Biden expresses U.S. ‘concern’ about violence in Kiev

WASHINGTON – Vice President Joe Biden called Ukraine’s president Tuesday to express “grave concern” about violent clashes in the capital of Kiev.

Biden called on President Viktor Yanukovych to pull back government forces and exercise maximum restraint, according to the White House.

The White House said Biden made clear that while the United States condemns violence by all parties, the government bears “special responsibility to de-escalate the situation.”

Biden has spoken frequently with Yanukovych during the standoff between the government and protesters.

Associated Press