The Secretary-General spoke today with the President of Ukraine, H.E. Mr. Viktor Yanukovych.

He informed the President that he has continued to follow the situation in Ukraine closely and shared his grave concern about recent developments in the country.

The Secretary-General recalled his statement of 20 January, calling for meaningful, sustained and inclusive dialogue by all parties in order to find a solution to the crisis and prevent further bloodshed. He encouraged the President to lead the way to a constructive dialogue process to help resolve the crisis in his country peacefully and through compromise.

The Secretary-General assured the President that the United Nations stood by Ukraine and its people.