Media release
12 December 2013
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ms Julie Bishop, has expressed concern about recent political developments in Ukraine.
Over past weeks, the people of Ukraine have gathered in protest against their government's decision to suspend preparations for the signing of an Association Agreement with the European Union.
Ms Bishop has joined many in the international community to deplore the Ukrainian Government's use of violence against peaceful protestors in Kyiv, which was disproportionate and excessive.
Ms Bishop has urged the Ukrainian authorities to exercise utmost restraint in regard to the protests; to ensure Ukraine's international commitments to the freedoms of assembly and expression are fully upheld; and to listen to the voices and aspirations of the Ukrainian people.