Ukraine's PM to defend gas deal

The gas dispute turned into a diplomatic crisis

The Ukrainian Prime Minister Yury Yekhanurov is due to appear before the country's parliament on Tuesday to defend the recent gas deal with Russia.

There has been criticism over the deal, which saw Ukraine agree to pay $95 (£53.7) per 1,000 cubic metres of gas, almost double the previous price.

Russia turned off Ukraine's gas supplies for three days on 1 January during the price dispute.

Initial relief at the deal has given way to fear prices could rise again.

Ukraine 'victory'

There are fears that the deal could allow Russia to raise its prices again in six months. Some observers say opposition MPs may seek a vote of no confidence in the government.

But Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko has said the deal is a victory for Ukraine.

Ukraine had been paying only $50 (£28) per 1,000 cubic metres for its gas until the deal was reached.

Analysts say the deal is a face-saving compromise for the two sides.

"It's designed so that both sides can say they're paying - and being paid - the price they wanted," Stephen O'Sullivan from Moscow investment bank UFG told the BBC News website.

Former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko has launched a legal challenge against the energy deal.