COPENHAGEN, 22 January 2014 – OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President Ranko Krivokapic today issued the following statement on the situation in Ukraine:

"I deplore the loss of life that occurred during today's clashes in Kyiv. These deaths represent a dangerous escalation in the unrest that has gripped Ukraine in recent weeks and should convince the government and the opposition -- more than any outside calls can -- that constructive dialogue is essential.

"The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly stands ready to be of assistance in any way agreed upon by both sides to help bridge differences. We also repeat our call for both police and protesters to exercise restraint and refrain from violence and provocation. The government now has a responsibility to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into how these deaths occurred. It must also rely on the tools of democracy to meet the current challenge."