THE Metropolitan Police has shut down Whitehall following a “serious gas leak” – forcing anti-Russian protesters to move.
Thousands were expected to turn out in the capital to support Ukraine today, calling for Vladimir Putin to withdraw his forces from the country.
It is unclear, however, when Whitehall will re-open – prompting cops to make last minute plans.
Officers said they were in the process of making “alternative arrangements” on Twitter and urged anyone attending today's demonstrations to "follow police instructions".
The Met wrote: "Whitehall has been closed due to a serious gas leak, and is likely to remain closed for some time.
"We are in the process of making alternative arrangements for planned protests in the area today.
"If you are attending, please follow the instructions of police officers. Thank you."
It comes after thousands turned up outside Downing Street this weekend, desperately calling for an end to war.
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A 4,000 strong crowd gathered in Whitehall on Friday evening as demonstrators demanded the Prime Minister clamp down on warmongering Putin further.
Thousands were back on Saturday, with more planning to return today before this morning's news.
Boris Johnson last night said the “sense of outrage and disgust” over Russia's invasion of Ukraine was spreading.
And the PM vowed to “tighten the ligature” around Putin’s regime.
He is hopeful other countries will back Britain’s call to shut Russia out of the Swift global bank payments system.
But Mr Johnson admitted: “I think we have to face the hideous reality that diplomacy with Putin was a charade.
“The feeling is strong among people, even in Russia and countries who’ve been apathetic — there’s a sense of outrage and disgust.
“The UK will do everything to support our friends in Ukraine.
“That’s why we are sending humanitarian, financial and military supplies.
“We need to do more to apply tougher sanctions, including Swift.”
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