Ukraine update

[Brad and Vika 129]

Just a quick update for those interested before I leave Odessa. I can post more trip details later if any one is interested. In the upcoming election, it is pretty much understood that the current President (Yuschenko) will fade out, replaced by the current PM (Timoshenko), or the opposition leader (Litvenenko). Conventional wisdom suggests that neither will be able to govern effectively - as they don't get along very well. Timoshenko is making overtures to Moscow now too, so look for a definite turning away from the EU and NATO.

The current exchange rate is 8 hrvna and change to the dollar. It is understood that the government is propping up the currency prior to the election, and the currency may freefall after. So don't make any big ticket purchases in hrvna just yet

[slim 1,525]

I'm pulling for Timoshenko because I can't wait to see her and Palin in the hot tub in 2012.

[Brad and Vika 129]

I'm pulling for Timoshenko because I can't wait to see her and Palin in the hot tub in 2012.

[1HappyGuy 45]

I'm all for Timoshenko in a hot tub anytime.

But seriously, it looks like Ukraine is going to have some tough times ahead, no matter who takes over. The country is still split along ethnic lines.

[Brad and Vika 129]

I'm all for Timoshenko in a hot tub anytime.

But seriously, it looks like Ukraine is going to have some tough times ahead, no matter who takes over. The country is still split along ethnic lines.

True, or at least regional ones. What amazes me is that many there still believe that Moscow is a better alternative than self reliance. Still looking for a big brother to protect and care for everything.

[payxibka 10,045]

I like to get more info on Yatseniuk (sp?). It appears he came on like a house of fire several months ago and now has fallen off....

[LvivLovers 39]

Anyone know about absentee voting for Ukraine elections from the United States? Not sure if that's possible or not.

[1HappyGuy 45]

My wife and stepson would like to know about absentee voting too. Has anyone contacted the embassy or one of the consulates concerning this?

[BluesTraveler 0]

I'm pulling for Timoshenko because I can't wait to see her and Palin in the hot tub in 2012.

If she can get the wookie vote I think she will win the election!

http://entubodamecole.files.wordpress.com/..._timoshenko.jpg

[slim 1,525]

many there still believe that Moscow is a better alternative than self reliance. Still looking for a big brother to protect and care for everything.

Sounds all too familiar.

[Brad and Vika 129]

Anyone know about absentee voting for Ukraine elections from the United States? Not sure if that's possible or not.

Sorry for the late response - Vika says you can get an absentee ballot if you want. She wasn't interested, so we didn't pursue it.