Yanukovich seeks support in Russia

Ukraine's Prime Minister Victor Yanukovich is seeking political and economic support in Moscow during his first visit since a deal for new parliamentary elections in his country in September.

The move ended months of political deadlock, which followed Ukraine's President Viktor Yushchenko's decision to dissolve the Parliament (the Rada).

Victor Yanukovich has already had a meeting with Russia's President Vladimir Putin. He has also signed the economic co-operation agreement with his Russian counterpart Mikhail Fradkov.

Although his visit is being billed as a boost for more economic co-operation it is seen as an effort to gain political support.

While Viktor Yanukovich has been in Moscow, Ukraine's President Viktor Yushchenko has been in Brussels courting EU leaders.