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Hundreds Rally For Jailed Former Ukraine PM On Her Birthday


Tymoshenko Supporters, Opponents Clash In Kharkiv
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WATCH: Outside the Kharkiv clinic where Yulia Tymoshenko is being treated for back pain, supporters and opponents of the former prime minister clashed on her birthday. At least one anti-Tymoshenko protester was detained by police. (video by RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service)

At least 200 supporters of Ukraine's jailed former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko have gathered in the eastern city of Kharkiv to congratulate her on her 52nd birthday.

The activists met in front of the clinic where Tymoshenko is being treated for back pain.

Supporters from different parts of Ukraine brought postcards and signs saying "Happy birthday, Yulia!"

Police intervened after a group of anti-Tymoshenko activists scuffled with her supporters.

Police took away at least one anti-Tymoshenko activist.

Tymoshenko, a bitter rival of President Viktor Yanukovych, is serving a seven-year prison term for abuse of office.

She and her supporters say the charges were politically motivated.

On November 26, the authorities granted permission to Tymoshenko's daughter Yevhenia to stay with her mother for three days.

Based on reporting by UNIAN and Interfax

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