"I have personally asked Secretary Andriy Klyuyev to prevent provocations, confrontation and use of excessive force in Maidan, with supporters of the governing Party of Regions actively starting to gather close by in significant numbers," said Minister Linkevičius.
Minister met with Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council Andriy Klyuyev, Minister of Foreign Affairs Leonid Kozhara, representatives of the business community and EU and US ambassadors. Further meetings with representatives of the government, the opposition and society are scheduled as well.
"We are meeting representatives of the government, business, society and opposition, aiming to facilitate communication. Ensuring dialogue and avoiding deeper confrontation and outbursts of violence is absolutely essential," noted Minister Linkevičius.
During the meetings with the representatives of the Ukrainian government Minister Linkevičius emphasised that the government needs to show sincere and specific efforts that adequately respond to the Maidan demands, preventing the deterioration of the situation.
"It is crucial to avoid radicalisation of various positions and to find a solution. The Association Agreement is a solution, not the cause of the economic and political problems Ukraine faces today. Clarity in the intentions of the Ukrainian government would help tremendously," emphasised Minister Linkevičius.
The visit is part of efforts to ensure the continuous presence of high ranking EU representatives following the visit of the EU High Representative Catherine Ashton on December 10–11.
"Europe wants to see a strong, democratic and prosperous Ukraine and is prepared to sign an agreement which would help to achieve these goals. Reforms and modernisation should bring back the trust by countries and markets in the future of Ukraine," emphasised Minister Linkevičius.
