Nato condemns use of “excessive force” against protesters in Ukraine

Nato foreign ministers have condemned the use of “excessive force” against pro-European protesters in Ukraine after a meeting in Brussels.

Mass protests were sparked by the government’s decision not to sign an association deal with the EU last week. Thousands demonstrated outside the parliament building in Kiev on Tuesday, with protests in the city once again continuing into the evening. Prime Minister Mykola Azarov apologised in parliament for the use of police force against protesters.

Nato ministers said in a statement that they urged “Ukraine… to fully abide by its international commitments and to uphold the freedom of expression and assembly”. “We urge the government and the opposition to engage in dialogue and launch a reform process,” they added.

On the other hand US Secretary of State John Kerry urged Ukraine to “listen to the voices of its people”. “We urge all sides to conduct themselves peacefully. Violence has no place in a modern European state,” Mr Kerry told reporters.

04.12.2013
SOURCE: MEDIA