Ukraine crisis sparks worries in Southeast Europe

Ukraine crisis sparks worries in Southeast Europe

Citizens in Southeast Europe are concerned about family members in Ukraine as tension increases.

Pro-Ukrainian supporters hold a giant flag as pro-Russian activists throw tear gas on them during a rally in the eastern Ukrainian city of Donetsk on March 13th. Many in Southeast Europe are concerned for relatives in Ukraine. [AFP]

Citizens and residents of Southeast European countries are closely watching the Ukraine crisis, looking for news about friends and relatives in the Crimea peninsula, and they remain deeply concerned about Russian intervention in the region.

Although many are in contact with friends and family, the information coming from the region on Russia's border seems chaotic and invalid, Southeast European residents said.

Ukraine has been in turmoil ever since a government crackdown against pro-western rallies in Kiev turned violent, sparking widespread outrage and prompting deposed President Viktor Yanukovych to flee to Russia rather than face charges for the deaths of protesters.

Moscow refused to recognise the new pro-western government in Kiev and is supporting pro-Russian paramilitaries in Crimea, surrounding military bases and launching intimidating military manoeuvres off the Ukrainian coast.

The west urged Moscow to pull back its troops in Crimea and to stop support of local militias, but Russia refused to do so or to start diplomatic talks with the new government in Kiev. All the while, citizens fearful for their loved ones' safety can only watch and wait.

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