(Vatican Radio) Russia has begun transferring billions of dollars to Ukraine as part
of a controversial economic deal that critics say is aimed at re-establishing the
Soviet Union, and amid concerns over the mistreatment of pro-EU activists.
Russia
said it transferred the first two billion euros of a 10 billion euro bailout, some
$15 billion. President Vladimir Putin offered Ukraine the lifeline last week, along
with a pledge to reduce the price Kyiv pays for Russian natural gas by a third.
Ukrainian
Prime Minister Mykola Azarov is pleased the money arrived, just in time for Orthodox
Christmas. "It is a very significant stabilising factor for Ukraine," he told reporters.
"Thanks to the agreement, Ukraine's credit rating has improved, which means the country
has left the zone – the financial situation – which we found ourselves in.”
Commentators
say it is an attempt to keep Ukraine firmly within Moscow’s influence and outside
the European Union.
Ukraine's prime minister was already in Moscow to observe
a meeting of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council, which will become a controversial
customs union, formed by Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan. Russia made clear it wants
Ukraine to join, despite ongoing massive demonstrations by pro-EU protesters who fear
the re-establishment of the Soviet Union. The deal also comes amid concerns over threats
against Ukrainian activists, including anti-corruption journalist Tatyana Chornovol.
Internet footage shows she was driving home when her car was repeatedly rammed by
a sports utility vehicle on Tuesday.
Three men then attacked and beat the
woman, who was rushed to an intensive care unit with a broken nose, concussion and
numerous bruises. At least two men were reportedly detained following the revelations.
The journalist is known in Ukraine for investigating the wealthy life of top officials.
Shortly before she was attacked, Chornovol reported on the Interior Minister life
style, and last year she managed to post photos of President Yanukovich’s golf course
and a house boat.
The president has distanced himself from the violence,
ordering a criminal investigation into the attack. - Listen to this report
from Stefan Bos: