‘This is anarchy, terror and chaos:’ Yanukovych’s main points

ROSTOV-ON-DON, Russia – Deposed Ukrainian president Viktor Yanukovych insisted Friday, February 28, in his first public appearance since fleeing to Russia that he had not been overthrown and would continue to fight for the future of Ukraine.

He denounced the new leaders of Ukraine as neo-fascists who had created chaos but also admitted President Vladimir Putin had yet to meet him and he was perplexed by the Russian strongman’s uncharacteristic silence.

ON WHY HE LEFT UKRAINE

“I have not been overthrown by anyone, I was compelled to leave Ukraine due to an immediate threat to my life and the lives of those close to me.

“When I was still in Kiev, I was shot at from automatic fire. The car that was sheltering me was practically shot at from all sides.

“I intend to continue the fight for the future of Ukraine against those who try to saddle it with fear and terror.”

ON THE NEW AUTHORITIES IN KIEV

“Power in Ukraine has been taken by nationalist, pro-fascist young people who represent the absolute minority of people in Ukraine.”

“This is anarchy, terror and chaos,” he added.

ON HOW HE ESCAPED TO RUSSIA

“I got into Russia thanks to patriotically-minded officers, I would say it like that, who fulfilled their duty and helped me save my life.”

“I want to say, above all, that I have not fled anywhere.”

ON WHEN HE MIGHT COME BACK TO UKRAINE

“I will return to Ukraine once all the conditions are observed for my security and the security of my family.”

ON UKRAINE’S SNAP MAY 25 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS

“I think that they are illegal and I am not going to take part in them.”

ON WHO IS TO BLAME

“I am going to lay the blame on those who brought our country to this crisis, I would say to chaos and catastrophe.”

“Those who are guilty are those came to power (and)representatives of the West and the United States. They bear responsibility in front of the Ukrainian people.”

APOLOGIES TO UKRAINIAN PEOPLE

“I am ashamed. I want to say I apologize to the Ukrainian people for what happened in Ukraine and that I did not have the strength to keep stability.”

ON WHERE HE IS STAYING NOW

“I am in Rostov-on-Don because my old friend lives here, not far from Rostov. I cam to him here to find a temporary sanctuary during this time.”

ON VLADIMIR PUTIN’S REACTION

“Knowing the character of Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, I am surprised that he is keeping silent in such a reserved way. This is a question.”

“I have not met Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin. I spoke to him by telephone after arriving on Russian territory. We agreed that once the Russian president has the chance to meet me then this meeting will take place.”

ON STANDOFF IN CRIMEA

“I consider that what is happening in Crimea is an absolutely natural reaction to the bandit-like takeover that happened in Kiev.”

“I ask Crimeans not to allow bloodshed.”

MESSAGE TO NEW AUTHORITIES

“Come to your senses and stop this excess. You will bear responsibility for this. The end is already clear. The people of Ukraine will never agree to live together with you.

“Go away and don’t allow further anarchy.”

MESSAGE TO PEOPLE OF UKRAINE

“I will do everything I can until the end of my life to be with the people of Ukraine. But not with those bastards or nationalists. The Ukrainian people do not exist for the current authorities, they are just wood-shavings for them.

“Truth will come for sure. And it will triumph.” – Rappler.com