Ashton :The doors to dialogue and a political solution have to be kept open

Statement by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton on efforts to support a political solution to the crisis in Ukraine.

The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission issued the following statement today:

“I continue to follow the situation in Kyiv very closely. I am convinced that, in light of the violent escalation of events, the European Union has to reinforce the efforts in support of the political solution to the current crisis.

In this respect all diplomatic means have been engaged. Commissioner Štefan Füle will travel to Kyiv tomorrow on my behalf and on behalf of President Barroso. I am pleased that a delegation of the European Parliament will travel to Ukraine early next week. I will be going to Kyiv myself next week to meet with President Yanukovych as well as opposition leaders.

It is imperative to avoid further worsening of the situation and to pave the way for a genuine dialogue between the authorities, the opposition and civil society. Only an inclusive dialogue offers a viable way forward. The doors to dialogue and a political solution have to be kept open.”