Ukraine's coalition collapses in blow to the president-elect

Kiev (Ukraine), May 17 (AP) Ukraine's ruling parliamentary coalition has collapsed in what represents a setback for the country's president-elect's plans to hold early elections. The speaker in the Supreme Rada said Friday that he has received a notification from lawmakers about the breakdown of the coalition, which was made up of various parties including lawmakers from defeated President Petro Poroshenko's party.

In last month's election, President-elect Volodymyr Zelenskiy vowed to disband the parliament, claiming that it does not represent the interests of the people. Dissolving the parliament is necessary for holding a snap election. However, under Ukrainian law, the president cannot do so if there is no governing coalition.

Zelenskiy is to be sworn in as president on Monday. (AP) RS RS