Thousands gather in anticipation of Puigdemont's crucial speech

Thousands of people have gathered near the Catalan parliament buildings as a show of support for the independence movement, waiting in tense anticipation for Carles Puigdemont’s key speech on the referendum results.

It is still unclear whether independence will be declared or not, as Puigdemont delays his appearance by one hour and international pressure mounts urging for dialogue, with European Commission president Donald Tusk calling on Puigdemont to step back.

In a last minute appeal, Tusk urged the Catalan president not to declare independence. The crowds remain unperturbed, however, as many wave Catalan flags in the air, preparing for what could be a historic moment for Catalonia.