2014-07-25 19:05:00

U.S. accuses Russia of firing into Ukraine


(Vatican Radio) The United States has accused Russia of shelling Ukrainian military positions across its border, where Ukrainian government forces are fighting against pro-Russian separatists. The announcement came while Ukraine sought Friday to avoid a political crisis after the sudden resignation of its prime minister. 

Ukraine's President Petro Poroshenko urged Parliament to pass a vote of confidence in the government as the army is fighting Russia-backed rebels in the east. 

On Thursday, Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk walked out, berating Parliament for failing to accept legislation aimed at tackling an increasingly precarious energy situation and increasing funds for the army.

His decision came while parties quit the government coalition, forcing new elections for a Parliament that has not changed since before the toppling of pro-Russian president Viktor Yanukovych in February.

MOSCOW AGENTS

Current President Poroshenko supported the move, with some saying it would clear "Moscow agents" from the chamber.

Yet, concerns remained that Yatsenyuk's  resignation could complicate decision-making at a time when Ukraine struggles to fund a war with pro-Russian rebels and deals with the aftermath of the Malaysian Airlines plane crash that killed nearly 300 people.

It was also expected to further complicate an international investigation and the identification of those who died in the disaster. 

Dutch chief investigator Jan Tuinder expressed anger that access to the crash site in eastern Ukraine had been made difficult by armed separatists, who have been accused by the United States of  shooting down the plane last week.

“There are still some lunatics taking actions that is making it hard for us to get to the bodies, to get to the remains," Tuinder complained. "You call them terrorists. To me, they’re criminals. It’s very nearly the same.” 

U.S. ANGRY 

Adding to difficulties are reports that nearby fighting between the army and rebels have claimed at least a dozen other lives.

The United States also accused Russia of firing artillery from its side of the border targeting Ukrainian military forces. And Washington said Russia planned to provide separatists heavier and more powerful weapons, though Moscow denied any involvement in the conflict.  

Amid the chaos, prayers were said by priests and local residents at the crash site during a memorial service. More than 100 victims have now been brought to a military base in the Netherlands.   

They were met by relatives and applauding crowds with some throwing flowers at the many hearses. Most of those who died came from the Netherlands, which is leading an international investigation. Messages were seen for victims; one read: "You will be loved always. Love is stronger than hate. Peace."      

Listen to the report by Stefan Bos:

 

 








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