WASHINGTON — A day after President Obama warned the Ukrainian government of unspecified “consequences” if it doesn’t stop the bloodshed in Kiev, 70 more people have died.
Speaking at a summit in Mexico Wednesday, Obama offered his toughest language yet on Ukraine, in terms that evoked his famous “red line” in Syria.
“We’re going to be watching closely, and we expect the Ukrainian government to show restraint, to not resort to violence in dealing with peaceful protesters,” Obama said.
“We’ve also said we expect peaceful protesters to remain peaceful,” he continued, before warning: “There will be consequences if people step over the line.”
Thursday, after at least 70 protesters were killed in Kiev’s Independence Square, according to medical personnel, the US didn’t appear to have an immediate plan to end the carnage.
White House spokesman Josh Earnest expressed outrage, saying, “Basic human rights that we hold so dear in this country are not being respected in that country.”
Vice President Joe Biden phoned Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, whom the White House has urged to withdraw forces. Obama spoke to German Chancellor Angela Merkel to coordinate a response.
One expert cautioned the president against empty threats.
“I’m a little concerned that if we are not prepared to see consequences through, then we need to be very careful of our word choice here. We don’t want to see a red line,” Heather Conley, who directs the Europe program at the Center for Strategic & International Studies, told The Post, referring to Obama’s comments.
European Union ministers agreed Thursday to impose visa restrictions and asset freezes on Ukrainian figures.