The political crisis in Kiev is a matter of great concern to those who welcome the political progress made since the Orange Revolution. It is vital that this situation is resolved in line with the rule of law and democratic principles consistent with European values, and above all in accordance with the democratically expressed wishes of the Ukrainian people.

We have to accept that the European Union has not done enough to prevent this crisis from developing. Whereas other European countries that made the transition from Soviet rule to democracy benefited from substantial political and material support, Ukraine has been asked to overcome a very difficult political legacy largely on its own.

Because of the Union's internal preoccupations, adequate attention has not been devoted to the task of nurturing and encouraging Ukraine's democratic gains. It is now time for Europe to engage in a more committed and consistent manner.

European leaders must understand and acknowledge the context in which the crisis has arisen. President Viktor Yushchenko acted responsibly by agreeing to share power with his former rival, Viktor Yanukovych, after last year's parliamentary elections produced a stalemate. Unfortunately, Yanukovych has since used the office of prime minister to initiate a self-serving political power grab and has upset the delicate political balance of Ukrainian society.

There is therefore little utility in calling for Ukraine's leaders to reach a sensible internal settlement when one side is unwilling to share power and normal constitutional mechanisms have fallen into disrepair.