WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House says it’s “extremely concerned” by the deteriorating situation in southern Ukraine.
The U.S. and Europe have been focused on eastern Ukraine, near Russia, where pro-Russian separatists have been occupying buildings for weeks. But the unrest has spread to Ukraine’s southern port of Odessa, where Ukraine’s government is seeking to re-establish control.
White House spokesman Jay Carney says the possible loss of Odessa underscores the need for an immediate de-escalation to the crisis. He’s suggesting Russia still needs to follow through with its part of a diplomatic deal to de-escalate.
Riots in Odessa led to 46 deaths Friday when a government building was set on fire. Carney says Ukrainian authorities should launch a full investigation. He says the U.S. mourns with Ukrainians the heartbreaking loss of life.
Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
