EP suggests targeted sanctions against Ukraine

Anti-government protesters march on the street in Kiev February 6, 2014. The parties in Ukraine's deadlocked parliament agreed on Thursday to try to draft a joint bill on constitutional amendments that could be put to a vote as early as next week, the speaker said. [Photo/Agencies]

BRUSSELS -- The European Parliament (EP) on Thursday adopted a non-binding resolution in Strasburg, calling for targeted sanctions against Ukraine.

The resolution suggested the European Union (EU) and its member states should prepare targeted sanctions, such as travel ban and freezing the EU assets of those responsible for violence against Ukrainian protesters.

The sanctions should target on "Ukrainian officials, legislators and oligarchs personally responsible for the attacks on and deaths of protesters," said the resolution.

It also called for EU financial support for Ukraine and the establishment of a permanent ad hoc mission of the EP in Ukraine.

"I believe that at this stage, all efforts should be focused on mediation through which we can ensure compliance and commitment of both sides," said MEP Jose Ignacio Salafranca, European People's Party (EPP) Group Coordinator in the Foreign Affairs Committee.

"The aim must be none other than guaranteeing constructive dialogue and a peaceful channel through which Ukrainians can express their preference in a democratic manner," said Salafranca.

Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych pledged Thursday to do his best to prevent the escalation of the ongoing political tensions in the East European country, the presidential press service reported.

During talks with Victoria Nuland, US assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs, Yanukovych reiterated his commitment to resolve the political crisis in Ukraine through peaceful negotiations and political dialogue.

"Only through dialogue and compromise is it possible to bring the country out of the political crisis," Yanukovych was quoted by his press service as saying.

Yanukovych also expressed his willingness to continue the dialogue with the opposition and promised to take measures to accelerate the release of demonstrators detained during anti-government protests.

The rallies in Ukraine began last November over the government' s decision to put on hold an association agreement with the EU.

The demonstrations turned violent on January 19, when protesters attacked police with sticks, fireworks and petrol bombs. At least four demonstrators were killed during the unrest and hundreds of others, including police officers, were injured.