Ukraine President urged to resign over EU pact

Ukraine's opposition leaders are demanding the resignation of President Viktor Yanukovych. The president is being criticized for shelving an agreement with the European Union in favor of closer ties with Russia.

The Ukraine government was originally intending to sign a deal that would pave the way for the country to join the European bloc. But President Yanukovych changed his course after Russia imposed restrictions on some of Ukraine's exports.

Protestors gathered in the Ukranian capital, Kiev, on Friday. Demonstrators held hands in a human chain to protest the government's decision.

Opposition leaders told a massive rally that they are committed to fighting against Russian pressure. They also said that the president betrayed the people. They pledged to urge the president to resign.

The government says it still aims to conclude the deal with the EU. But the country is expected to face challenges as Russia will likely impose further pressure.