Minister for European Affairs, Paschal Donohoe TD, has called for democratic dialogue between the Ukrainian Government and Opposition so that an end can be brought to the horrific violence taking place there.
Minister Donohoe was discussing the escalating crisis in the Ukraine under Topical Issue Debate this evening (Thursday) in the Dail.
“The message that Ireland is sending to President Viktor Yanukovych and everyone involved is that democratic dialogue is needed to resolve the current impasse. The Ukrainian Government must ensure that this violence is brought to an end.
“Violence cannot be a solution to this or any situation. I witnessed first hand, during a recent trip to Kiev, the utmost strain and pressure on the people there.
“Earlier today, we had an opportunity to convey our concerns directly to the Ukrainian Ambassador when he met with a senior official at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Our message to the Ambassador was unequivocal, calling for utmost restraint, an immediate end to the violence and for serious talks between the Government and opposition to find a peaceful solution.
“The EU door has always been open to finding a way to work with the Ukraine. And that remains the case. The EU’s External Action Service is sending a delegation to Kiev today for urgent talks with the Government and Opposition figures. They will brief EU Member States on their contacts in the coming days. It is my hope that a resolution to this impasse can be found, sooner rather than later.”