Ukraine's leading English-language newspaper since 1995

President Victor Yushchenko, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko and opposition Party of Regions chief Victor Yanukovych are polishing up their New Year's Eve speeches. Tymoshenko is expected on Kyiv's Independence Square. Party of Regions presidential candidate Viktor Yanukovych has stated his belief that Ukrainians will live better in 2010.

In his New Year's and Christmas greeting posted on the party's official website, Yanukovych said that the holidays bring with them faith in a better life.

"I know that we will be able to overcome difficulties, that we will be able to be happy. I know that our children will be growing up healthy, and that there will be peace and well-being for every family. I know that harmony, peace and well-being will rule in our nation," the politician said. Yanukovich wished Ukrainians health, happiness and long and prosperous life. "I believe that 2010 will bring new joy and happiness into our homes," he said.

Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko's New Year's Eve greeting sounded equally cheery. She is scheduled to visit Independence Square in Kyiv after midnight.

President Victor Yushchenko, meanwhile, is expected to address the nation on television before the new year starts. Most networks will air the address and the transcript will be later published on the president's website.