Rudkovskiy argued that Yushchenko would have to submit the nomination on Monday as the latest, or 15 days after the pro-Russian coalition has first nominated Yanukovych on July 11.

But Yushchenko has called the first nomination illegal as the coalition had failed to follow required procedures. This forced the coalition to re-submit the nomination again on July 18, a date that the president had officially accepted.

???If he submits the nomination after [July 24]??¦ then Yushchenko may run into the problem of impeachment,??? Rudkovskiy said apparently suggesting the coalition may seek to initiate the procedure.

The development sharply escalates tensions in Ukraine and shows that the pro-Russian coalition has been putting increasing pressure on the president, a tactic that could backfire, analysts said.

Yushchenko on Saturday indicated that he will not submit the nomination on Monday, but will rather use the entire 15-day period required to study the candidate??™s profile. At the same time, he warned the 60-day term was expiring on Tuesday, a strong suggestion that the president obtains the power to dismiss Parliament.

???The [60-day] term set by the constitution for the formation of the government has been coming to an end,??? Yushchenko said while opening his radio address to the nation on Saturday.

???I will act within Ukrainian laws and will take responsible decision for the country as far as the future of Parliament and the government is concerned,??? Yushchenko said. (tl/ez)