-out automobiles, numerous government buildings were in ruins, and bullet shells littered the grounds of the presidential palace, which had been assaulted and ransacked by demonstrators on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Kazakhstan protests create a new headache for Putin

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-kazakhstan-protests-create-a-new-headache-for-putin-442752/embed" width="560"></iframe>

(With inputs from agencies)

The number of law enforcement officers killed during protests in Kazakhstan has increased to 18, the Kazakh news agency Tengrinews.kz reported on Thursday citing the Kazakh Interior Ministry.

The number of law enforcement officers killed during protests in Kazakhstan has increased to 18, the Kazakh news agency Tengrinews.kz reported on Thursday citing the Kazakh Interior Ministry. 748 police officers and soldiers were hurt, according to the news oultlet. A total of 2,298 demonstrators were held across the country, according to the agency. Kazakhstan's Internal Affairs Ministry has said that those who refuse to lay down their arms will be killed. According to Russian news agencies Interfax and RIA Novosti, Kazakhstan's Khabar 24 news station reported the death toll as of midday, claiming that the body of one of the slain security officials was discovered with its head chopped off. As Moscow-led soldiers deployed to assist in suppressing major unrest that left dozens dead and hundreds jailed, bursts of gunfire resonated through the streets of Kazakhstan's main city on Thursday. Also Read: Nationwide emergency declared in Kazakhstan, US and UN urge restraint A day after demonstrators stormed multiple government buildings, fighting appeared to be continuing, with an AFP correspondent hearing regular bursts of gunfire from the direction of a central square. Also Read: Amid protests over fuel price hike, Kazakhstan declares state of emergency The streets of Almaty were littered with burned-out automobiles, numerous government buildings were in ruins, and bullet shells littered the grounds of the presidential palace, which had been assaulted and ransacked by demonstrators on Wednesday. Watch | Gravitas: Kazakhstan protests create a new headache for Putin (With inputs from agencies)

Those who don't shun violence will be killed, says Kazakh govt as 18 troops die

Following recent violent protests in Kazakhstan, a state of emergency has been declared, with troops from a Russian-led military alliance heading to the Central Asian country to assist in quelling the unrest.&nbsp;

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's authoritarian regime has been rocked by protests over a significant jump in fuel prices, and Russian paratroopers are on the ground in Kazakhstan, offering support.

Tokayev has ordered security forces to shoot without warning, according to Tokayev's statement on Friday.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kazakh-president-tokayev-to-troops-open-fire-to-kill-terrorists-without-warning-442892">Also read | Kazakh President Tokayev to troops: 'Open fire to kill terrorists without warning'</a>

The following are the specifics of the current hot topic:&nbsp;

Kazakhstan's importance and impact on global geopolitics

Kazakhstan is bordered to the north by Russia and to the east by China.It is a massive country the size of Western Europe, dwarfing the other former Soviet republics of Central Asia in terms of land mass.

It has substantial mineral resources, accounting for 3% of global oil reserves and having significant coal and gas industries.It is a predominantly Muslim republic with a sizable Russian minority that has largely avoided the civil wars that have afflicted other parts of Central Asia.

The administration has been rocked by fuel riots, which have resulted in top-level resignations and a deadly crackdown on protestors.&nbsp;

What caused this uproar?

A policy adjustment in the pricing of liquefied petroleum gas, which many people use to power their cars, removed subsidies and enabled markets to set fuel costs.

In a matter of days, prices skyrocketed.Fuel prices have risen in the region where the protests began.

Is it simply about gas prices that people are protesting?

Not at all.The crisis occurs against a backdrop of growing labour costs and occasional ethnic unrest in a country where the vast majority of the population benefits little from the country's vast oil resources on a daily basis.

For years, low salaries, late paychecks, bad working conditions, environmental devastation, and widespread corruption have been issues.

The epidemic exacerbated these problems, exposing a chronically underfunded, incompetent, and corrupt healthcare system while also sending the economy into a tailspin.

Why did enraged protestors turn against the government so quickly?

The demonstrations follow a period of repression.The Nazarbayev government has promised systemic change for decades, including enhanced political liberties, judicial reform, stronger governance, and anti-corruption efforts.

When Tokayev gained office in 2019, he continued this trend of promising reform, even touring the country on a "listening tour."

On the other hand, instead of opening up society, Tokayev clamped down on opposition.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Kazakhstan protests create a new headache for Putin

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-kazakhstan-protests-create-a-new-headache-for-putin-442752/embed" width="560"></iframe>

So, what's next?

The situation is still volatile, and the role of Kazakhstan's special security forces will be crucial in determining how it ends.

Several members of those forces were reportedly killed in clashes this week, and the security services saw a leadership change as a result of the government reshuffle. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/those-who-dont-shun-violence-will-be-killed-says-kazakh-govt-as-18-troops-die-442733">Also read | Those who don't shun violence will be killed, says Kazakh govt as 18 troops die</a>

On the other hand, the social compact between the state and the people has been plainly shattered.

Real reform is required for Kazakhstan to return to stability, albeit it is unknown who will be available and capable of bringing such a transformation about.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Following recent violent protests in Kazakhstan, a state of emergency has been declared, with troops from a Russian-led military alliance heading to the Central Asian country to assist in quelling the unrest.

Following recent violent protests in Kazakhstan, a state of emergency has been declared, with troops from a Russian-led military alliance heading to the Central Asian country to assist in quelling the unrest. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's authoritarian regime has been rocked by protests over a significant jump in fuel prices, and Russian paratroopers are on the ground in Kazakhstan, offering support. Tokayev has ordered security forces to shoot without warning, according to Tokayev's statement on Friday. Also read | Kazakh President Tokayev to troops: 'Open fire to kill terrorists without warning' The following are the specifics of the current hot topic: Kazakhstan's importance and impact on global geopolitics Kazakhstan is bordered to the north by Russia and to the east by China.It is a massive country the size of Western Europe, dwarfing the other former Soviet republics of Central Asia in terms of land mass. It has substantial mineral resources, accounting for 3% of global oil reserves and having significant coal and gas industries.It is a predominantly Muslim republic with a sizable Russian minority that has largely avoided the civil wars that have afflicted other parts of Central Asia. The administration has been rocked by fuel riots, which have resulted in top-level resignations and a deadly crackdown on protestors. What caused this uproar? A policy adjustment in the pricing of liquefied petroleum gas, which many people use to power their cars, removed subsidies and enabled markets to set fuel costs. In a matter of days, prices skyrocketed.Fuel prices have risen in the region where the protests began. Is it simply about gas prices that people are protesting? Not at all.The crisis occurs against a backdrop of growing labour costs and occasional ethnic unrest in a country where the vast majority of the population benefits little from the country's vast oil resources on a daily basis. For years, low salaries, late paychecks, bad working conditions, environmental devastation, and widespread corruption have been issues. The epidemic exacerbated these problems, exposing a chronically underfunded, incompetent, and corrupt healthcare system while also sending the economy into a tailspin. Why did enraged protestors turn against the government so quickly? The demonstrations follow a period of repression.The Nazarbayev government has promised systemic change for decades, including enhanced political liberties, judicial reform, stronger governance, and anti-corruption efforts. When Tokayev gained office in 2019, he continued this trend of promising reform, even touring the country on a "listening tour." On the other hand, instead of opening up society, Tokayev clamped down on opposition. Watch | Gravitas: Kazakhstan protests create a new headache for Putin So, what's next? The situation is still volatile, and the role of Kazakhstan's special security forces will be crucial in determining how it ends. Several members of those forces were reportedly killed in clashes this week, and the security services saw a leadership change as a result of the government reshuffle. Also read | Those who don't shun violence will be killed, says Kazakh govt as 18 troops die On the other hand, the social compact between the state and the people has been plainly shattered. Real reform is required for Kazakhstan to return to stability, albeit it is unknown who will be available and capable of bringing such a transformation about. (With inputs from agencies)

Kazakhstan unrest: What sparked the protests and how they will affect global geopolitics

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the president of Kazakhstan, announced on Friday that he has instructed the military and law enforcement agencies to use lethal force against terrorists, firing without warning.&nbsp;

In a televised address to the nation, Tokayev said, "I gave the order to law enforcement agencies and the army to open fire to kill without warning."

He also blasted calls for talks with the protesters made by some other countries as "nonsense." "What negotiations can be held with criminals or murderers?" Tokayev said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/those-who-dont-shun-violence-will-be-killed-says-kazakh-govt-as-18-troops-die-442733">Also read | Those who don't shun violence will be killed, says Kazakh govt as 18 troops die</a>

According to Tokayev, at least 20,000 gunmen attacked Almaty. He said that the armed rioters were trained and coordinated by one centre and that the terrorists would be eliminated if they refused to surrender.

The president also blamed "so-called" independent" media" and "foreign agents" for inciting the unrest, and vowed to retaliate harshly if law and order were violated.&nbsp;

Tokayev congratulated Russian President Vladimir Putin for responding quickly to his request for peacekeepers, emphasising that the CSTO forces will only be in the country for a limited period of time.

He also stated that the authorities were aware of peaceful protestors' demands before the riots erupted and announced reforms, stating that he will deliver a statement on the current crisis in the nation's parliament on January 11th.

The country's mass protests began in early January, when citizens took to the streets to protest rising petrol prices.

The disturbance subsequently expanded to neighbouring cities, culminating in looting, burning, and vandalism, as well as violent fights with the police.&nbsp;

Hundreds of people rushed to the mayor's office and the ancient presidential mansion in Almaty, Kazakhstan's old capital and largest city.

Multiple instances of attacks on police officers and troops have surfaced.

Tokayev requested aid from the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO), which is sending peacekeeping personnel to defend critical objects in the country, in order to stop the bloodshed.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Kazakhstan protests create a new headache for Putin

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-kazakhstan-protests-create-a-new-headache-for-putin-442752/embed" width="560"></iframe>

(With inputs from agencies)

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the president of Kazakhstan, announced on Friday that he has instructed the military and law enforcement agencies to use lethal force against terrorists, firing without warning.

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the president of Kazakhstan, announced on Friday that he has instructed the military and law enforcement agencies to use lethal force against terrorists, firing without warning. In a televised address to the nation, Tokayev said, "I gave the order to law enforcement agencies and the army to open fire to kill without warning." He also blasted calls for talks with the protesters made by some other countries as "nonsense." "What negotiations can be held with criminals or murderers?" Tokayev said. Also read | Those who don't shun violence will be killed, says Kazakh govt as 18 troops die According to Tokayev, at least 20,000 gunmen attacked Almaty. He said that the armed rioters were trained and coordinated by one centre and that the terrorists would be eliminated if they refused to surrender. The president also blamed "so-called" independent" media" and "foreign agents" for inciting the unrest, and vowed to retaliate harshly if law and order were violated. Tokayev congratulated Russian President Vladimir Putin for responding quickly to his request for peacekeepers, emphasising that the CSTO forces will only be in the country for a limited period of time. He also stated that the authorities were aware of peaceful protestors' demands before the riots erupted and announced reforms, stating that he will deliver a statement on the current crisis in the nation's parliament on January 11th. The country's mass protests began in early January, when citizens took to the streets to protest rising petrol prices. The disturbance subsequently expanded to neighbouring cities, culminating in looting, burning, and vandalism, as well as violent fights with the police. Hundreds of people rushed to the mayor's office and the ancient presidential mansion in Almaty, Kazakhstan's old capital and largest city. Multiple instances of attacks on police officers and troops have surfaced. Tokayev requested aid from the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO), which is sending peacekeeping personnel to defend critical objects in the country, in order to stop the bloodshed. Watch | Gravitas: Kazakhstan protests create a new headache for Putin (With inputs from agencies)

Kazakh President Tokayev to troops: 'Open fire to kill terrorists without warning'

At least 1,000 people were wounded and several killed in&nbsp;Kazakhstan during anti-government protests against rising fuel prices which has widened into&nbsp;large scale nationwide demonstrations.

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev who has been facing heat from protesters appealed for help from Russian-led Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) as Russia&nbsp;sent paratroopers and military units. The president's cabinet had resigned earlier.

CSTO said it had sent "peacekeeping forces" to Kazakhstan for a "limited time to stabilise and normalise the situation".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nationwide-emergency-declared-in-kazakhstan-us-and-un-urge-restraint-442526">Also Read:&nbsp;Nationwide emergency declared in Kazakhstan, US and UN urge restraint</a>

Meanwhile, reports claimed at least twelve security officials were killed in the unrest.&nbsp;

Protests have continued as demonstrators took control of Almaty airport even as Tokayev declared that the protesters were "terrorist gangs".

Watch:&nbsp;&nbsp;Kazakhstan PM &amp; his cabinet resign&nbsp;

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Armed troops clashed with protesters in Almaty's main square as protests continued for the third day. Russia's TASS news agency said at least 400 protesters were hospitalised.

As protests raged, Tokayev said: "It is an undermining of the integrity of the state and most importantly it is an attack on our citizens who are asking me to help them urgently."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-protests-over-fuel-price-hike-kazakhstan-declares-state-of-emergency-in-cities-hit-by-unrest-442311">Also Read:&nbsp;Amid protests over fuel price hike, Kazakhstan declares state of emergency&nbsp;</a>

Reports claimed internet services were down with banks suspending work due to increased violence in the streets.

(With inputs from Agencies)

At least 1,000 people were wounded and several killed in Kazakhstan during anti-government protests against rising fuel prices which has widened into large scale nationwide demonstrations.

At least 1,000 people were wounded and several killed in Kazakhstan during anti-government protests against rising fuel prices which has widened into large scale nationwide demonstrations. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev who has been facing heat from protesters appealed for help from Russian-led Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) as Russia sent paratroopers and military units. The president's cabinet had resigned earlier. CSTO said it had sent "peacekeeping forces" to Kazakhstan for a "limited time to stabilise and normalise the situation". Also Read: Nationwide emergency declared in Kazakhstan, US and UN urge restraint Meanwhile, reports claimed at least twelve security officials were killed in the unrest. Protests have continued as demonstrators took control of Almaty airport even as Tokayev declared that the protesters were "terrorist gangs". Watch: Kazakhstan PM & his cabinet resign Armed troops clashed with protesters in Almaty's main square as protests continued for the third day. Russia's TASS news agency said at least 400 protesters were hospitalised. As protests raged, Tokayev said: "It is an undermining of the integrity of the state and most importantly it is an attack on our citizens who are asking me to help them urgently." Also Read: Amid protests over fuel price hike, Kazakhstan declares state of emergency Reports claimed internet services were down with banks suspending work due to increased violence in the streets. (With inputs from Agencies)

Security officials killed in Kazakhstan protests; Russian alliance sends troops

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Tuesday called snap elections for June 9 following last month's surprise resignation of the Central Asian nation's longtime ruler.&nbsp;

"Dear compatriots... I have decided to hold snap elections on June 9, 2019," Tokayev, who replaced Nursultan Nazarbayev following his resignation last month, said in an address on state television.&nbsp;

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Tuesday called snap elections for June 9 following last month's surprise resignation of the Central Asian nation's longtime ruler.

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Tuesday called snap elections for June 9 following last month's surprise resignation of the Central Asian nation's longtime ruler. "Dear compatriots... I have decided to hold snap elections on June 9, 2019," Tokayev, who replaced Nursultan Nazarbayev following his resignation last month, said in an address on state television.

Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev calls snap polls in June