On phone, Biden urges President Yanukovich to exercise ‘maximum restraint’

Posted at 7:02 pm on February 18, 2014 by Brett T.

Vice President Joe Biden called Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovich Tuesday to urge the government to use maximum restraint in its clashes with protesters who are occupying the streets of Kiev.

Biden calls Pres of Ukraine to ask him to stand down. Did Obama have something more important to do??#tcot
— Ann Marie (@USA4everGirl) February 18, 2014

Why is Biden making "the calls" with what going on in Ukraine? Stakes high. True that Obama at a movie? Has he ever been "present"?
— catherine annette (@anantucketlady) February 18, 2014

.@BretBaier on .@SpecialReport just reported Biden called #Ukraine prez. Obama's at a movie. No. Really. He's LITERALLY at a movie. #screwu
— Annie (@bloodless_coup) February 18, 2014

That’s right; tonight is the White House’s gala screening of “Monuments Men,” with the stars in attendance.

WH says Biden today called Ukrainian Prez Viktor Yanukovych to express "grave concern" regarding the crisis on the streets of Kyiv
— lesley clark (@lesleyclark) February 18, 2014

As per the White House, VP Biden called Ukrainian president Yanukovych, requested he pull back govt forces and exercise maximum restraint
— Alexander Panetta (@Alex_Panetta) February 18, 2014

Biden called #Ukraine's President Yanukovich, urging him to "pull back government forces and to exercise maximum restraint." #euromaidan
— Kirit Radia (@KiritRadia) February 18, 2014

Biden also condemned violence on both sides, but said "the government bears special responsibility to de-escalate the situation" #euromaidan
— Kirit Radia (@KiritRadia) February 18, 2014

Nineteen people have been reported killed so far in the clash between protesters and government forces.