Ukraine’s embattled president Viktor Yanukovych has promised that some demonstrators arrested in the massive protests sweeping the capital will be released, part of a bid to defuse a political stand-off that is threatening his leadership.
Mr Yanukovych also vowed to renew talks with the European Union on concluding a much-awaited trade and political agreement, after his refusal to sign the deal last month prompted the biggest protests since 2004’s pro-democracy Orange Revolution, some drawing hundreds of thousands of people to Kiev’s streets.
Mr Yanukovych indicated he was still prepared to sign the deal at a summit in spring, but only if the EU can offer better financial terms.
“We want to achieve conditions which satisfy Ukraine, Ukrainian producers and the people.
“If we find understanding and if such compromises are reached, the signature will be put on paper, he said in a televised meeting with his three predecessors meant to find a solution to the stand off.
Three weeks of protests against Mr Yanukovych’s decision to align with Russia have grown larger and more vehement after police twice violently dispersed demonstrators.
Tensions escalated even further Monday when armed law enforcement troops stormed the office of the top opposition party, breaking glasses and smashing doors.
The opposition is demanding the release of the protesters who remain in jail and calling for the government to be replaced by one committed to European integration.
But some analysts were sceptical that Mr Yanukovych’s pro-EU talk was genuine.