UEFA condemns violent clashes between Russian, Polish fans

PanARMENIAN.Net - UEFA has condemned the violence which developed before and after Poland's Euro 2012 match against Russia on Tuesday, June 12 but it remains unclear whether either team will face any sanctions, according to The Guardian.

Trouble flared after a march by thousands of Russia supporters came under attack, while visiting fans inside the stadium also unfurled a giant banner that read "This is Russia" – something that could be seen as a taunt about the decades of Moscow's control over Poland during the cold war.

Fighting led to 184 arrests and, according to reports, at least 24 injuries. During the most violent skirmishes near the stadium, riot police fired tear gas and rubber bullets.

UEFA said in a statement: "UEFA condemns the isolated incidents that occurred yesterday in Warsaw prior to and after the Poland-Russia match, when some groups of known troublemakers pelted the police with missiles and attacked fans irrespective of the team they were supporting. "Those arrested and charged will have to be dealt with by the relevant authorities. UEFA's philosophy is to create a welcoming environment coupled with a low-profile approach to policing. The focus should be on facilitating the enjoyment of the matches by genuine football fans and isolating the tiny percentage of troublemakers.”