Yanukovych calls on police to avoid using force against protestors

11:55, 27.11.2013 1 min read

Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych said that the law enforcement officials who are ensuring public order at protests organized by supporters of the European integration of Ukraine should not violate protesters' rights.

"They [the police] are fulfilling their duties. No doubt, there is a line here regarding the legality of this and violations of people's rights," Yanukovych said in an interview with Ukraine's television channels.

Yanukovych reiterated that the police should ensure the security of both protesters and people who live in the areas where the protests are held, adding that the police are to react to all violations of the law.

"No doubt, this issue is very important. There is definitely no intention to harm anyone," Yanukovych said.

"It's very important to avoid the use of force and violations of the law," the president said, adding that he does not support "EuroMaidans [protest actions in the Square] because not all important issues can be resolved in this way."