Ukraine, Ashton: “The violence and intimidation must be stopped”

The Rada passed the Amnesty Law, but asks for the occupied buildings to be cleared. High Representative Ashton: “Think about free and fair election.”

After the abrogation of the anti-protest laws that led to the wave of violence on the streets, the Ukraine parliament has passed the Amnesty Law, which will set free all the protesters jailed in the last two months. The passing happened overnight  after ane extraordinary session, with 232 votes in favour and 11 votes against.

It could be seen as a way to soothe tensions, yet it is already creating problems with the opposition, which has decided not to vote due to the conditions imposed by the party in power. The law will be in fact applied only when the protestors will have cleared off the building occupied lately.

In the meantime, EU High Representative Catherine Ashton, during her visit in Kiev, said “wherever it comes from, the sense of violence and intimidation, it must stop.” She also underlined the need for a real dialogue between authorities and opposition. Moreover, High Representative Ashton has highlighted the importance of the Amnesty Law, as well as the need for constitutional reforms, “and then, moving further forward, to think about forthcoming elections, free and fair elections, that will take place in the future and the importance of engagement of those who can help support that process.”

Ukraine continues to be a painful area for the relationships between Russia and Europe. Yesterday, achaa chancellor Merkel has phoned Russian President Putin to ask for his support in favour of a “productive dialogue” aimed at solving the political crisis. The invitation was followed by a note of the Kremlin, which defined as “unacceptable” any external interference on Ukrainian internal affairs.