Opposition leader declares victory as Ukraine in turmoil

OPPOSITION leader Viktor Yushchenko last night declared victory in Ukraine’s presidential election and took a symbolic oath of office, warning that the country was on the verge of civil conflict.

More than 200,000 supporters gathered in the capital, Kiev, in protest at alleged election fraud.

Mr Yushchenko accused authorities of rigging Sunday’s vote in favour of pro-Moscow Prime Minister Viktor Yanukovych and announced a campaign of civil disobedience.