Ukraine’s president orders ‘European custody standards’ for Tymoshenko

Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych said on Monday he had ordered that conditions for jailed ex-prime minister Yulia Tymoshenko be maintained “at a European level.” “Of late I have heard plenty of critical remarks from former prime minister Tymoshenko’s lawyers about her prison conditions,” he said. “I have instructed all agencies concerned to ensure all the necessary conditions at a European level.” Yanukovych said he was referring to medical examinations, medical treatment and holding conditions for Tymoshenko, but did not define “European.” Tymoshenko’s lawyers said recently her health condition had worsened - she could just barely walk because of spine trouble, and urged medical assistance for their client outside of the prison where she is being held. Prison doctors however said her situation was not grave enough and medical treatment could continue “in house.” Tymoshenko was sentenced in October to seven years behind bars for abuse of office over a gas deal she cut with Russia in 2009, a verdict internationally condemned as politically motivated.