Arrest warrant issued for Ukraine's former president over ‘mass murder’

It was reported that fugitive ousted President Viktor Yanukovych has been charged over 'mass murder of peaceful citizens'.

16:00 24 February 2014

The interim interior minister has confirmed that Viktor Yanukovych – the ousted former leader and subsequent fugitive - alongside other officials have been formally charged over “mass murder of peaceful citizens.”

Arsen Avakov announced on Facebook that a criminal case has been opened and that warrant of arrest has been issued. This news came after Mr Yanukovych was removed from the office following months of protests that led to the death of dozens of citizens.

In his statement Mr Avakov said an "official case for the mass murder of peaceful citizens has been opened", and that Mr Yanukovych and others "have been declared wanted".

Losing its political ally, Russia has strongly condemned the MP’s action and has recalled its ambassador for consultation.

Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that the opposition "had in effect seized power in Kiev, refused to disarm and continued to place its bets on violence".

Meanwhile, parliament has until Tuesday to form a new unity government. Newly appointed interim President Olexander Turchynov said that Ukgraine wants to establish relations with Russia on an "equal and good-neighbourly footing that recognises and takes into account Ukraine's European choice".