Statement by the Press Secretary on Ukraine

The United States welcomes the agreement signed today between Ukrainian President Yanukovych and Opposition leaders.  The agreement, facilitated by Foreign Ministers Fabius, Sikorski, and Steinmeier and witnessed by Russia, is consistent with what we have advocated in calling for a de-escalation of the violence, constitutional change, a coalition government, and early elections.  We support the efforts of all those who negotiated this agreement, commend the courageous opposition leaders who recognized the need for compromise, and offer the support of the United States in its implementation.  Now, the focus must be on concrete action to implement this agreement, which we will be monitoring closely.
 
In this regard, we call for immediate implementation of the initial steps -- an end to the violence, amnesty and security normalization, and passage of the constitutional package in the Rada -- to provide space for the negotiations to begin on formation of a technocratic coalition government.  Respect for the right of peaceful protest –- including on the Maidan –- is essential.  As we have said, there must be accountability for those responsible for the violence and the casualties that have resulted since the crisis began, and we remain prepared to impose additional sanctions as necessary.  The United States stands with the Ukrainian people as they work to restore peace, security, and human dignity across the country and determine the future course of their nation.