EU official meets with Ukrainian stakeholders after president is impeached

KIEV, Ukraine, Feb. 24 (UPI) -- EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton traveled to Kiev Monday for meetings with Ukrainian politicians and leaders of the opposition as the government transitions following the impeachment of President Viktor Yanukovych.

In a press release issued Sunday, Ashton's office revealed that the EU senior official planned to meet with "key stakeholders and discuss the support of the European Union for a lasting solution to the political crisis and measures to stabilise the economic situation."

Spokesperson Maja Kocijancic posted photos to Twitter of Ashton's Monday meetings with Ukrainian politicians and opposition leaders.

Euromaidan demonstrations began in Kiev in November 2013 after then-President Viktor Yanukovych announced Ukraine would not join the EU, a move that was seen as bowing to pressure from Russia and thwarting Ukraine's attempt to advance its economy. Protests continued for months despite the freezing temperatures and threat of violence. Protesters at Euromaidan rallies, led by the government opposition parties, also demanded constitutional reform, a more balanced government power structure, and the removal of the president.

On Saturday, Ukraine's parliament voted to remove Yanukovych from the presidency. An arrest warrant was issued for the president and others for their involvement in "mass killings of civilians" at the Euromaidan protests.

[European Union]