UK government ministers are to boycott England's three group games at Euro 2012 over Ukraine's treatment of jailed opposition leader Yulia Tymoshenko.

The Ukrainian ambassador to London, Volodymyr Khandogyi, told the BBC's sports editor David Bond that he "regrets" UK ministers have chosen not to attend England matches in Ukraine but rejects the term "boycott".

There are "plenty of opportunities where we can discuss these issues", he said, explaining that Ukraine is ready to "accept criticism" but would like to put their own perspective.

"I believe sport and politics don't mix," he said.

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