UK's Hague: Ukraine's Suspension of EU Talks Is 'Missed Opportunity'

British Foreign Secretary William Hague said Thursday that Ukraine's decision to suspend talks on a historic agreement with the EU was a "missed opportunity" but said London remained committed to the country's future ties with Europe.

"This is a missed opportunity," Hague said in a statement, but added: "The door remains open and signature is in Ukraine's hands."

Talks on the landmark political and trade deal were suspended after Ukrainian lawmakers again failed to agree legislation that would free jailed former premier Yulia Tymoshenka, a key condition of European Union leaders.

"The UK remains committed to Ukraine's European future, to a closer relationship with Ukraine, and to signature of the Association Agreement," Hague said.

"The agreement presents the best opportunity for Ukraine to modernize and transform its institutions and economy, and build a more prosperous and stable future for the Ukrainian people."

He emphasized the value Britain placed on the relationship between the EU and former Soviet Union states, and said he looked forward to initialing the EU-Georgia and EU-Moldova Association Agreements at a summit in Vilnius next week.