EU to consider all options of response to situation in Ukraine - Ashton

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission Catherine Ashton has said that all options for responding to the situation in Ukraine, including restrictive measures, will be explored at a meeting of the EU's concerned committee, reads a statement released by her spokesperson in Brussels on Wednesday.

"The High Representative has called for an extraordinary meeting this morning of the Political and Security Committee of the European Union. All possible options will be explored, including restrictive measures against those responsible for repression and human rights violations," reads the document.

In addition, Ashton, in light of the tragic deterioration of the situation in Ukraine, "calls upon all responsible immediately to cease violence."

"She urges the authorities and all political forces to assume their responsibility and seek a prompt de-escalation, resuming a genuine political process," reads the statement.

The statement also notes that the EU will continue to stay in close contact with all sides in Ukraine, and with the international community.