Ukraine's supreme court is hearing an appeal aimed at resolving a presidential election crisis that threatens to break the country apart.
The high court is considering a challenge by Western-leaning opposition candidate Victor Yushchenko to the results of the November 21st run-off election, because of alleged massive voter fraud. The proceedings could last for several days.
The election commission announced unofficially last week that pro-Moscow Prime Minister Victor Yanukovych narrowly won the vote. The announcement sparked massive opposition protests, and a demand for a new vote.
The political crisis deepened Sunday when some pro-Russia regions of Ukraine said they would hold a referendum on autonomy if Mr. Yanukovych does not become president.
European Union foreign policy chief Javier Solana, and NATO Secretary-General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer said today (Monday)( in Brussels) it is very important to maintain a unified Ukraine.
Information for this report is provided by AFP and Reuters.