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Demonstrations in Kiev are calming down following two significant events on January 28th. Prime Minister Mykola Azarov's resignation and President Viktor Yanukovych's repeal of the controversial anti-protest laws have contributed to reducing violence and easing tensions. While these concessions have led to a temporary calm, they may embolden opposition groups. The U.S. is advised to remain neutral and observe the situation, as supporting either side could impact human rights values and the integrity of international treaties.
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Demonstrations Tapering • Demonstrations in Kiev are calming down. • Two events on January 28th have contributed to the ease of tensions. • Prime Minister MykolaAzarov resigned. • President Viktor Yanukovych repealed the anti-protest laws from January 16th. • Concessions have ended the violence but emboldened the opposition.
Demonstrations Tapering • The U.S. should not take any sides at this point, but continue to observe the situation. • Supporting Yanukovych would go against U.S. value of human rights. • Supporting the opposition would signal regime change and may breach the 1994 NPT treaty. • Continuing to observe the situation allows the Ukrainian government more time to negotiate with the EU.