Yushchenko addresses crowd in Kiev square

Updated: 12:03, Monday, 24 January 2005

Ukraine's Viktor Yuschenko has addressed a crowd of hundreds of thousands who have gathered in Kiev's Independence Square to celebrate his swearing in as their new president.

1 of 2Viktor Yushchenko - Takes oath of office
Viktor Yushchenko - Takes oath of office
2 of 2Kiev - Thousands gather in square
Kiev - Thousands gather in square

Ukraine's Viktor Yuschenko has addressed a crowd of hundreds of thousands who have gathered in Kiev's Independence Square to celebrate his swearing in as their new president.

He told them he aimed to secure a full place for Ukraine in a united Europe.

He also said that the people of Ukraine had now acheived an honest election, and that he wanted to create a democratic and prosperous nation.

Earlier today the former opposition leader took an oath of office at a ceremony in parliament.

It was attended by hundreds of guests, including the US Secretary of State, Colin Powell, and the presidents of seven countries. 

The pro-Western Mr Yushchenko beat the Russian-backed candidate, Viktor Yanukovych, in a re-run of last November's disputed election.

Live Player

  • Next
  • 11:00 - 13:05

    Sinn Fein Ard Fheis

  • 13:05 - 13:15

    RTÉ News and Weather

  • Later
  • 16:00 - 16:10

    Nuacht RTÉ

  • 17:20 - 18:00

    Sinn Fein Ard Fheis: The Leader's Speech