Europeans press Ukraine's leader to accept deal on Tymoshenko, in return for trade pact
(Reuters) - He might be ready to let her out. But he can't afford to let her back.
As deadlines near on the future of Ukraine's ties with Europe, President Viktor Yanukovich is under pressure to put aside personal animosity and let his jailed opponent, Yulia Tymoshenko, go to Germany for medical treatment.
Softening Yanukovich's hardline stance on his arch-rival is seen as crucial if Ukraine is to secure the signing of landmark agreements, including a free trade deal, with the European Union at a November summit.
But, diplomats say, the 63-year-old former truck driver knows that allowing her to rejoin the political fray would endanger his run at a second term in 2015, given her formidable populist appeal and her organisational skills.
http://uk.reuters.com/article/2013/08/04/uk-ukraine-tymoshenko-idUKBRE97302U20130804