World Cup fans upset at barriers on Red Square

Published Jun. 16, 2018 3:12 a.m. ET

MOSCOW (AP) While fans from around the world are singing and celebrating the World Cup on Moscow's streets, they can't go to the most famous place in the Russian capital - Red Square.

Barriers staffed by police officers have blocked off the square for several days, with authorities citing the need to build and dismantle stages for a national holiday and a World Cup-themed opera performance last Tuesday and Wednesday.

Mexico supporter Cesar Reyes, peering past the barriers, says ''it's a real shame it's closed because it's one of the best places to visit when you're in Moscow. It's a real shame that people will miss it because it's closed for special event and there's no opportunity to appreciate this building.''

Russian police have closed off a number of roads and other areas for security reasons over recent days. It's unclear when the square will be reopened.