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Two protesters shot to death in Ukraine

Protests began in November 2013 following Ukrainian President Yanukovych's announcement that Ukraine would not join the EU.

By JC Finley
Pro-EU demonstrators at a rally in Kiev, Ukraine on November 26, 2013. (CC/Ivan Bandura)
1 of 2 | Pro-EU demonstrators at a rally in Kiev, Ukraine on November 26, 2013. (CC/Ivan Bandura)

Two protesters were shot to death in Kiev on Wednesday during clashes with police forces, the first reported deaths since pro-EU rallies began in November 2013.

The circumstances of the deaths are under investigation.

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In response to the deadly violence, the Ukrainian presidential press service reported that President Viktor Yanukovych was meeting Wednesday with leaders of the opposition parliamentary factions to discuss the political crisis. Yanukovych was joined at the meeting with National Security and Defense Council Secretary Andriy Kliuyev, UDAR Party leader Vitali Klitschko, Batkivschyna faction leader Arseniy Yatseniuk, and Svoboda Party leader Oleh Tiahnybok.

The U.S. Department of State condemned the violence and urged all parties to "de-escalate the situation" and "engage in real dialogue."

"We urge the Government of Ukraine to take steps that represent a better way forward for Ukraine, including repeal of the anti-democratic legislation and beginning a national dialogue with the political opposition. The United States has already revoked visas of several people responsible for violence, and will continue to consider additional steps in response to the use of violence by any actors."

While the Ukrainian president met with opposition leaders, violent standoffs in the streets continued, prompting businesses and schools in the area to close. Riot police remain on guard, with authorization to use water cannons against unruly protesters.

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Opposition demonstrators cited several recent governmental actions that had angered them, namely the passage of legislation restricting public assembly, prohibiting a protest from marching past Parliament, and mass-text-messaging cell phones that were geo-located to an unruly protest site with the message: "Dear subscriber, you are registered as a participant in a mass disturbance."

More than 1,400 people were injured in clashes with security forces between Monday and Tuesday. Opposition leaders have objected to the use of violence, whether orchestrated by the government or driven by an opposition faction comprised of nationalist groups who believe violent rebellion may advance their cause.

Protests began in November 2013 following Ukrainian President Yanukovych's announcement that Ukraine would not join the EU. Pro-EU rallies have continued since November, with protesters voicing opposition to Ukraine's economic ties to Russia.

[Interfax Ukraine News Agency] [State Department] [New York Times]

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