Sergei Lavrov
© UnknownLavrov blasts the West for fueling the violence in Ukraine
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has described West's interpretation of freedom in Ukraine as "strange," accusing the EU of fueling anti-government protests.

"What does the inciting of street protests, which are growing increasingly violent, have to do with promoting democratic principles?" Lavrov asked a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference in Germany.

Lavrov slammed the European Union and the United States for failing to condemn those who seize buildings, attack police and use racist slogans in anti-government protests in Ukraine.
"Why do we not hear statements of condemnation toward those who seize government buildings, attack and burn police officers, and voice racist slogans? Why do senior European politicians de facto encourage such actions, while at home they swiftly and harshly act to stop any impingement on the letter of the law?" asked the Russian Foreign Minister.
Lavrov made the remarks in response to statements by European Council President Hermann van Rompuy, NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen and US Secretary of State John Kerry.

The European Council President had earlier said that Ukraine must be free to choose its own future.

Lavrov reacted by pointing out that Western politicians who support freedom of choice for Ukraine but say this should be a pro-European choice, have a strange interpretation of freedom.
"How would the European Union react if the Russian government openly supported street riots in London, Paris or Hamburg, and sent its ministers to these cities to encourage the protesters?" he asked.
The Ukraine political crisis is a major talking point at the Munich Security Conference.

US Secretary of State John Kerry, who is taking part at the event, has stressed Washington and EU support for anti-government protesters in Ukraine.