30/09/2011 12:56
This trial is a classic case of political lynching – Tymoshenko
Former Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko has denounced her trial over alleged abuse of office as a "political lynching," BBC reported.
The former Orange Revolution leader is accused of exceeding her authority while negotiating the agreement with Russia, which critics say was to Ukraine's disadvantage.
"This trial is a classic case of political lynching," said Mrs Tymoshenko in a fiery four-hour speech.
"No document has ever proved any guilt. They (the authorities) have falsified this entire affair."
Referring to the gas deal with Russia, Mrs Tymoshenko said: "I acted legally, effectively, in a correct manner of state. If the circumstances were the same today, I would act in the same way."
The court is due to reconvene on Friday.