One element in a deal with Yanukovych, who is firmly against NATO membership, could be a shift in Tymoshenko’s support for joining the alliance. The Kremlin would be delighted. Ukrainian analysts suggest they could agree on a constitutional change saying Ukraine will keep its present “non-bloc status” rather than seeking to enter NATO. Diplomats say she has back-pedaled since demanding a “membership action plan” from NATO last year.
Ukraine can not live “in a security vacuum,” Tymoshenko tells me. But she highlights the obstacles to NATO membership — barely 20 percent support among the Ukrainian public, and division between Europe’s NATO members over the wisdom of getting Ukraine in. In the meantime Tymoshenko and her team are focusing on improving ties with the EU.
So, why no plait? “I got home at 4am and didn’t have time to produce it. I think women have to change their hairstyle from time to time.” Interviewers sometimes ask if its artificial or genuine. What’s the answer? “It is real.” Giggling, she fiddles at the back of her head, bringing down a Rapunzel-style cascade of blonde hair.
I make my excuses and leave.
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