Vladimir Putin began a state visit to Kiev yesterday with a television interview in which he held out the possibility of favourable treatment to Ukrainians

Vladimir Putin began a state visit to Kiev yesterday with a television interview in which he held out the possibility of favourable treatment to Ukrainians, a move thought likely to be helpful to the pro-Moscow candidate in next Sunday's presidential election. Kremlin officials say Mr Putin is attending a celebration of the liberation of Kiev from the Nazis, but the trip will add to the tension surrounding the poll. In last night's interview, Mr Putin told Ukrainian television that visa restrictions between Russia and Ukraine would be eased. He also floated the possibility of dual citizenship between Ukrainian and Russian citizens, a popular move among the electorate. The opposition claimed the visit was timed to allow Mr Putin to support the prime minister, Viktor Yanukovich, at a time of unrest in the country. A pro-opposition lawmaker said he escaped unhurt when his car was firebombed on Monday, and a student group claimed its offices were raided by the country's secret service. The opposition candidate, Viktor Yushchenko, has claimed he was poisoned and opposition journalists have gone on hunger strike to protest at a government clampdown. The government has dismissed the incidents as PR stunts.