The Orange Revolution in Ukraine is apparently over, thus the Orange Revolution has more in common with the so-called French Revolution than with the American Revolution. It, like so many political movements throughout history, was consumed by petty rivalries, political infighting and a united and vocal opposition. In 2004, authoritarian pro-Moscow forces were forced from power in the wake of a rigged election designed to ensure Moscow’s continued influence in the country.

With much fan fare, a new era was ushered in under the leadership of Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko and Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko. The two power players did not get along and within a year President Yushchenko had dismissed Ukraine’s first female prime minister.

Now in the wake of new parliamentary elections it seems they have paid the price for their political infighting. Forces loyal to Moscow, and thus loyal to the authoritarian Putin have gained a significant number of seats in the Ukrainian parliament.

While the fractured Orange revolutionaries still maintain a majority, their numbers have been greatly diminished and furthermore, it is unlikely that the former revolutionary allies will be able to forge a lasting coalition, thereby ensuring that Moscow’s efforts to tighten the reigns on its former Soviet brethren will continue in earnest.
http://en.rian.ru/world/20060327/44856047.html