Levin Joint Statement on Ukraine Protests

Statement

U.S. Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI) today joined with his fellow Co-Chairs of the Congressional Ukrainian Caucus, Representatives Jim Gerlach (R-PA) and Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), in issuing the following statement regarding the protests in Kyiv's Independence Square and throughout Ukraine:

As the Co-Chairs of the Congressional Ukrainian Caucus, we denounce the violent attacks by Ukrainian government authorities against peaceful demonstrators and journalists in Kyiv and other parts of the country. President Yanukovych and the Government of Ukraine must immediately cease the use of force to intimidate citizens and the media and suppress civil discourse.

The Ukrainian people have the fundamental right to peaceably assemble and express their opinions on the future of their country -- and it is the responsibility of the Government of Ukraine to respect and protect these universal rights and freedoms.

We continue to support the Ukrainian people's aspirations for democratic reform and European integration. We also remain committed to our belief that signing an Association Agreement with the European Union provides Ukraine the best opportunity to achieve prosperity, liberty and security for all of its citizens.

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