KIEV, UKRAINE — The Ukrainian government is defending one of its deputy interior ministers after sexy pictures of her emerged online. <br /> <br />Critics were already questioning the appointment of Anastasia Deeva, 24, to a position overseeing European integration. So when photos of her posing topless were posted to a Tumblr blog, the Ukrainian media went into a frenzy, the Kyiv Post reported. <br /> <br />Interior Minister Arsen Avakov defended her and said the photos were taken several years ago when Deeva, now a married woman, was still a student. He said students had a right to take private photos and asked if Anastasia’s critics were asexual. <br /> <br />But there’s no sign of the scandal dying down anytime soon. <br /> <br />Journalists are questioning Deeva’s suitability for her political role and whether her resume really stacks up. What’s more, social media is awash with rumors that she is having an affair with Avakov. <br /> <br />Ministry sources denied the speculation. <br /> <br />Avakov said Deeva had a Master’s degree, spoke fluent English and French, and was perfectly qualified for the job.
