Mining: Ukraine's President calls for closure of disaster mine

Ukraine's President Viktor Yushchenko, has called for the closure of Zasyadko mine in eastern Ukraine. The mine has claimed 106 lives in two weeks. The first of the three methane explosions at the mine two weeks ago killed 101 miners.

In a statement posted to his website, Yushchenko said, "In connection with the latest accident at the Zasyadko mine, which has caused casualties, I insist the mine be completely closed until all circumstances and reasons for the tragedies ... are determined".

However, Acting Prime Minister Viktor Yanukovich has said that closure would have severe economic consequences for the country.