Ukraine PM blames opposition for undermining Euro-integration efforts

Prime Minister Mykola Azarov said on March 7 he has qualms about the government’s ability to meet the EU’s May deadline for requirements to sign the Association Agreement, placing the blame on the opposition, which renewed its blockade of parliament. “Undoubtedly, the government will do everything required of it to prepare all the necessary documents in a timely manner,” his Facebook page said. “However, the work of our parliament raises a big question because passing laws – I know this from my own experience – is a long, complicated process that requires constant and consistent work. Therefore, I have certain qualms after four months of work without results.” After blocking parliament for two weeks to protest absentee voting by the majority, the opposition renewed its blockade on March 4 to protest a court ruling stripping the parliamentary mandate of Serhiy Vlasenko, the lead defense attorney of opposition leader Yulia Tymoshenko.