Ukraine: EP acts in support of people of Ukraine

The European Parliament today adopted a Resolution on Ukraine by a large majority. EPP Group MEPs who visited Euromaidan in Kiev, presidium of the protests, the civil society and media as well as the Ukrainian Parliament and government representatives, welcomed the Resolution, expressing strong support for the people of Ukraine.

"Tension has escalated because violence was used against peaceful demonstrators”, clarified Elmar Brok MEP, Chairman of the European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee. “We call on President Yanukovych to stop these practices and demand the immediate and unconditional release and the political rehabilitation of all the demonstrators and political prisoners illegally detained including Yulia Tymoshenko."

"I believe that at this stage, all efforts should be focused on mediation through which we can ensure compliance and commitment of both sides. The aim must be none other than guaranteeing constructive dialogue and a peaceful channel through which Ukrainians can express their preference in a democratic manner", said José Ignacio Salafranca MEP, EPP Group Coordinator in the Foreign Affairs Committee.

"The current situation in Ukraine could cause either a state of emergency or even a civil war. I hope that there's still potential for a political and peaceful solution but for this we need real dialogue and a substantive change in President Yanukovych’s position. Moreover, we need real amnesty, not a fake effort, and we need mediation by the EU because both sides do not seem to trust each other. We also need to call on the President to stop all acts of violence, to allow for the constitution to be amended and new elections to be held, which will hopefully bring new parliamentary order in Ukraine", said Jacek Saryusz-Wolski MEP, Vice-Chairman of the EP Delegation to the Euronest Parliamentary Assembly. "We should listen to our heads and act responsibly. Early elections would be an option. If a peaceful solution really becomes a reality we should guarantee financial help to Ukraine, particularly for its society and the youth", he concluded.

The Resolution calls for the establishment of a permanent ad hoc mission of the European Parliament in Ukraine.