The White House has condemned the violence taking place in Kiev and urged all sides to refrain from further clashes. The White House's Press Secretary, Jay Carney said that Washington would consider sanctions against Ukraine if the situation there did not improve.

"Political dialogue to address the legitimate dialogue of the Ukrainian people is the necessary first step towards resolving this crisis. Next we need to see concrete steps taken by the government, now this increasing tension in Ukraine is a direct consequence of the government failing to acknowledge the legitimate grievances of its people. We urge the government of Ukraine to take steps that represent a better way forward, including repeal of the anti-democratic legislation signed into law in recent days, withdrawing the riot police from downtown Kiev, and beginning a dialogue with the political opposition. We, the United States will consider, continue to consider additional steps including sanctions in response to the use of violence," he said.