Putin insists Poland responsible for Euro 2012 security
(MOSCOW) - Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday asked Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk to ensure security during the Euro 2012 championships after violence erupted between Polish and Russian fans.
"The Russian president expressed his concern over the situation with Russian fans in Euro 2012," and underscored that "organisers of international competitions bear responsibility for the security of foreign fans", his spokesman told Itar-Tass news agency.
Euro 2012 co-host Poland is facing action from UEFA after fireworks were set off and thrown during their Group A match with Russia, European football's governing body said.
UEFA said in an emailed statement that it was also taking steps against Russia for the same reason as well as for the display of "illicit banners" and after one supporter got on the pitch at Tuesday's match in Warsaw.
About 10 people were injured in the clashes between the rival fans.
UEFA earlier Wednesday said it had fined the Football Union of Russia 120,000 euros ($150,000, 96,000 pounds) and threatened it with a six-point deduction from its next European championship qualifying campaign if there were any repeat.
Russian fans lit and set off fireworks during the 4-1 win against the Czechs in Wroclaw, southwest Poland, while potentially inflammatory "Russian Empire" flags were seen in the stands.
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