KIEV, May 11 - The involvement of Ukrainian companies in gas extraction projects in Russia is delayed by the political crisis in Ukraine, Ukrainian Fuel and Energy Minister Yuriy Boyko said Friday.

Ukraine has chosen two out of several projects it was offered, he said.

"We are talking about major deposits with wells and confirmed reserves located along existing gas pipelines,??? Boyko said in an interview with Vremya Novostey newspaper. ???The endorsement of expert conclusions required consent from top Russian and Ukrainian leaders and relevant agencies. Because of the complicated political situation in our country, the top-level meeting has not taken place.???