Western powers called for calm in Bangladesh on Monday after long-ruling leader Sheikh Hasina fled, while the United States praised the military for forming an interim government rather than cracking down on protesters.
Political transition in Bangladesh is challenging without addressing violence: US expert warns
Sheikh Hasina, who has enjoyed particularly close ties to regional power India, enjoyed a largely cooperative relationship with the West during her 15 years in power, but has faced increasing criticism for her authoritarian course.
The United States called on all sides in Bangladesh to “refrain from further violence” as bullet-riddled bodies lay strewn across hospital floors and looting took place in the capital, Dhaka.
“Too many lives have been lost in recent weeks and we urge calm and restraint in the days ahead,” State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters.
