Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych insists that the so-called problem of former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko is fully within the judicial bodies' purview, and that presidential powers are not enough in this case.
“My powers and my viewpoint are not enough. It’s a court that has to give an answer,” Yanukovych said in an interview with Ukrainian TV channels, stressing that Tymoshenko should also be interested in this.
Ukraine and its taxpayers are paying for “Tymoshenko’s gas debts” today, he said.
“A court, which she is evading and thus obstructing justice, is supposed to give an answer to these questions. What does the EU have to do with this? Is the EU a court?” he said.
Yanukovych said he has heard different opinions regarding Tymoshenko from Ukrainian citizens, but all agree that a court judgment is needed for resolving the issue of the ex-prime minister.
“Whatever a court judgment is, Ukraine pays $405 million today,” Yanukovych said, adding that the Ukrainian government has been constantly looking for a way out of this situation.
If a court finds Tymoshenko guilty, Ukrainian law entitles her to pay for the damage caused and seek a pardon.
“Ukrainian law allows for this,” he added.
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