Ukraine’s president takes sick leave as calls grow for his resignation

KYIV, Ukraine – Ukraine’s embattled president Viktor Yanukovych is taking sick leave as the country’s political crisis continues without signs of resolution.

A statement on the presidential website Thursday said Yanukovych is on sick leave due to an acute respiratory illness and high fever. There was no indication of how long he might be on leave or whether he would be able to do any work.

Yanukovych is under pressure after two months of major protests seeking his resignation, early elections and other demands.

In one of a series of moves aiming at resolving the crisis, the parliament this week voted for the repeal of harsh anti-protest laws.

Yanukovych must formally sign that repeal. He also has accepted the resignation of his prime minister. But protesters say the moves are insufficient.