Ukraine Crisis: EU Signs Association Deal

EU leaders have signed an agreement on closer relations with  Ukraine , in a show of support following Russia's annexation of Crimea

The EU signed the deal hours after announcing more targeted sanctions , Pro Moscow leader Viktor Yanikovych's abandonment of the deal in November had led to deadly protests , his removal and Russia taking over Crimea

On Friday Russia's upper house unanimously approved the treaty on Crimea joining the Russian Federation

'Rule of Law'

The EU association agreement is designed to give Ukraine's interim leadership under PM Arsenly Yatsenyuk economicand political support

EU Preisident Herman Van Rompuz said the accord "recognises the aspirations of the people of Ukraine to live in a country goverened by values by Democracy and the rule of Law" 

Mr. Yatsenyuk said " I strongly believe the EU will speak with one single strong voice protecting Ukraine" he added that "the best way to contain Russia is to impose real economic leverage