Ukraine govt announces ‘anti-terrorist’ ops

Ukraine’s security service on Wednesday announced a nationwide ‘anti-terrorist’ operation in response to deadly anti-government protests that have left at least 26 dead. ‘The National Security Service and Ukrainian Anti-Terrorist Centre have taken the decision to conduct an anti-terrorist operation across the territory of Ukraine,’ security agency head Oleksandr Yakimenko said in a statement. Embattled President Viktor Yanukovych was informed of the operation that will see security agencies work with the ministry of defence to strengthen state borders and maintain public order, the statement said. ‘Radical and extremist groups are posing a real threat to the lives of millions of Ukrainians with their actions,’ Yakimenko said.