Kiev - Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko on Wednesday ordered parliament dissolved and called for new elections.

The Orange Revolution leader did not in the short nationally- televised speech make clear when the vote would take place.

Before ceasing work, Ukraine's current parliament should amend the national budget to pay for the national vote, which according to Yushchenko would allow Ukrainians to select a brand new legislature.

Yushchenko's decision came after months of political infighting in the former Soviet republic.

Yushchenko's opponents have argued that were he to dissolve parliament, the legislature could vote to amend the constitution to make the upcoming vote include selection for a new President as well.

Yushchenko's term in office is set to end in 2010. However, his opponents including current Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko and former prime minister Viktor Yanukovich have said the country must pick a new president, if it picks a new legislature. (dpa)