Statement by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Leonid Kozhara

posted 18 February 2014 14:46

Today, radicals in Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, pretending that they are peaceful protesters, have initiated a new unwarranted outburst of violence and lawlessness.

The so-called protesters have been attacking the public authorities’ buildings, committing arsons, causing grievous bodily harm to law enforcement officials, using firearms and urging upon others citizens to assist them.

These illegal activities that threaten the lives and safety of citizens of Ukraine and the constitutional order in the country, demand from the authorities to overhaul and respond appropriately within the current legislation in order to restore law and order.

We are calling on foreign governments and international organizations to assess the situation in Ukraine, as well as expecting a strong condemnation of the illegal actions taken by radical force.