Ukranian prime minister Viktor Yanukovich is clinging to a slender lead in a presidential election, but a run-off against a liberal challenger appears certain.
Official returns showed only one percentage point separating Mr Yanukovich, the establishment's candidate backed by influential neighbour Russia, from his West-leaning rival Viktor Yushchenko.
The two are set to meet in the run-off on November 21st that could decide whether Ukraine tilts to Russia or the West.
But European monitors surveying a bitter campaign of political mud-slinging and recrimination said Sunday's election failed to meet international standards.
The United States and European Union had cited unfair procedures in the campaign, primarily a bias in favour of the prime minister on pro-government television stations.
Aides to Mr Yushchenko said they suspected an elaborate plan to rig the vote was afoot.
The outcome could be a defining moment in the post-Soviet development of the country of 47 million that lies at the hub of Europe and has borders with seven countries, including Russia and three new European Union members.