MOSCOW, february 20. /ITAR-TASS/.  Russia considers the events in Ukraine to be attempted state coup or forcible seizure of power, Foreign Ministry spokesman Alexander Lukashevich said Thursday.

“There's no doubt, and today’s events prove it, that when rioters use firearms, it is a state coup attempt or forcible seizure of power,” the Russian diplomat said.

“We condemn the actions taken by radicals and extremists that bear major responsibility for violence and the bloodshed. The opposition, which was unable to implement the earlier reached agreements, assumes serious responsibility,” Lukashevich said.

“We demand the rioters’ leaders stop the bloodshed immediately and continue searching for peaceful solutions to the crisis without threats and ultimatums,” he said, adding “The situation should be settled within the constitutional framework.”

Sanctions against Ukraine can only aggravate the situation, Lukashevich said.