“We believe that the future of Ukraine lies in Europe. We’ve met with government officials and with members of the opposition,” McCain told reporters. “I look forward to visiting the square tomorrow and I am proud of what the people of Ukraine are doing, so they can restore democracy to their country.”
During the meeting with opposition leaders – former boxing champion Vitaly Klitschko, former economy minister Arseny Yatsenyuk and far right nationalist Oleh Tyahnybog – McCain was asked for more than just moral support from the US – referring to the possible introduction of sanctions, Unian news agency reported.
On Friday, US Democratic and Republican senators introduced a resolution that asks the US to consider the use of sanctions against Ukraine if violence against protesters continues to take place. The resolution urges a “peaceful and democratic conclusion” to the demonstrations. McCain has said that he believes the resolution will be adopted swiftly and unanimously by Washington, Ukrainian Pravda quoted him as saying.
During the visit to Kiev, the US Senator confirmed Washington’s position: “We want a peaceful resolution, which can be achieved through dialogue and at the same time make sure that every effort is made, make sure Ukraine is aligned with Europe.”
McCain also met with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Leonid Kozhara.
International players have been involved in the demonstrations from the start; the pro-EU protests in Kiev have received visits from western politicians who have condemned Ukrainian authorities for their actions.
Earlier this week, US Assistant Secretary of State Victoria Nuland handed out snacks to protesters on Kiev’s Independence Square.
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