Ukrainian Ombudsperson on the current situation
- Details
- 20.02.2014
Statement by the Ukrainian Ombudsperson regarding the current situation.
"A horrible tragedy is unfolding in the streets of Kyiv and other cities of Ukraine these days."
"As of this moment we know of about fifty deceased people, but there is also information that there are many more victims.
Hundreds have been hospitalized.
Hundreds have been hospitalized.
Today I engaged in personal monitoring of Kyiv-based hospitals. They are overflowing. They host dozens with wounds from firearms.
In all actuality, the streets of the Ukrainian capital are witnessing warfare.
I am appealing to everyone, who is part of these events. No political crisis can be an excuse for losing the life of even one person. No political standoff is worth the lives, injuries and health of hundreds of Ukrainian citizens.
No international standard allows law enforcers to use lethal force to stop civic unrest. On the contrary, international documents call to minimize harm that may come from application of force. Acting contrary to such principles is a crime.
I understand that the situation has hit a dead end. At the same time, you cannot build a state based on blood.
Regardless of the developments, any conflict has to be solved through negotiations, through peaceful means, including political compromise, mutual concessions from both sides.
Accordingly, I urge, I ask to immediately stop bloodshed on the streets of Kyiv and other cities of Ukraine to save people's lives. It is never too late to stop shots so as to save people's lives and people's destinies."
Unofficial translation of the statement presented at the official portal of the Ombudsperson.
This portal is run by UNDP in Ukraine with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark.
