In an address to the nation early Feb. 19, an embattled and defiant President Viktor Yanukovych blamed opposition leaders for the latest violence around the country, urging them to "distance themselves from radical forces."
“They crossed the limits when they called people to arms. And it is a blatant violation of the law. I have some advisors who try to persuade me to the use of force. But I always thought the use of force as a wrong approach,” he said.
Yanukovych continued: “Therefore, I once again urge the leaders of the opposition, who argue that they too seek a peaceful settlement immediately disassociate themselves from the radical forces that provoke bloodshed and clashes with law enforcement.”
