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| Massive rally in Kiev As EU suspends talks with Ukraine |
| 2013-12-16 |
| An estimated 200,000 pro-EU protesters have gathered on Kiev's Independence Square, as protesters continue demonstrations against President Viktor Yanukovych's rejection of an association accord with the European Union in favor of closer ties with Russia. Senator John McCain addressed the opposition rally, telling protesters that "Ukraine will make Europe better and Europe will make Ukraine better." McCain told the cheering crowd, "America stands with you. We are here because your peaceful process and peaceful protest is inspiring your country and inspiring the world. We are here to support your just cause -- the sovereign right of Ukraine to determine its own destiny freely and independently. And the destiny you seek lies in Europe." McCain who visited the rally together with Senator Chris Murphy had earlier met with opposition leaders and protesters. Pro-EU demonstrators have been holding nearly four weeks of daily protests at Independence Square against Yanukovych's decision to back off from the association and not sign free trade accords with the EU which have been under negotiation for years. The European Union said on December 15 it was suspending talks with Ukraine on the agreements, saying there was a growing disparity between the Ukrainian government's words and deeds. As the massive opposition protest was occuring on Independence Square, an estimated 15,000 protesters gathered a kilometer away to support Yanukovych's decision. Yanukovych is expected on December 17 in Moscow for talks with President Vladimir Putin. |
| Posted by:ryuge |
| #1 McCain should have his passport revoked. |
| Posted by: Ebbang Uluque6305 2013-12-16 15:31 |