NATO calls on Ukraine government and opposition to engage in dialogue

NATO foreign ministers called Tuesday on the Ukraine government and opposition to open a dialogue after President Viktor Yanukovych ditched an EU association pact, sparking violent street protests.

“We condemn the use of excessive force against peaceful demonstrators in Ukraine,” the declaration said.

“We call on all parties to refrain from provocations and violence”.

“We urge the government and the opposition to engage in dialogue and launch a reform process,” it added.