24/02/2014 17:53
Ukraine arrest warrant for fugitive Viktor Yanukovych
Ukraine has issued an arrest warrant for fugitive ousted President Viktor Yanukovych, the BBC reported, citing the interior minister.
Arsen Avakov said on Facebook that a criminal case had been opened against Mr Yanukovych and other officials over "mass murder of peaceful citizens."
MPs voted to remove Mr Yanukovych on Saturday after months of deadly protest sparked by his rejection of an EU deal in favour of closer ties with Russia.
Russia's PM has said he doubts the legitimacy of Ukraine's new leaders.
"We do not understand what is going on there. There is a real threat to our interests and to the lives of our citizens," Russian media quoted Dmitry Medvedev as saying.
"There are big doubts about the legitimacy of a whole series of organs of power that are now functioning there."
Russia, furious at the loss of its political ally, has already accused the opposition of seizing power, and has recalled its ambassador for consultation.
Newly appointed interim President Olexander Turchynov has said Ukraine wants to establish relations with Russia on an "equal and good-neighbourly footing that recognises and takes into account Ukraine's European choice."
Parliament has until Tuesday to form a new unity government.