BRUSSELS: The European Union on Friday activated a mechanism to evacuate its citizens from Yemen and called for an “immediate ceasefire” as the country teeters towards civil war, foreign affairs chief Catherine Ashton said.

“I am following the situation in Yemen very closely and with the utmost concern. The escalation of violence must stop immediately. I call for an immediate ceasefire and on all sides to exercise the maximum restraint,” Ashton said in a statement.

“I deplore the loss of so many lives and that so many have been injured. I appeal to all sides to protect civilians. I have urged repeatedly President (Ali Abdullah) Saleh to listen to the demands of the Yemeni people and transfer power. The only answer to the current situation is an immediate and genuine commitment to a peaceful and orderly transition,” Ashton said.

“In agreement with the presidency, I have activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (MIC) to help facilitate the evacuation of EU citizens who wish to leave,” she said, adding that the EU was “constantly evaluating the situation and recommending action on all fronts.” European countries including Britain and France have urged their citizens to flee Yemen amid escalating violence.

Saleh was wounded on Friday along with his premier and other officials when shells fired by dissident tribesmen smashed into the presidential palace.

Saleh, who has been in power in Sanaa since 1978, has faced nationwide protests against his rule for the past four months.

More than 200 demonstrators have been killed since the protests erupted, according to an AFP tally based on reports from medics.