Paris - Russian President Vladimir Putin has reaffirmed Russia's position that it considers unjust former Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko's conviction for signing the 2009 gas supply contracts with Russia.
"I do not think that any sports competitions should be boycotted for political reasons. I am categorically against lumping sports and politics together. This goes against the Olympic ideals," Putin said following talks with French President Francois Hollande when asked about Russia’s position regarding Tymoshenko’s conviction.
"As for Ms. Tymoshenko and her conviction, Russia’s and my position is well-known: Ms. Tymoshenko has been convicted for signing gas contracts with the Russian Federation," Putin said.
Before these contracts were signed, Russian lawyers carefully analyzed Russian, Ukrainian and international laws.
"We never sign contracts that go against the counteragent country’s laws," Putin said.
Putin pointed out that Russia has openly proposed transferring Tymoshenko to Russia for medical treatment if necessary.
Hollande said Putin and he had discussed Tymoshenko’s conviction.
"We have come to the same conclusion: jail is not the right place for her," Hollande said.
Hollande said he was against boycotting the UEFA Euro 2012 matches in Ukraine.
"France is against this. France wants to play at the European championship. But I have told my government members that it is not the right time to go to Ukraine to attend the championship," Hollande said.
