unian--2020-10-14--Zelensky on meeting with MI6 chief: Disinformation, fake news discussed

Ukraine has a major issue with the media being financed not only by Ukrainians , Zelensky says .
President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed media reports about a meeting held in London with the British Intelligence Service MI6 officials during his official visit to the UK .
The issues of disinformation and fake news were discussed during that meeting , Zelensky 's Office reported citing the president and thus debunking earlier reports alleging that the Brits had warned the Ukrainian leader of leaks coming from his nearest entourage .
The head of state has appealed to Ukrainian media to `` verify @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' `` We had a meeting in the MI6 office .
Unfortunately , not all the information I can disclose .
These are state affairs .
I read about what some report on participants of that meeting .
First , there was a different composition at this meeting [ ZN.ua claimed SBU chief Ivan Bakanov was invited unlike representatives of the President 's Office ] , '' said Volodymyr Zelensky , answering reporters ' questions during his visit to Odesa region on Wednesday .
The issue `` which , as per some Ukrainian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meeting , was actually not considered at all , '' the President 's Office reported , apparently referring to the leaks claim initially voiced by the ZN.ua outlet citing a source .
The head of state said that one of the topics discussed was countering disinformation and fake news .
He stressed that the issues of protection of freedom and protection of information are extremely important for national security , so it is important to create independent media .
Read alsoBritain to help Ukraine counter Russia 's `` malign influence '' Volodymyr Zelensky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ integrity and verify information regardless of who owns a particular media outlet .
`` It seems to me that the main purpose of this job is to verify information and freely make it public .
And it 's rightly so .
As for the independent media , I am sure that we have many independent journalists .
And we will always support their freedom , '' the president concluded .
ZN.ua on Tuesday , October 12 , reported , citing a source , that Volodymyr Zelensky during his official visit to the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of British intelligence , Richard Moore .
ZN.ua claimed it was Moore who was instructed by the British government to convey to Zelensky the messages that Prime Minister Boris Johnson did not want to voice personally for a number of reasons .
During the meeting , ZN.ua said , three main topics were allegedly discussed : The attacks by Ukrainian authorities on anti-corruption bodies and the will of the President 's Office to take control of the Special Anti-corruption Prosecutor 's Office , the National Anti-corruption Bureau , and the Office of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country 's courts ; The situation in the East and Russia 's actions ; and Zelensky 's entourage , not only official , but also informal , who have a significant influence on the Ukrainian president .

Ukraine has a major issue with the media being financed not only by Ukrainians, Zelensky says.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed media reports about a meeting held in London with the British Intelligence Service MI6 officials during his official visit to the UK.
The issues of disinformation and fake news were discussed during that meeting, Zelensky's Office reported citing the president and thus debunking earlier reports alleging that the Brits had warned the Ukrainian leader of leaks coming from his nearest entourage.
The head of state has appealed to Ukrainian media to "verify more carefully the information they publish."
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"We had a meeting in the MI6 office. Unfortunately, not all the information I can disclose. These are state affairs. I read about what some report on participants of that meeting. First, there was a different composition at this meeting [ZN.ua claimed SBU chief Ivan Bakanov was invited unlike representatives of the President's Office]," said Volodymyr Zelensky, answering reporters' questions during his visit to Odesa region on Wednesday.
The issue "which, as per some Ukrainian media, was allegedly raised at the meeting, was actually not considered at all," the President's Office reported, apparently referring to the leaks claim initially voiced by the ZN.ua outlet citing a source.
"Of all the issues from our long two-hour meeting, most was information about helping and protecting our sovereignty and territorial integrity. I can't share the details," the president said.
The head of state said that one of the topics discussed was countering disinformation and fake news.
"They just said that we have a major issue with the media being financed not only by Ukrainians. That in Ukraine, unfortunately, many of TV channels we all know are financed by different groups," the head of state said.
He stressed that the issues of protection of freedom and protection of information are extremely important for national security, so it is important to create independent media.
Read alsoBritain to help Ukraine counter Russia's "malign influence"Volodymyr Zelensky expressed hope that journalists will preserve their integrity and verify information regardless of who owns a particular media outlet.
"It seems to me that the main purpose of this job is to verify information and freely make it public. And it's rightly so. As for the independent media, I am sure that we have many independent journalists. And we will always support their freedom," the president concluded.
Meeting with MI6: Background
ZN.ua on Tuesday, October 12, reported, citing a source, that Volodymyr Zelensky during his official visit to the UK held an unannounced meeting with the head of British intelligence, Richard Moore.
ZN.ua claimed it was Moore who was instructed by the British government to convey to Zelensky the messages that Prime Minister Boris Johnson did not want to voice personally for a number of reasons.
During the meeting, ZN.ua said, three main topics were allegedly discussed:
The attacks by Ukrainian authorities on anti-corruption bodies and the will of the President's Office to take control of the Special Anti-corruption Prosecutor's Office, the National Anti-corruption Bureau, and the Office of the Prosecutor General, as well as the country's courts;
The situation in the East and Russia's actions; and
Zelensky's entourage, not only official, but also informal, who have a significant influence on the Ukrainian president.


unian--2020-10-15--COVID-19 in Kyiv: Official comments on prospects of "red zone" lockdown

Quarantine zoning is revised in Ukraine every two weeks .
Kyiv will remain in the `` orange '' quarantine zone for the next week , says Oleh Ruban , head of the Kyiv office of the State Food and Consumer Service .
The relevant decision should be made by the Emergencies Commissions later today , the official has told RBC-Ukraine .
At the same time , Kyiv could potentially be assigned into the `` red zone '' with the toughest quarantine restrictions if COVID-19 hospital load further deteriorates .
He also clarified that the situation with kindergartens and schools is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more hospitals to tackle COVID-19 spikeLess than 0.5 % of students and teachers have fallen ill in Kyiv , the official noted , adding that the situation is being addressed through the algorithm of `` self-isolation and timely measures . ''
• On October 12 , new zoning was introduced in Ukraine to impose different-tier quarantine restrictions in districts and settlements depending on COVID-19 spread threats .
Two cities were put into the red zone : the regional center of Sumy and Cherkashy region 's Kaniv .
• On October 13 , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until the end of the year , passing a number of amendments to regulations .
• Since August 1 , as part of the adaptive quarantine , the country has been divided into four quarantine zones – `` green '' , `` yellow '' , `` orange , '' and `` red '' , depending on the epidemiological situation .

Quarantine zoning is revised in Ukraine every two weeks.
Kyiv will remain in the "orange" quarantine zone for the next week, says Oleh Ruban, head of the Kyiv office of the State Food and Consumer Service.
The relevant decision should be made by the Emergencies Commissions later today, the official has told RBC-Ukraine.
At the same time, Kyiv could potentially be assigned into the "red zone" with the toughest quarantine restrictions if COVID-19 hospital load further deteriorates.
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"Kyiv is now in the 'orange zone' and will remain in the 'orange zone.' Everything depends on a single criterion. It's beds availability in hospitals," Ruban said.
He also clarified that the situation with kindergartens and schools is under control.
Read alsoKyiv deploying five more hospitals to tackle COVID-19 spikeLess than 0.5% of students and teachers have fallen ill in Kyiv, the official noted, adding that the situation is being addressed through the algorithm of "self-isolation and timely measures."
Quarantine in Ukraine: Background


unian--2020-10-15--EU imposes sanctions against "Putin's chef" – journalist

Prigozhin has been sanctioned over the role of Wagner PMC in Libya .
Brussels-based RFE/RL journalist Rikard Jozwiak has said the European Union imposed sanctions against Russian businessman , `` Putin 's chef '' Yevgeniy Prigozhin .
`` The biggest EU sanction decision today is however that the financier of the Wagner Group and `` Putin 's chef '' Yevgeniy Prigozhin is sanctioned by the EU over the role of Wagner in Libya , '' he wrote on Twitter on October 15 , 2020 .
Read alsoFour members of Russia 's PMC Wagner killed in helicopter crash in Libya – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made together with the imposition of sanctions against six Russian citizens involved in the poisoning of opposition leader Alexei Navalny .
Prigozhin , often described in media as `` Putin 's chef '' due to his catering business dealing with banquets set up for President Putin and other senior political figures , was accused by U.S. prosecutors in Robert Mueller 's office of standing behind Concord Management and Consulting LLC , a firm that helped oversee the activities of a propaganda campaign to help U.S. President Donald Trump in 2016 election .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was imposing new restrictions on Prigozhin 's assets , including a yacht and several private jets , because he also attempted to meddle in the U.S. midterm elections in 2018 .
In July 2020 , the United States sanctioned five companies connected to Prigozhin , as well as three individuals , in the latest bid to stop the financier 's `` destabilizing global activity . ''

Prigozhin has been sanctioned over the role of Wagner PMC in Libya.
Brussels-based RFE/RL journalist Rikard Jozwiak has said the European Union imposed sanctions against Russian businessman, "Putin's chef" Yevgeniy Prigozhin.
"The biggest EU sanction decision today is however that the financier of the Wagner Group and "Putin's chef" Yevgeniy Prigozhin is sanctioned by the EU over the role of Wagner in Libya," he wrote on Twitter on October 15, 2020.
Read alsoFour members of Russia's PMC Wagner killed in helicopter crash in Libya – mediaAccording to Jozwiak, the decision is made together with the imposition of sanctions against six Russian citizens involved in the poisoning of opposition leader Alexei Navalny.
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Prigozhin: Background
Prigozhin, often described in media as "Putin's chef" due to his catering business dealing with banquets set up for President Putin and other senior political figures, was accused by U.S. prosecutors in Robert Mueller's office of standing behind Concord Management and Consulting LLC, a firm that helped oversee the activities of a propaganda campaign to help U.S. President Donald Trump in 2016 election.
In 2019, the U.S. Treasury Department said it was imposing new restrictions on Prigozhin's assets, including a yacht and several private jets, because he also attempted to meddle in the U.S. midterm elections in 2018.
In July 2020, the United States sanctioned five companies connected to Prigozhin, as well as three individuals, in the latest bid to stop the financier's "destabilizing global activity."


unian--2020-10-15--MFA Ukraine rejects Minsk's accusations of unfriendly act

Ukraine is traditionally open and friendly for the citizens of Belarus , Zelenko said .
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs ( MFA ) says Ukraine rejects accusations by Minsk of unfriendly actions over the Presidential decree on measures to attract IT specialists from Belarus to Ukraine .
Read alsoFM Kuleba reveals details of upcoming sanctions against Lukashenko 's regime '' Ukraine rejects accusations by Minsk of unfriendly actions .
Our state is traditionally open and friendly for the citizens of Belarus .
Even before the crisis in Belarus , travel between our countries was as free as possible , while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' MFA press secretary Kateryna Zelenko said in a comment available to UNIAN .
On October 4 , Zelensky enacted regulations streamlining the issue of residence permits to Belarusian entrepreneurs and highly qualified experts .
According to the decree , the government must extend the period of temporary stay of Belarusian citizens in Ukraine to 180 days per year .
This applies to entrepreneurs , highly qualified specialists ( in particular , IT and innovation specialists ) , and their family members .
The Cabinet of Ministers is also to introduce a pilot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the said categories of Belarusian nationals .
At the same time , it is necessary to provide for the possibility of reducing to three days the timeframe for obtaining such permits without the need for additional crossing out of Ukraine .
Separately , the government should optimize the procedure for obtaining permits for the use of foreign labor as regards Belarusian highly qualified IT specialists .
To this end , it is proposed that the period for granting such permits be cut to five days .
The procedure for registering Belarusian IT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tax '' payers should also be adjusted .
Ukraine is also set to also recognize employment paperwork issued by the Belarusian authorities .
On October 13 , the Cabinet of Ministers eased the procedure for granting a temporary residence permit for IT specialists from Belarus .
On October 14 , Ambassador of Ukraine to the Republic of Belarus Ihor Kyzym was summoned to the Belarusian Foreign Ministry and handed a note over the presidential decree on measures to attract Belarusian IT specialists .
The Belarusian Foreign Ministry regards the decree as an `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukrainian side .

Ukraine is traditionally open and friendly for the citizens of Belarus, Zelenko said.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) says Ukraine rejects accusations by Minsk of unfriendly actions over the Presidential decree on measures to attract IT specialists from Belarus to Ukraine.
Read alsoFM Kuleba reveals details of upcoming sanctions against Lukashenko's regime"Ukraine rejects accusations by Minsk of unfriendly actions. Our state is traditionally open and friendly for the citizens of Belarus. Even before the crisis in Belarus, travel between our countries was as free as possible, while interpersonal and business contacts were strengthening," MFA press secretary Kateryna Zelenko said in a comment available to UNIAN.
"Ukraine is a democratic European state committed to European values, among which the protection of human rights and freedoms is of fundamental importance. We will always welcome in Ukraine people who share these values and seek to realize themselves in our state," Zelenko said.
Residence permits for Belarusian IT specialists
On October 4, Zelensky enacted regulations streamlining the issue of residence permits to Belarusian entrepreneurs and highly qualified experts.
According to the decree, the government must extend the period of temporary stay of Belarusian citizens in Ukraine to 180 days per year. This applies to entrepreneurs, highly qualified specialists (in particular, IT and innovation specialists), and their family members.
The Cabinet of Ministers is also to introduce a pilot project on simplified registration of residence permits for the said categories of Belarusian nationals. At the same time, it is necessary to provide for the possibility of reducing to three days the timeframe for obtaining such permits without the need for additional crossing out of Ukraine.
Separately, the government should optimize the procedure for obtaining permits for the use of foreign labor as regards Belarusian highly qualified IT specialists. To this end, it is proposed that the period for granting such permits be cut to five days.
The procedure for registering Belarusian IT specialists as individual entrepreneurs and "flat tax" payers should also be adjusted.
Ukraine is also set to also recognize employment paperwork issued by the Belarusian authorities.
On October 13, the Cabinet of Ministers eased the procedure for granting a temporary residence permit for IT specialists from Belarus.
On October 14, Ambassador of Ukraine to the Republic of Belarus Ihor Kyzym was summoned to the Belarusian Foreign Ministry and handed a note over the presidential decree on measures to attract Belarusian IT specialists. The Belarusian Foreign Ministry regards the decree as an "unfriendly and discriminatory step" by the Ukrainian side.


unian--2020-10-15--President's Office explains essence of "Donbas question" in upcoming Zelensky poll

The free territories of Donbas could be provided the most loyal terms for taxation .
The President 's Office explained what the concept of a `` free economic zone in Donbas '' means after President Zelensky said citizens would be asked their opinion on the matter on October 25 .
The memo posted on the website of the President 's Office notes that today there are two parts in Donbas : that controlled by government and the temporarily occupied one .
The issue concerns creating `` special economic conditions '' for the free part of Donbas , which can significantly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the occupied territories .
`` Having come to the polling station for local elections , Ukrainians will be able to independently answer the question about creating a free economic zone in Donetsk and Luhansk regions .
This is an extremely important issue that can provide the country with the opportunity to come up with a truly effective reintegration model .
It is about the concept of the regional economy , which stitches the region together , makes it attractive for businesses , and systemically restores infrastructure , '' the commentary says .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the territory controlled by the Ukrainian government , the President 's Office explains .
These areas are experiencing major fallout of war , being in need of economic recovery .
In addition , the accelerated economic development on the Ukrainian side of the demarcation line in Donbas can become a clear argument in favor of Ukraine for all residents of the occupied areas .
`` Attracting leading companies to Donbas , fueling economic development through large-scale partnership programs could also become a tool for dismantling any negative influence of the occupying force @ @ @ @ @ @ @ powers to help Ukraine by protecting their companies ' business in Donbas .
A special loyal approach to taxation , fundamentally comfortable conditions of state supervision over business activities – this can significantly help the Ukrainian Donbas , first the free parts , and then the liberated ones , '' the report says .
The President 's Office notes that the solution to the issue of a free economic zone in Donbas will depend on the engagement of citizens in the survey on October 25 .
`` We realize that this format of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can not have direct legal implications .
But its political weight will be such that politicians wo n't be able to ignore people 's choice .
What this choice will be depends on each participant in the poll , '' the report concludes .
On October 13 , Zelensky said an all-Ukrainian poll with five important issues to be out forward would be carried out on local election day , October 25 .
The exact questions that will be included in the survey are yet to be made public .
The poll , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ direct legal implications , the President 's Office explained , addressing public concern over the legitimacy of holding such a survey and its consequences .
On October 14 , Zelensky announced the first out of five questions and on October 15 he revealed the second one .

The free territories of Donbas could be provided the most loyal terms for taxation.
The President's Office explained what the concept of a "free economic zone in Donbas" means after President Zelensky said citizens would be asked their opinion on the matter on October 25.
The memo posted on the website of the President's Office notes that today there are two parts in Donbas: that controlled by government and the temporarily occupied one. The issue concerns creating "special economic conditions" for the free part of Donbas, which can significantly affect the pace of the reintegration of the occupied territories.
"Having come to the polling station for local elections, Ukrainians will be able to independently answer the question about creating a free economic zone in Donetsk and Luhansk regions. This is an extremely important issue that can provide the country with the opportunity to come up with a truly effective reintegration model. It is about the concept of the regional economy, which stitches the region together, makes it attractive for businesses, and systemically restores infrastructure," the commentary says.
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The corresponding steps will first be carried out on the territory controlled by the Ukrainian government, the President's Office explains. These areas are experiencing major fallout of war, being in need of economic recovery. In addition, the accelerated economic development on the Ukrainian side of the demarcation line in Donbas can become a clear argument in favor of Ukraine for all residents of the occupied areas.
"Attracting leading companies to Donbas, fueling economic development through large-scale partnership programs could also become a tool for dismantling any negative influence of the occupying force. And an additional argument for world powers to help Ukraine by protecting their companies' business in Donbas. A special loyal approach to taxation, fundamentally comfortable conditions of state supervision over business activities – this can significantly help the Ukrainian Donbas, first the free parts, and then the liberated ones," the report says.
The President's Office notes that the solution to the issue of a free economic zone in Donbas will depend on the engagement of citizens in the survey on October 25.
"We realize that this format of people voting on issues of national importance cannot have direct legal implications. But its political weight will be such that politicians won't be able to ignore people's choice. What this choice will be depends on each participant in the poll," the report concludes.
October 25 poll: Background
On October 13, Zelensky said an all-Ukrainian poll with five important issues to be out forward would be carried out on local election day, October 25.
The exact questions that will be included in the survey are yet to be made public.
The poll, unlike the referendum, will have no direct legal implications, the President's Office explained, addressing public concern over the legitimacy of holding such a survey and its consequences.
On October 14, Zelensky announced the first out of five questions and on October 15 he revealed the second one.


unian--2020-10-15--President of Kyrgyzstan steps down amid unrest

The situation in the country , in particular in Bishkek , remains tense , Jeenbekov notes .
President of Kyrgyzstan Sooronbai Jeenbekov addressed the nation today , October 15 , in connection with the latest social and political developments in the country .
The situation in the country , in particular in Bishkek , remains tense , Jeenbekov said , according to KG24 .
`` Yesterday the Parliament approved the new government composition , I signed decrees of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic on the appropriate appointments .
But this did n't ease tensions .
Unfortunately , aggression is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resignation are still in place .
The current developments are close to spilling into a bilateral conflict , '' Sooronbai Jeenbekov said .
Read alsoTikhanovskaya addresses Lukashenko with ultimatumHe notes that there are protesters on the one hand , on the other – law enforcement agencies .
`` Military personnel and law enforcement are obliged to use weapons to protect the state residence .
In this case , blood will be spilled , it 's inevitable .
I urge both sides not to succumb to provocation .
Peace in Kyrgyzstan , integrity of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and public calm are above all for me .
There is nothing dearer to me than the life of each of my compatriots , '' Jeenbekov said .
Protests have been raging in Kyrgyzstan 's Bishkek since October 4 parliamentary elections many believe were rigged .
Some 590 protesters were injured and one killed in clashes with riot police , the ministry of health reports .
As the events unfolded , part of protesters moved to storm the parliament 's building , the so-called White House , which also hosts the president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the building after the government security retreated .
In further escalation , the crowd seized the headquarters of the National Security Committee .
Former president Almazbek Atambaev , who in June was sentenced to 11 years and two months in prison on corruption-related charges for 11 years , was freed from the seized building and driven off .
In further developments , protesters also released former prime minister Sapar Isakov , who had been doing a prison sentence for corruption at the Historical Museum and during the modernization of Bishkek CHPP .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sadyr Japarov from a penal colony , where he was serving a sentence on charges of hostage-taking and other crimes .
The parliament elected Japarov the country 's new prime minister .
Jeenbekov on October 9 introduced a state of emergency in the country and expressed readiness to resign if a number of conditions were met .

The situation in the country, in particular in Bishkek, remains tense, Jeenbekov notes.
President of Kyrgyzstan Sooronbai Jeenbekov addressed the nation today, October 15, in connection with the latest social and political developments in the country.
The situation in the country, in particular in Bishkek, remains tense, Jeenbekov said, according to KG24.
"Yesterday the Parliament approved the new government composition, I signed decrees of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic on the appropriate appointments. But this didn't ease tensions. Unfortunately, aggression isn't subsiding, demands for my immediate resignation are still in place. The current developments are close to spilling into a bilateral conflict," Sooronbai Jeenbekov said.
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Read alsoTikhanovskaya addresses Lukashenko with ultimatumHe notes that there are protesters on the one hand, on the other – law enforcement agencies.
"Military personnel and law enforcement are obliged to use weapons to protect the state residence. In this case, blood will be spilled, it's inevitable. I urge both sides not to succumb to provocation. Peace in Kyrgyzstan, integrity of the country, unity of our people, and public calm are above all for me. There is nothing dearer to me than the life of each of my compatriots," Jeenbekov said.
"I'm not holding on to power. I do not want to go down in history of Kyrgyzstan as president who shed blood and shot his own citizens. Therefore, I've decided to resign," he said.
Kyrgyz protests: Background
Protests have been raging in Kyrgyzstan's Bishkek since October 4 parliamentary elections many believe were rigged.
Some 590 protesters were injured and one killed in clashes with riot police, the ministry of health reports.
As the events unfolded, part of protesters moved to storm the parliament's building, the so-called White House, which also hosts the president's office.
The crowd eventually took over the building after the government security retreated.
In further escalation, the crowd seized the headquarters of the National Security Committee.
Former president Almazbek Atambaev, who in June was sentenced to 11 years and two months in prison on corruption-related charges for 11 years, was freed from the seized building and driven off.
In further developments, protesters also released former prime minister Sapar Isakov, who had been doing a prison sentence for corruption at the Historical Museum and during the modernization of Bishkek CHPP.
Protesters have also released a local nationalist Sadyr Japarov from a penal colony, where he was serving a sentence on charges of hostage-taking and other crimes.
The parliament elected Japarov the country's new prime minister.
Jeenbekov on October 9 introduced a state of emergency in the country and expressed readiness to resign if a number of conditions were met.


unian--2020-10-15--Advisor to President's Office chief reveals all five questions for national poll

Discussions on the fifth question are reportedly still underway .
Mykhailo Podolyak , an anti-crisis communications advisor to Head of the President 's Office Andriy Yermak , has revealed five questions to be submitted for the all-Ukrainian poll , which will coincide with local elections on October 25 .
He announced the list of questions in a comment to the Novoe Vremya weekly .
Here is the list of questions : • 1 .
Do you support life sentence for large-scale corruption ?
• 2 .
Do you support the idea of creating a free economic zone in Donbas ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Parliament composition to 300 MPs ?
• 4 .
Do you support legalization of cannabis for medical purposes – to ease pain for critically ill patients ?
• 5 .
Do you support Ukraine 's right to apply security guarantees defined by the Budapest Memorandum to restore its state sovereignty and territorial integrity ?
According to Podolyak , discussions on the fifth question are still underway .
On October 13 , Zelensky said an all-Ukrainian poll with five important issues to be out forward would be carried out on local election day , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be included in the survey were not immediately revealed .
The poll , unlike the referendum , will have no direct legal implications , the President 's Office explained , addressing public concern over the legitimacy of holding such a survey and its consequences .

Discussions on the fifth question are reportedly still underway.
Mykhailo Podolyak, an anti-crisis communications advisor to Head of the President's Office Andriy Yermak, has revealed five questions to be submitted for the all-Ukrainian poll, which will coincide with local elections on October 25.
He announced the list of questions in a comment to the Novoe Vremya weekly.
Here is the list of questions:
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1. Do you support life sentence for large-scale corruption? 2. Do you support the idea of creating a free economic zone in Donbas? 3. Do you support reducing Parliament composition to 300 MPs? 4. Do you support legalization of cannabis for medical purposes – to ease pain for critically ill patients? 5. Do you support Ukraine's right to apply security guarantees defined by the Budapest Memorandum to restore its state sovereignty and territorial integrity?
According to Podolyak, discussions on the fifth question are still underway.
October 25 poll: Background
On October 13, Zelensky said an all-Ukrainian poll with five important issues to be out forward would be carried out on local election day, October 25.
The exact questions that will be included in the survey were not immediately revealed.
The poll, unlike the referendum, will have no direct legal implications, the President's Office explained, addressing public concern over the legitimacy of holding such a survey and its consequences.


unian--2020-10-15--Finance Ministry borrows another UAH 6 bln to state budget

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The funds were raised from the sale of four bond packages.
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unian--2020-10-15--Zelensky plans to address parliament on Oct 20 – media

At the same time , Zelensky 's speech may be canceled due to the negative public perception of the idea to hold a national poll on local election day .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reportedly plans to speak at the Verkhovna Rada , Ukraine 's parliament , on October 20 .
`` No official documents have been submitted yet , but as of Tuesday they [ Zelensky and his office ] planned to come to the Rada with the address .
We are preparing to hear the speech , '' a Parliament source has told the Ukrayinska Pravda online newspaper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be put up for national poll Oct 25At the same time , Zelensky 's speech may be canceled due to the negative public perception of the idea to hold a national poll , scheduled for October 25 , on the day of local elections .
• On October 13 , Zelensky said an all-Ukrainian poll with five important issues to be put forward would be carried out on local election day , October 25 .
• The exact questions that will be included in the survey are yet to be made public .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , will have no direct legal implications , the President 's Office explained , addressing public concern over the legitimacy of holding such a survey and its consequences .
• On October 14 , Zelensky announced the first out of five questions .
• On October 15 , the president announced the second question .

At the same time, Zelensky's speech may be canceled due to the negative public perception of the idea to hold a national poll on local election day.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reportedly plans to speak at the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament, on October 20.
"No official documents have been submitted yet, but as of Tuesday they [Zelensky and his office] planned to come to the Rada with the address. We are preparing to hear the speech," a Parliament source has told the Ukrayinska Pravda online newspaper.
Read alsoZelensky reveals second question to be put up for national poll Oct 25At the same time, Zelensky's speech may be canceled due to the negative public perception of the idea to hold a national poll, scheduled for October 25, on the day of local elections.
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October 25 poll: Background


unian--2020-10-15--UN: Pandemic could push up to 115 million people into poverty this year

Guterres has called for solidarity with all people living in poverty , during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond .
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has said the pandemic could push up to 115 million people into poverty this year .
In a video message to mark the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty , observed annually on October 17 , he highlighted how the pandemic represents `` a double crisis '' for the world ’ s poorest people .
`` Second , recent estimates show the pandemic could push up to 115 million people into poverty this year – the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at greatest risk because they are more likely to lose their jobs , and less likely to have social protection . ''
The UN chief underscored the need for extraordinary efforts to fight poverty at this time .
As the pandemic demands strong collective action , he called for Governments to accelerate economic transformation by investing in sustainable recovery .
Additionally , countries need `` a new generation of social protection programmes , '' that also cover people who work in the informal economy .
`` On the International Day for the Eradication @ @ @ @ @ @ @ solidarity with people living in poverty , throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond . ''
• Only one region ready for lifting COVID-19 curbs – health ministry • Over 5,000 new COVID-19 cases confirmed in Ukraine in past day • Ukraine extends adaptive quarantine by late 2020 , but with changes

Guterres has called for solidarity with all people living in poverty, during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has said the pandemic could push up to 115 million people into poverty this year.
In a video message to mark the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, observed annually on October 17, he highlighted how the pandemic represents "a double crisis" for the world’s poorest people.
"First, they have the highest risk of exposure to the virus, and least access to quality healthcare," said Guterres.
"Second, recent estimates show the pandemic could push up to 115 million people into poverty this year – the first increase in decades. Women are at greatest risk because they are more likely to lose their jobs, and less likely to have social protection."
The UN chief underscored the need for extraordinary efforts to fight poverty at this time.
As the pandemic demands strong collective action, he called for Governments to accelerate economic transformation by investing in sustainable recovery.
Additionally, countries need "a new generation of social protection programmes," that also cover people who work in the informal economy.
"Joining together in common cause is the only way we will emerge safely from this pandemic," said the Secretary-General.
"On the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, let's stand in solidarity with people living in poverty, throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond."
COVID-19 in Ukraine: Latest


unian--2020-10-15--Police open case over banner with anti-Semitic slogans outside President's Office

Police have launched criminal proceedings following a report about a banner with anti-Semitic slogans being unfurled outside the President 's @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday .
Kyiv 's Main Directorate of the National Police has opened criminal proceedings over @ @ @ @ @ being displayed outside the President 's Office , the United Jewish Community of Ukraine has @ @ @ @ @ case opened in Uman after attack on Hasidim from UKCriminal proceedings were opened under Article @ @ @ @ @ of Ukraine ( incitement of national , racial or religious enmity and hatred ) .
@ @ @ @ @ pre-trial investigation , aiming to identify those complicit in the crime .
The police website @ @ @ @ @ report about the crime from the head of the United Jewish Community of Ukraine , @ @ @ @ @ 14 , unidentified persons had unfurled a banner by the President 's Office with the @ @ @ @ @ !
We celebrate the anniversary of the occupation and plunder of Ukraine by the Dnipro @ @ @ @ @ `` It should be reminded that the UJCU is headed by Michael Tkach .

The pretrial investigation is underway.
Police have launched criminal proceedings following a report about a banner with anti-Semitic slogans being unfurled outside the President's Office at a rally on Wednesday.
Kyiv's Main Directorate of the National Police has opened criminal proceedings over a banner with anti-Semitic inscriptions being displayed outside the President's Office, the United Jewish Community of Ukraine has told UNIAN.
Read alsoCriminal case opened in Uman after attack on Hasidim from UKCriminal proceedings were opened under Article 161 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (incitement of national, racial or religious enmity and hatred). Law enforcers are conducting a pre-trial investigation, aiming to identify those complicit in the crime.
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The police website reported that they received a report about the crime from the head of the United Jewish Community of Ukraine, who said that on October 14, unidentified persons had unfurled a banner by the President's Office with the following inscription: "Ukrainians! We celebrate the anniversary of the occupation and plunder of Ukraine by the Dnipro Jewish clan of Vova Zelensky. "
It should be reminded that the UJCU is headed by Michael Tkach.


unian--2020-10-15--Spat over Zelensky's borscht in Donbas warzone: Disrespect or press service's gaffe?

A scandal broke out on Ukraine 's Defenders Day over the picture of President Volodymyr Zelensky and his Office chief Andriy Yermak treating themselves to some borscht , sitting at the table with soldiers who have not even been served with plates , as seen at the photo .
The awkward situation rose many eyebrows with people on the internet , including public figures , expressing their outrage and questioning the leader 's respect toward the military .
How it all started War veteran Oleh Boldyrev , widely known by his Facebook moniker Martin Brest , was among the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the picture released by the President 's Office press service covering Zelensky 's visit to the Donbas warzone on Defenders Day .
In an emotional post , the veteran accused the state leadership of `` loathing the Army . ''
Iryna Gerashchenko , an MP with the European Solidarity Bloc , led by former President Petro Poroshenko , wrote that the previous top officials would often share meals with the soldiers in the warzone , and slammed the incumbent officials with criticism : `` They just allowed soldiers to sit next to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Andriy Yermak has decried the claims as absurd , branding them fake news .
He also posted another photo shot from a different angle , showing other soldiers actually eating their food alongside Zelensky and himself .
The photo from the President 's Office website also shows that the soldiers are having lunch with the Kyiv delegation .
How it all ended On Thursday morning , Gerashchenko claimed she had not seen those other photos as she was writing her initial post .
Still , Gerashchenko still finds humiliating the widely discussed picture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ table with no plates in front of them while the top officials are eating .
`` If this borscht row finally forces a couple of ignoramuses out of the press service and make people think of what they 're posting on the president 's website , this would be awesome .
Also , if it makes all those involved think about manners , especially when it 's about having the Commander-in-Chief and the Soldiers in one photo together , I would be glad , '' MP concluded .

Things escalated quickly across social networks.
A scandal broke out on Ukraine's Defenders Day over the picture of President Volodymyr Zelensky and his Office chief Andriy Yermak treating themselves to some borscht, sitting at the table with soldiers who have not even been served with plates, as seen at the photo.
The awkward situation rose many eyebrows with people on the internet, including public figures, expressing their outrage and questioning the leader's respect toward the military.
How it all started
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War veteran Oleh Boldyrev, widely known by his Facebook moniker Martin Brest, was among the first to point at the table arrangement seen at the picture released by the President's Office press service covering Zelensky's visit to the Donbas warzone on Defenders Day.
In an emotional post, the veteran accused the state leadership of "loathing the Army."
Iryna Gerashchenko, an MP with the European Solidarity Bloc, led by former President Petro Poroshenko, wrote that the previous top officials would often share meals with the soldiers in the warzone, and slammed the incumbent officials with criticism: "They just allowed soldiers to sit next to them ..."
President's Office reaction
On Wednesday evening, Andriy Yermak has decried the claims as absurd, branding them fake news.
"You're spinning the weirdest fake story of the year so far," he wrote on Facebook, adding that it is unimaginable "to think that the military in Donbas were not served food."
He also posted another photo shot from a different angle, showing other soldiers actually eating their food alongside Zelensky and himself.
The photo from the President's Office website also shows that the soldiers are having lunch with the Kyiv delegation.
How it all ended
On Thursday morning, Gerashchenko claimed she had not seen those other photos as she was writing her initial post. Still, Gerashchenko still finds humiliating the widely discussed picture where soldiers are seen sitting at the table with no plates in front of them while the top officials are eating.
"If this borscht row finally forces a couple of ignoramuses out of the press service and make people think of what they're posting on the president's website, this would be awesome. Also, if it makes all those involved think about manners, especially when it's about having the Commander-in-Chief and the Soldiers in one photo together, I would be glad," MP concluded.


unian--2020-10-15--Zelensky reveals second question to be put up for national poll Oct 25

The question is about a free economic zone in Donbas .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the second out @ @ @ @ @ submitted for the all-Ukrainian poll , which will coincide with local elections on October 25 @ @ @ @ @ has been posted on the president 's profiles on social networks .
Read alsoZelensky reveals @ @ @ @ @ be put up for national pollThe question is : `` Do you support the idea @ @ @ @ @ zone in Donbas ? ''
On October 13 , Zelensky said an all-Ukrainian poll with @ @ @ @ @ out forward would be carried out on local election day , October 25 .
The @ @ @ @ @ included in the survey are yet to be made public .
The poll , unlike @ @ @ @ @ no direct legal implications , the President 's Office explained , addressing public concern over @ @ @ @ @ a survey and its consequences .
On October 14 , Zelensky announced the first out @ @ @ @

The question is about a free economic zone in Donbas.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced the second out of five questions to be submitted for the all-Ukrainian poll, which will coincide with local elections on October 25.
The relevant video address has been posted on the president's profiles on social networks.
Read alsoZelensky reveals one of five questions to be put up for national pollThe question is: "Do you support the idea of creating a free economic zone in Donbas?"
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October 25 poll: Background
On October 13, Zelensky said an all-Ukrainian poll with five important issues to be out forward would be carried out on local election day, October 25.
The exact questions that will be included in the survey are yet to be made public.
The poll, unlike the referendum, will have no direct legal implications, the President's Office explained, addressing public concern over the legitimacy of holding such a survey and its consequences.
On October 14, Zelensky announced the first out of five questions.


unian--2020-10-15--MI5 chief says UK facing "nasty mix" of threats

New legislation is expected to make a big difference in bringing the law up to date in criminalizing what foreign espionage agents get up to inside Britain .
Britain is facing a `` nasty mix '' of national security threats , from hostile state activity by Russia and China to fast-growing right-wing terrorism , the new director general of MI5 counterintelligence service has said .
Mr McCallum was speaking at his first media briefing as head of the service , the BBC reports .
Read alsoBritain to help Ukraine counter Russia 's `` malign influence '' The new man at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intelligence agency said Russian , Chinese and Iranian espionage and disruption is all growing in severity and complexity .
Also , speaking with the BBC 's Gordon Corera , commenting on Russia 's activity , he noted that in 2020 , this is not about spies or stealing government secrets , although this remains in place .
There is a threat to people 's safety , including assassination attempts , as it was in Alexei Navalny 's poisoning case .
`` The threats are to people , the economy , infrastructure , academic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reads .
`` Mr McCallum used a meteorological analogy , saying Russia was like bad weather but China was a far greater challenge in the long-term and more like climate change , '' the report reads .
Dealing with China requires a complicated balance , he said .
Read alsoZelensky on meeting with MI6 chief : Disinformation , fake news discussedHe said there is a need to work with China on issues like climate change , but at the same time to be robust in confronting its covert activity .
New legislation is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bringing the law up to date in criminalizing what foreign espionage agents get up to inside Britain .
MI5 has an operational role in investigating certain individuals and disrupting their activities , and a protective role building up UK 's resilience in the cyber and physical spheres .
Ken McCallum said terrorism remains the biggest threat – with Northern Irish and Islamist extremism also a concern .
The Covid lockdown raised the risk of online contact between groups , and made covert surveillance harder , he admitted .

New legislation is expected to make a big difference in bringing the law up to date in criminalizing what foreign espionage agents get up to inside Britain.
Britain is facing a "nasty mix" of national security threats, from hostile state activity by Russia and China to fast-growing right-wing terrorism, the new director general of MI5 counterintelligence service has said.
Mr McCallum was speaking at his first media briefing as head of the service, the BBC reports.
Read alsoBritain to help Ukraine counter Russia's "malign influence"The new man at the top of the UK's domestic intelligence agency said Russian, Chinese and Iranian espionage and disruption is all growing in severity and complexity.
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Also, speaking with the BBC's Gordon Corera, commenting on Russia's activity, he noted that in 2020, this is not about spies or stealing government secrets, although this remains in place. There is a threat to people's safety, including assassination attempts, as it was in Alexei Navalny's poisoning case. "The threats are to people, the economy, infrastructure, academic research and democracy," the report reads.
"Mr McCallum used a meteorological analogy, saying Russia was like bad weather but China was a far greater challenge in the long-term and more like climate change," the report reads.
Dealing with China requires a complicated balance, he said.
Read alsoZelensky on meeting with MI6 chief: Disinformation, fake news discussedHe said there is a need to work with China on issues like climate change, but at the same time to be robust in confronting its covert activity.
New legislation is expected to make a big difference in bringing the law up to date in criminalizing what foreign espionage agents get up to inside Britain.
MI5 has an operational role in investigating certain individuals and disrupting their activities, and a protective role building up UK's resilience in the cyber and physical spheres.
Ken McCallum said terrorism remains the biggest threat – with Northern Irish and Islamist extremism also a concern.
The Covid lockdown raised the risk of online contact between groups, and made covert surveillance harder, he admitted.


unian--2020-10-15--Army Commander tells when military draft could be canceled

This year the number of conscripts was reduced as the Army has been fully staffed .
In the long term , a system should be built in Ukraine so that every citizen was capable , if necessary , of engaging in defending their country – and that 's when the government will be able to completely abandon mandatory conscription as such .
That 's according to Colonel-General Ruslan Khomchak , Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces , who spoke on the air of Ukraine TV channel , Ukrainian Pravda reports .
`` Does the Army plan to abandon draft altogether – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the future .
But this can only be when we have a system of reserve training .
That 's when we have such a system that would ensure that anyone could be ready to defend their home , '' Khomchak said .
Citizens must learn to provide first aid to themselves and those around them , which should help save lives , the commander-in-chief added .
Read alsoCabinet approves draft deal on military cooperation with TurkeyKhomchak admitted that it will take more than a year to set up such a system , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understanding of what such a system should be like .
He added that this year the number of conscripts was reduced as the Army is fully staffed and the military are already raising the issue of not contracting soldiers , but moving to a new quality level : `` We understand that when there 's quality , there will be a completely different approach to carrying out combat missions and doing routine work , as well as to the status of a serviceman . ''
• War in Donbas threat to int ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020 joint military exercise opening • Army to get powerful RS80 rockets ahead of schedule

This year the number of conscripts was reduced as the Army has been fully staffed.
In the long term, a system should be built in Ukraine so that every citizen was capable, if necessary, of engaging in defending their country – and that's when the government will be able to completely abandon mandatory conscription as such.
That's according to Colonel-General Ruslan Khomchak, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, who spoke on the air of Ukraine TV channel, Ukrainian Pravda reports.
"Does the Army plan to abandon draft altogether – you know, we have this vision for the future. But this can only be when we have a system of reserve training. That's when we have such a system that would ensure that anyone could be ready to defend their home," Khomchak said.
Citizens must learn to provide first aid to themselves and those around them, which should help save lives, the commander-in-chief added.
Read alsoCabinet approves draft deal on military cooperation with TurkeyKhomchak admitted that it will take more than a year to set up such a system, while the Armed Forces already have an understanding of what such a system should be like.
"Such systems require financing, personnel training – to cover both ordinary civilians, community leaders, and senior state officials. Once such a system is in place, we can talk about abolishing conscription because it will no longer be required," Khomchak said.
He added that this year the number of conscripts was reduced as the Army is fully staffed and the military are already raising the issue of not contracting soldiers, but moving to a new quality level: "We understand that when there's quality, there will be a completely different approach to carrying out combat missions and doing routine work, as well as to the status of a serviceman."
Ukraine Army: Other reports


unian--2020-10-15--Air supply issues on ISS: Russian Orbital Segment reports failure

The station has extra oxygen supplies for such occasions .
On the International Space Station , the Electron-VM oxygen production @ @ @ @ @ Russian Orbital Segment .
That 's according to the RIA Novosti agency citing communications between @ @ @ @ @ broadcast by NASA .
The Russian cosmonaut reported the malfunction to the mission control center @ @ @ @ @ of such a failure , the station has extra supplies of oxygen .
The American @ @ @ @ @ has its own oxygen production facility .
In August , oxygen leak was reported on @ @ @ @ @ since the latest such accident .
The previous leak was discovered by ground control when @ @ @ @ @ to the Russian part of the station , the modules were sealed , and their @ @ @ @ @ Soon , experts discovered a small hole with drill marks and suggested a manufacturing defect @ @ @ @ @ investigate .
However , no further details into that incident have been cleared .
• @ @ @ @ @ designed , built in Ukraine lifts Cygnus spacecraft to ISS

The station has extra oxygen supplies for such occasions.
On the International Space Station, the Electron-VM oxygen production system has failed in the Russian Orbital Segment.
That's according to the RIA Novosti agency citing communications between crew and the ground, broadcast by NASA.
The Russian cosmonaut reported the malfunction to the mission control center near Moscow.
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In case of such a failure, the station has extra supplies of oxygen.
The American Orbital Segment of the ISS has its own oxygen production facility.
In August, oxygen leak was reported on the ISS – two years since the latest such accident.
The previous leak was discovered by ground control when Then the U.S. crew moved to the Russian part of the station, the modules were sealed, and their atmospheric pressure was examined.
Soon, experts discovered a small hole with drill marks and suggested a manufacturing defect, which Roscosmos vowed to investigate. However, no further details into that incident have been cleared.
Space: Other stories


unian--2020-10-15--Donbas war update: Ukraine reports three ceasefire violations on Oct 14

No casualties were reported over the said period .
Ukraine military says Russia-controlled armed groups in the Donbas warzone on Wednesday , October 14 , committed three violations of the latest ceasefire agreement .
`` In the past day , October 14 , the Russian Federation 's armed formations violated the ceasefire three times , '' the press center of Ukraine 's Joint Forces Operation ( JFO ) Command wrote on Facebook in an update as of 07:00 Kyiv time on October 15 , 2020 .
In particular , enemy troops used rifles near the villages of Vodiane and Novomykhailivka @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anti-tank grenade launcher and automatic grenade launchers near the town of Avdiyivka .
Read alsoNew checkpoints , prisoner swap on agenda of latest TCG meetingSince Thursday midnight , five ceasefire violations by the enemy with the use of automatic grenade launchers , hand-held anti-tank grenade launchers and rifles have been recorded near Avdiyivka , as well as from automatic grenade launchers and small arms near the villages of Prychepylivka and Novotoshkivske .
The Joint Forces did not return fire .
No casualties were reported over the period under review .
The situation is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the report assures .
• Participants in the Trilateral Contact Group ( Ukraine , Russia , and the OSCE ) on the peace settlement in Donbas on July 22 agreed on a full and comprehensive ceasefire along the contact line from 00:01 on Monday , July 27 .
• The new ceasefire regime was enforced at 00:01 Kyiv time on July 27 .
• On the very first day of the newly-agreed truce , Russia 's hybrid military forces mounted three attacks on Ukrainian positions in Donbas , eastern Ukraine .
Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ latest period .

No casualties were reported over the said period.
Ukraine military says Russia-controlled armed groups in the Donbas warzone on Wednesday, October 14, committed three violations of the latest ceasefire agreement.
"In the past day, October 14, the Russian Federation's armed formations violated the ceasefire three times," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation (JFO) Command wrote on Facebook in an update as of 07:00 Kyiv time on October 15, 2020.
In particular, enemy troops used rifles near the villages of Vodiane and Novomykhailivka. Also, they used a hand-held anti-tank grenade launcher and automatic grenade launchers near the town of Avdiyivka.
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Read alsoNew checkpoints, prisoner swap on agenda of latest TCG meetingSince Thursday midnight, five ceasefire violations by the enemy with the use of automatic grenade launchers, hand-held anti-tank grenade launchers and rifles have been recorded near Avdiyivka, as well as from automatic grenade launchers and small arms near the villages of Prychepylivka and Novotoshkivske.
The Joint Forces did not return fire.
No casualties were reported over the period under review.
The situation is under full control of the Ukrainian military, the report assures.
Donbas ceasefire: Background


unian--2020-10-15--Over 5,000 new COVID-19 cases confirmed in Ukraine Oct 15

The death toll has hit 5,302 with 73 fatalities recorded in the past day .
Ukraine said 5,062 new active COVID-19 cases had been confirmed across the country in the past 24 hours as of October 15 , 2020 .
The total number of confirmed cases grew to 281,239 as of October 15 , 2020 , according to the interactive map of the National Security and Defense Council .
As many as 119,650 patients , including 951 in the past day , have recovered .
Read alsoUkraine must resume production of own vaccines – ministerThe death toll has hit 5,302 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day .
The government reported 156,287 active cases as of October 15 .
In total , there have been 350,111 reports on suspected COVID-19 since the beginning of 2020 .
On August 1 , new rules for adaptive quarantine were enforced in Ukraine .
All regions were divided into `` green '' , `` yellow '' , `` orange '' , and `` red '' zones according to the level of the epidemic risk .
On October 13 , the Cabinet of Ministers extended the adaptive quarantine until the end of the year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said it was a `` necessary step , '' adding that such quarantine is `` the most effective mechanism '' in tackling COVID-19 in Ukraine and beyond .
• Ukraine updates list of `` red zone '' countries in terms of COVID-19 threat • Senior health official elaborates on deployment of makeshift hospitals • Education institutions in ORDO switching to distance learning over COVID-19 • Only one region ready for lifting COVID-19 curbs – health ministry

The death toll has hit 5,302 with 73 fatalities recorded in the past day.
Ukraine said 5,062 new active COVID-19 cases had been confirmed across the country in the past 24 hours as of October 15, 2020.
The total number of confirmed cases grew to 281,239 as of October 15, 2020, according to the interactive map of the National Security and Defense Council.
As many as 119,650 patients, including 951 in the past day, have recovered.
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Read alsoUkraine must resume production of own vaccines – ministerThe death toll has hit 5,302 with 73 fatalities recorded in the past day.
The government reported 156,287 active cases as of October 15. In total, there have been 350,111 reports on suspected COVID-19 since the beginning of 2020.
Quarantine in Ukraine: Background
On August 1, new rules for adaptive quarantine were enforced in Ukraine. All regions were divided into "green", "yellow", "orange", and "red" zones according to the level of the epidemic risk.
On October 13, the Cabinet of Ministers extended the adaptive quarantine until the end of the year, passing certain changes to regulations.
Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said it was a "necessary step," adding that such quarantine is "the most effective mechanism" in tackling COVID-19 in Ukraine and beyond.
COVID-19 in Ukraine: Latest


unian--2020-10-15--New checkpoints, prisoner swap on agenda of latest TCG meeting

The Ukrainian delegation has once again called for setting up an expert group under the auspices of the IAEA to monitor storage of radioactive materials in the temporarily occupied territories .
The Trilateral Contact Group ( TCG ) for Donbas settlement held a regular meeting via videoconference on Wednesday , October 14 .
The participants discussed the ceasefire in Donbas , prisoner exchange , and the opening of new checkpoints , while also noting the slowdown in the TCG work over a number of political issues , the President 's Office reported .
Head of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on ceasefire implementation .
However , he added that political issues hindering the success of the Security Subgroup 's meetings should not be central to its work .
The Ukrainian delegation again raised the issue of forming an expert group under the auspices of the IAEA to monitor storage of radioactive materials in the temporarily occupied territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions .
Read alsoEU High Representative urges Russia to fully implement Minsk agreementsDuring the discussion of the exchange of held persons , the OSCE coordinator in the humanitarian subgroup , Toni Frisch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over a list with four categories of such persons .
However , no information was provided by Russian proxies .
Frisch also noted the readiness of the parties to simultaneously open two new crossing checkpoints in Luhansk region in the first ten days of November , having fulfilled the agreements of the Normandy Four summit in Paris held in December 2019 .
He also noted positive shifts in terms of unblocking consultations within the TCG , as well as continued demining efforts at three sites .
• Amendments to resolution on local elections @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine MP comments on Russia 's unauthorized recording of peace talks , threats to release tapes

The Ukrainian delegation has once again called for setting up an expert group under the auspices of the IAEA to monitor storage of radioactive materials in the temporarily occupied territories.
The Trilateral Contact Group (TCG) for Donbas settlement held a regular meeting via videoconference on Wednesday, October 14.
The participants discussed the ceasefire in Donbas, prisoner exchange, and the opening of new checkpoints, while also noting the slowdown in the TCG work over a number of political issues, the President's Office reported.
Head of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission, Yaşar Halit Çevik, noted progress on ceasefire implementation. However, he added that political issues hindering the success of the Security Subgroup's meetings should not be central to its work.
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The Ukrainian delegation again raised the issue of forming an expert group under the auspices of the IAEA to monitor storage of radioactive materials in the temporarily occupied territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
Read alsoEU High Representative urges Russia to fully implement Minsk agreementsDuring the discussion of the exchange of held persons, the OSCE coordinator in the humanitarian subgroup, Toni Frisch, said the Ukrainian side had handed over a list with four categories of such persons.
However, no information was provided by Russian proxies.
Frisch also noted the readiness of the parties to simultaneously open two new crossing checkpoints in Luhansk region in the first ten days of November, having fulfilled the agreements of the Normandy Four summit in Paris held in December 2019.
He also noted positive shifts in terms of unblocking consultations within the TCG, as well as continued demining efforts at three sites.
TCG: Other reports


unian--2020-10-15--Ukraine must resume production of own vaccines – minister

Primarily , this is about vaccines for diphtheria , measles , tetanus , and the like .
Ukraine should resume production of its own vaccines , while it is also possible to eventually create a Ukrainian vaccine for coronavirus , says Health Minister Maksym Stepanov .
`` I affirm that we must definitely create our own vaccine production .
Ukraine must ensure full supply of its vaccines .
This is n't a quick path so this ca n't be done in six months , but our manufacturers are ready .
At least three manufacturers we talked with have appropriate capacities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine 24 TV channel .
Primarily , this is about vaccines for diphtheria , measles , tetanus , and the like , Stepanov said , adding that this is a `` biosafety issue . ''
`` COVID-19 showed that we must have our own production .
Even if it will be more costly at the first stage .
[ These three companies ] say : we are ready to do this , please give us a government order for several years in advance .
I believe that this must be done .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' said the health minister .
Commenting on the situation with the coronavirus vaccine , Stepanov noted that now Ukraine can count on 8 million doses .
`` We have joined the global COVAX initiative .
The initiative has created a corresponding alliance for vaccine access ... We have already received confirmation that we can count on 20 % of Ukraine population , that is , 8 million doses , within the alliance .
Besides , we are negotiating with all the world 's major vaccine manufacturers .
Of course , there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' said Stepanov .
Speaking about the possibility of buying a `` Russian vaccine '' , Stepanov said the issue is off the table as such at the moment : `` That 's because any vaccine , in order to be recommended , has to be safe . ''
`` For any vaccine to be registered , it must pass certain stages of clinical trials .
And these stages are stretched out in time .
There 's no evidence globally that the vaccine they are talking about in Russia has passed all stages @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trials , '' the minister said , according to RFE/RL .
He also admitted the possibility of creating a Ukrainian vaccine against coronavirus .
`` We must have our own production , we need to give our researchers a chance , we have talented people , and we will produce them ... We start with those [ foreign ] vaccines , but at the same time – may not be so fast – we could also count for a coronavirus vaccine made in Ukraine , '' Stepanov said .
• Senior health official @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Only one region ready for lifting COVID-19 curbs – health ministry

Primarily, this is about vaccines for diphtheria, measles, tetanus, and the like.
Ukraine should resume production of its own vaccines, while it is also possible to eventually create a Ukrainian vaccine for coronavirus, says Health Minister Maksym Stepanov.
"I affirm that we must definitely create our own vaccine production. Ukraine must ensure full supply of its vaccines. This isn't a quick path so this can't be done in six months, but our manufacturers are ready. At least three manufacturers we talked with have appropriate capacities to produce vaccines," Stepanov told Ukraine 24 TV channel.
Primarily, this is about vaccines for diphtheria, measles, tetanus, and the like, Stepanov said, adding that this is a "biosafety issue."
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"COVID-19 showed that we must have our own production. Even if it will be more costly at the first stage. [These three companies] say: we are ready to do this, please give us a government order for several years in advance. I believe that this must be done. I believe MPs will definitely support it," said the health minister.
Commenting on the situation with the coronavirus vaccine, Stepanov noted that now Ukraine can count on 8 million doses.
"We have joined the global COVAX initiative. The initiative has created a corresponding alliance for vaccine access... We have already received confirmation that we can count on 20% of Ukraine population, that is, 8 million doses, within the alliance. Besides, we are negotiating with all the world's major vaccine manufacturers. Of course, there is a long line for the vaccine," said Stepanov.
Speaking about the possibility of buying a "Russian vaccine", Stepanov said the issue is off the table as such at the moment: "That's because any vaccine, in order to be recommended, has to be safe."
"For any vaccine to be registered, it must pass certain stages of clinical trials. And these stages are stretched out in time. There's no evidence globally that the vaccine they are talking about in Russia has passed all stages, especially the third stage of clinical trials," the minister said, according to RFE/RL.
He also admitted the possibility of creating a Ukrainian vaccine against coronavirus.
"We must have our own production, we need to give our researchers a chance, we have talented people, and we will produce them... We start with those [foreign] vaccines, but at the same time – may not be so fast – we could also count for a coronavirus vaccine made in Ukraine," Stepanov said.
COVID-19 in Ukraine: Latest


unian--2020-10-15--Zelensky: Farmland remains cheap over lack of transparent market

The law on the farmland market passed this year will change the situation for the better , the president believes .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says the lack of a transparent market is the reason behind the prices of Ukrainian farmland being among Europe 's lowest .
Speaking at the `` Farmland for the People '' forum in Chernihiv region , the president said the law on the farmland market passed this year would change the situation for the better , according to an UNIAN correspondent .
`` The lack of a transparent market has led to the fact that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ per hectare of farmland in Europe .
We promised to give Ukrainians real ownership of their farmland , and we did it .
We made the reform precisely for Ukrainians , '' Zelensky said .
Zelensky says previously , politicians would create a screen of the alleged care for the people and protection of Ukrainian farmland , which supposedly belongs to citizens .
But at the same time , they did not allow people to become full-fledged owners , i.e .
to own , use , and independently dispose of their land plots @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right of the seven million Ukrainian landowners has been grossly violated .
Politicians would kiss dirt at the Verkhovna Rada rostrum , intimidate people with claims that China would come and buy all our farmland , taking it out by rail .
Throughout this time , almost a million landowners died so they will never become real owners of their land , '' he said .
Read alsoConstitutional Court puts off hearings on farmland market indefinitelyAt the same time , Zelensky says the gray market and dozens of illegal ways to sell farmland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place despite a moratorium on farmland sale .
On April 28 , 2020 , Zelensky enacted the law amending certain legislative acts on farmland circulation ( No .
552-IX ) , approved by the Verkhovna Rada on March 31 , 2020 .
The law provides for phased land reform : from July 1 , 2021 , only citizens of Ukraine will be able to buy up to 100 hectares of farmand .
During the second stage to be launched on January 1 , 2024 , the cap will rise to 10,000 ha , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the market .

Zelensky: Farmland remains cheap over lack of transparent market
16:55, 15.10.20 1609
The law on the farmland market passed this year will change the situation for the better, the president believes.
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unian--2020-10-15--Ukraine reports 70 new COVID-19 cases in armed forces as of Oct 15

Some 564 servicemen are now isolated ( including self-isolation ) .
The number of COVID-19 coronavirus cases registered in the Armed Forces of Ukraine rose by 70 as of the morning of October 15 .
Read alsoGovernment reviews quarantine zones in Ukraine : Kyiv remains in `` orange zone '' '' As of 10:00 Kyiv time on October 13 , some 911 people in the Armed Forces of Ukraine had acute respiratory illness COVID-19 caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus .
In total , 3,074 people have recovered and 11 have died during the pandemic , '' the press service of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Forces of Ukraine wrote on Facebook on October 15 .
`` Some 70 new COVID-19 cases were registered in the past 24 hours . ''
Of those newly-infected , nine people have been hospitalized , while another 61 are self-isolating , undergoing treatment at home under doctors ' supervision .
Currently , their state of health is satisfactory .
Some 564 servicemen are now isolated ( including self-isolation ) .
The number of those whose isolation term is expiring in the next three days is 92 people .
• Ukraine said 5,062 new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country in the past 24 hours as of October 15 , 2020 .
• The total number of confirmed cases grew to 281,239 .

Some 564 servicemen are now isolated (including self-isolation).
The number of COVID-19 coronavirus cases registered in the Armed Forces of Ukraine rose by 70 as of the morning of October 15.
Read alsoGovernment reviews quarantine zones in Ukraine: Kyiv remains in "orange zone""As of 10:00 Kyiv time on October 15, some 911 people in the Armed Forces of Ukraine had acute respiratory illness COVID-19 caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. In total, 3,074 people have recovered and 11 have died during the pandemic," the press service of the Medical Force Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine wrote on Facebook on October 15. "Some 70 new COVID-19 cases were registered in the past 24 hours."
Of those newly-infected, nine people have been hospitalized, while another 61 are self-isolating, undergoing treatment at home under doctors' supervision. Currently, their state of health is satisfactory.
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Some 564 servicemen are now isolated (including self-isolation). The number of those whose isolation term is expiring in the next three days is 92 people.
COVID-19 in Ukraine: Latest


unian--2020-10-15--Dutch FM comments on Russia's withdrawal from MH17 talks

The Netherlands does not rule out any options to achieve justice for the 298 victims and their loved ones .
Dutch Foreign Minister Stef Blok has said the Netherlands regrets Russia 's decision to withdraw from talks on liability for the downing of Malaysian Airlines flight MH17 in Donbas in 2014 .
Read alsoRelatives of MH17 crash to seek damages from suspects , lawyers say – media '' Today , the Russian Federation has announced its unilateral decision to suspend negotiations over its responsibility for the downing Flight MH17 .
The Netherlands deeply regrets this decision on the part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the talks is especially painful for the victims ' next of kin , '' he wrote on Twitter , October 15 .
Meanwhile , the government would like to emphasize that it is willing to resume negotiations , so as to reach a solution that does justice to the tremendous suffering and damage caused by the downing of Flight MH17 .
`` At the same time , the government has always stressed that it does not rule out any options to achieve justice for the 298 victims and their loved ones , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MH17 Boeing 777 heading from Amsterdam for Kuala Lumpur was shot down on July 17 , 2014 , over Russia-occupied territory in Donetsk region .
All 298 people on board who were citizens of 10 countries were killed in the crash .
The majority of the victims , 196 , were citizens of the Netherlands .
The Dutch Safety Board October 13 , 2015 , issued a report on the causes of the accident .
It was revealed that the plane had been shot down by a Buk anti-aircraft missile system .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in its report published on September 28 , 2016 , confirmed that the plane had been downed by a Russian-made Buk brought to Ukraine from Russia .
• On June 19 , 2019 , JIT investigators accused four Russia-controlled military intelligence officers of involvement in a missile attack that shot down MH17 .
The first four suspects in the MH17 case are Russian terrorist Igor Girkin ( AKA `` Strelkov '' ) , who in the summer of 2014 was the so-called `` Minister of Defense of the Donetsk People 's Republic '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ General Sergei Dubinsky ( nom de guerre `` Khmuryi '' ) , who led the `` DPR intelligence ; '' Oleg Pulatov ( nom de guerre `` Gyurza '' ) , who in 2014 headed of `` the 2nd division of the GRU of the DPR ; '' as well as Leonid Kharchenko ( nom de guerre `` Krot '' ) , who was a leader of the `` reconnaissance battalion '' of Russia-led forces .

The Netherlands does not rule out any options to achieve justice for the 298 victims and their loved ones.
Dutch Foreign Minister Stef Blok has said the Netherlands regrets Russia's decision to withdraw from talks on liability for the downing of Malaysian Airlines flight MH17 in Donbas in 2014.
Read alsoRelatives of MH17 crash to seek damages from suspects, lawyers say – media"Today, the Russian Federation has announced its unilateral decision to suspend negotiations over its responsibility for the downing Flight MH17. The Netherlands deeply regrets this decision on the part of Russia. This refusal to continue with the talks is especially painful for the victims' next of kin," he wrote on Twitter, October 15.
Meanwhile, the government would like to emphasize that it is willing to resume negotiations, so as to reach a solution that does justice to the tremendous suffering and damage caused by the downing of Flight MH17.
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"At the same time, the government has always stressed that it does not rule out any options to achieve justice for the 298 victims and their loved ones," he added.
Background


unian--2020-10-15--Government reviews quarantine zones in Ukraine: Kyiv remains in "orange zone"

The cities of Ivano-Frankivsk , Poltava , Sumy , Ternopil , Khmelnytsky , Chernivtsi , and Chernihiv have been put into the `` red '' quarantine zone .
Minister of the Cabinet of Ministers Oleh Nemchynov has says a new epidemic zoning will be enforced at 00:00 on Monday , October 19 , while the capital city of Kyiv will remain in the `` orange '' quarantine zone .
Read alsoCOVID-19 in Kyiv : Official comments on prospects of `` red zone '' lockdown '' Today an extraordinary meeting of the National Commission on Technogenic and Environmental Safety and took @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be enforced at 00:00 on October 19 ( Monday ) , '' he said on Telegram on October 15 .
Nemchynov added that the city of Kyiv remained in the `` orange '' zone .
• The towns of Volodymyr-Volynsky and Novovolynsk , Volodymyr-Volynsky and Lutsk districts of Volyn region ; • The town of Sloviansk in Donetsk region ; • The town of Korosten , Luhyn , Liubar , Chernyakhivsky and Chudnivsky districts of Zhytomyr region ; • The town of Vasylkiv and Boryspil district of Kyiv region ; • The towns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Belovodsky , Belokurakinsky , Kreminsky , Markivsky , Milovsky , Novoaydarsky , Novopskovsky , Popasnyansky , Svatovsky , Stanychno-Luhansky , Starobilsky and Troitsky districts of Luhansk region ; • The town of Belyaivka and Tatarbunary district of Odesa region ; • The towns of Dubno , Varash , and Ostroh , as well as Zdolbuniv and Kostopil districts of Rivne region ; • The city of Sumy and Sumy district of the region ; • The city of Ternopil , the towns of Berezhany , Kremenets and Chortkiv , Borshchiv , Zalishchyk , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • The city of Kharkiv and the town of Lyubotin , Bogodukhovsky , Lozivsky and Pervomaysky districts of Kharkiv region ; • The city of Khmelnytsky and the towns of Netyshyn , Slavuta and Volochysk ; Horodotsky , Dunayevetsky , Kamenets-Podilsky , Starosinyavsky and Teofipolsky districts of Khmelnytsky region ; • The towns of Kaniv and Smila , and Smilyansky district of Cherkasy region ; • The city of Chernivtsi and the town of Novodnistrovsk ; Kelmenetsky and Kitsmansky districts of Chernivtsi region ; and • The city Chernihiv and the town of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ August 1 , new rules for adaptive quarantine were enforced in Ukraine .
All regions were divided into `` green '' , `` yellow '' , `` orange '' , and `` red '' zones according to the level of the epidemic threat .
• On October 13 , the Cabinet of Ministers extended the adaptive quarantine until the end of the year , passing certain changes to regulations .
• Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said it was a `` necessary step , '' adding that such quarantine is `` the most effective @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and beyond .

The cities of Ivano-Frankivsk, Poltava, Sumy, Ternopil, Khmelnytsky, Chernivtsi, and Chernihiv have been put into the "red" quarantine zone.
Minister of the Cabinet of Ministers Oleh Nemchynov has says a new epidemic zoning will be enforced at 00:00 on Monday, October 19, while the capital city of Kyiv will remain in the "orange" quarantine zone.
Read alsoCOVID-19 in Kyiv: Official comments on prospects of "red zone" lockdown"Today an extraordinary meeting of the National Commission on Technogenic and Environmental Safety and took place. A new epidemic zoning will be enforced at 00:00 on October 19 (Monday)," he said on Telegram on October 15.
Nemchynov added that the city of Kyiv remained in the "orange" zone.
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The red zone includes:
The towns of Volodymyr-Volynsky and Novovolynsk, Volodymyr-Volynsky and Lutsk districts of Volyn region;
The town of Sloviansk in Donetsk region;
The town of Korosten, Luhyn, Liubar, Chernyakhivsky and Chudnivsky districts of Zhytomyr region;
The city of Ivano-Frankivsk;
The town of Vasylkiv and Boryspil district of Kyiv region;
The towns of Lysychansk, Rubizhne and Severodonetsk, Belovodsky, Belokurakinsky, Kreminsky, Markivsky, Milovsky, Novoaydarsky, Novopskovsky, Popasnyansky, Svatovsky, Stanychno-Luhansky, Starobilsky and Troitsky districts of Luhansk region;
The town of Belyaivka and Tatarbunary district of Odesa region;
The city of Poltava;
The towns of Dubno, Varash, and Ostroh, as well as Zdolbuniv and Kostopil districts of Rivne region;
The city of Sumy and Sumy district of the region;
The city of Ternopil, the towns of Berezhany, Kremenets and Chortkiv, Borshchiv, Zalishchyk, and Monastyrysky districts of Ternopil region;
The city of Kharkiv and the town of Lyubotin, Bogodukhovsky, Lozivsky and Pervomaysky districts of Kharkiv region;
The city of Khmelnytsky and the towns of Netyshyn, Slavuta and Volochysk; Horodotsky, Dunayevetsky, Kamenets-Podilsky, Starosinyavsky and Teofipolsky districts of Khmelnytsky region;
The towns of Kaniv and Smila, and Smilyansky district of Cherkasy region;
The city of Chernivtsi and the town of Novodnistrovsk; Kelmenetsky and Kitsmansky districts of Chernivtsi region; and
The city of Chernihiv and the town of Nizhyn in Chernihiv region.
Quarantine in Ukraine: Background


unian--2020-10-15--Canada slaps additional sanctions on Belarusian officials

The second set of sanctions is being adopted in coordination with recent actions taken by the EU and the U.S. Canada has slapped additional sanctions on 31 Belarusian officials of incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko 's regime in response to gross and systematic human rights violations that have been committed in Belarus .
Read alsoFM Kuleba reveals details of upcoming sanctions against Lukashenko 's regime '' Following the adoption of a first set of targeted sanctions in coordination with the United Kingdom on September 29 , the Government of Canada is today listing an additional 31 Belarusian officials under the Special @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This second set of sanctions is being adopted in coordination with recent actions taken by the European Union and the United States , '' the press service of the Canadian Government said in a statement on October 15 .
`` Today 's actions support wider international efforts to seek a diplomatic resolution to the crisis in Belarus .
By demonstrating our firm resolve on sanctions , we strengthen our collective ability to pressure government officials in Belarus to heed the demands of the Belarusian people .
Canada continues to stand in solidarity with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to restore human rights and achieve democracy in their country , '' the press service quoted Canada 's Minister of Foreign Affairs François-Philippe Champagne as saying .
• On September 29 , the United Kingdom and Canada imposed sanctions on Alexander Lukashenko , his son Viktor , and six other Belarusian officials .
• On October 2 , the European Union officially slapped sanctions on 40 senior officials of the Lukashenko regime involved in suppressing peaceful protests and rigging the presidential election campaign in Belarus .
Lukashenko was not put on the list @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the United States imposed sanctions on eight Belarusian officials .

The second set of sanctions is being adopted in coordination with recent actions taken by the EU and the U.S.
Canada has slapped additional sanctions on 31 Belarusian officials of incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko's regime in response to gross and systematic human rights violations that have been committed in Belarus.
Read alsoFM Kuleba reveals details of upcoming sanctions against Lukashenko's regime"Following the adoption of a first set of targeted sanctions in coordination with the United Kingdom on September 29, the Government of Canada is today listing an additional 31 Belarusian officials under the Special Economic Measures (Belarus) Regulations. This second set of sanctions is being adopted in coordination with recent actions taken by the European Union and the United States," the press service of the Canadian Government said in a statement on October 15.
"Today's actions support wider international efforts to seek a diplomatic resolution to the crisis in Belarus. By demonstrating our firm resolve on sanctions, we strengthen our collective ability to pressure government officials in Belarus to heed the demands of the Belarusian people. Canada continues to stand in solidarity with the people of Belarus as they struggle to restore human rights and achieve democracy in their country," the press service quoted Canada's Minister of Foreign Affairs François-Philippe Champagne as saying.
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Sanctions targeting the Lukashenko regime


unian--2020-10-15--Hryvnia weakens to U.S. dollar on Sept 16

The official forex rate against the euro for Friday is fixed at UAH 33.18 per euro .
The National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) has set the official forex rate for October 16 at UAH 28.34 to the U.S. dollar , thus weakening the country 's national currency by two kopiykas .
Read alsoLegislator talks of possible hryvnia rate by year-endThe official forex rate against the euro for Friday is fixed at UAH 33.18 per euro – the hryvnia gained 21 kopiykas in value since Thursday , according to the NBU website .
The central bank has fixed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against key foreign currencies for October 16 : US $ 100 will be quoted at UAH 2,833.65 ( UAH 2,831.64 as of October 15 ) ; EUR 100 will be quoted at UAH 3,317.64 ( UAH 3,339.35 as of October 15 ) .
By 16:00 Kyiv time on October 9 , hryvnia quotations against the dollar on the interbank forex market settled at UAH 28.34/28.35 to the dollar , while those against the euro were at UAH 33.17/33.19 .
The National Bank set the official forex rate for October 15 at UAH 28.32 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country 's national currency weaken by seven kopiykas .

Hryvnia weakens to U.S. dollar on Sept 16
17:50, 15.10.20 22181
The official forex rate against the euro for Friday is fixed at UAH 33.18 per euro.
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unian--2020-10-16--Ukraine explains timing for raising issue of security assurances under Budapest Memo

Further non-fulfillment of Memo 's provisions could block the achievement of new diplomatic solutions in the field of global security .
The President 's Office says raising the issue in the international arena regarding security assurances to Ukraine under the Budapest Memorandum may help the state create much stronger negotiating positions regarding the end of occupation of Donbas and Crimea .
`` Analyzing the Budapest Memorandum , we come to the conclusion that security assurances to Ukraine had been violated long before 2014 [ the year of Crimea annexation and the onset of Russian aggression in Donbas ] .
For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well-known border scuffle in 2003 – the conflict over the Island of Tuzla , which threatened the territorial integrity of Ukraine .
The so-called gas wars are no less dangerous , being a manifestation of deliberate economic pressure aimed at subordinating Ukraine to their own interests , '' according to the press service .
It is noted that the world did not react properly to such violations of obligations by one of the signatories , which have expanded over the years , eventually leading to direct armed aggression .
`` Moreover , such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine will call into question for any other state the weight of the signatures and promises by representatives of guarantor states under the Budapest Memorandum .
Who will then fulfill other similar agreements ?
Ignoring the obligations to Ukraine by signatory states under the Budapest Memorandum casts doubt on the entire concept of international treaties on non-proliferation and control of weapons of mass destruction , '' reads the report .
Today the global task of nuclear non-proliferation remains significant , as well as the emergence of new international treaties guaranteeing security of individual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nuclear weapons or intentions to produce them .
Read alsoDonbas settlement : Russia snubs at Budapest memo referencesZelensky 's Office also notes the need to update provisions of the Budapest Memo .
Its further non-fulfillment could block the achievement of new diplomatic solutions in the field of global security .
`` Taking into account the duration of violations by one of the signatory states of its obligations , laid down in the Memorandum , we insist on the need for joint work of other guarantor states to restore security and territorial integrity of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` We are forced to remind nothing has actually been done by the then Ukrainian authorities for five years since 2014 to prepare for the end of occupation of Crimea .
The Crimean and Donbas cases were also separated in the negotiations .
Updating the provisions of the Budapest Memorandum may help our state restore the lost opportunities over time , creating much stronger joint negotiating positions regarding Donetsk , Luhansk and Crimea , '' the President 's Office said .
On October 13 , Zelensky said an all-Ukrainian poll with five important @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carried out on local election day , October 25 .
The poll , unlike the referendum , will have no direct legal implications , the President 's Office explained , addressing public concern over the legitimacy of holding such a survey and its consequences .
On October 14 , Zelensky announced the first out of five questions and on October 15 he revealed the second one .
On October 16 , Zelensky voiced the remaining three questions .
Questions concern parliament size , medical marijuana legalization , and Budapest Memorandum .
The Budapest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1994 .
According to the document , Ukraine received guarantees of territorial integrity in exchange for renouncing its nuclear status .
The memorandum was signed by the leaders of Ukraine , the United States , Russia , and the United Kingdom .
Later , it was signed by China and France .

Further non-fulfillment of Memo's provisions could block the achievement of new diplomatic solutions in the field of global security.
The President's Office says raising the issue in the international arena regarding security assurances to Ukraine under the Budapest Memorandum may help the state create much stronger negotiating positions regarding the end of occupation of Donbas and Crimea.
"Analyzing the Budapest Memorandum, we come to the conclusion that security assurances to Ukraine had been violated long before 2014 [the year of Crimea annexation and the onset of Russian aggression in Donbas]. For example, it is worth recalling the well-known border scuffle in 2003 – the conflict over the Island of Tuzla, which threatened the territorial integrity of Ukraine. The so-called gas wars are no less dangerous, being a manifestation of deliberate economic pressure aimed at subordinating Ukraine to their own interests," according to the press service.
It is noted that the world did not react properly to such violations of obligations by one of the signatories, which have expanded over the years, eventually leading to direct armed aggression.
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"Moreover, such a blatant disregard for security obligations to Ukraine will call into question for any other state the weight of the signatures and promises by representatives of guarantor states under the Budapest Memorandum. Who will then fulfill other similar agreements? Ignoring the obligations to Ukraine by signatory states under the Budapest Memorandum casts doubt on the entire concept of international treaties on non-proliferation and control of weapons of mass destruction," reads the report.
Today the global task of nuclear non-proliferation remains significant, as well as the emergence of new international treaties guaranteeing security of individual states in the event of renunciation of nuclear weapons or intentions to produce them.
Read alsoDonbas settlement: Russia snubs at Budapest memo referencesZelensky's Office also notes the need to update provisions of the Budapest Memo. Its further non-fulfillment could block the achievement of new diplomatic solutions in the field of global security.
"Taking into account the duration of violations by one of the signatory states of its obligations, laid down in the Memorandum, we insist on the need for joint work of other guarantor states to restore security and territorial integrity of Ukraine," the report says.
"We are forced to remind nothing has actually been done by the then Ukrainian authorities for five years since 2014 to prepare for the end of occupation of Crimea. The Crimean and Donbas cases were also separated in the negotiations. Updating the provisions of the Budapest Memorandum may help our state restore the lost opportunities over time, creating much stronger joint negotiating positions regarding Donetsk, Luhansk and Crimea," the President's Office said.
Zelensky's poll: Background
On October 13, Zelensky said an all-Ukrainian poll with five important issues to be out forward would be carried out on local election day, October 25.
The poll, unlike the referendum, will have no direct legal implications, the President's Office explained, addressing public concern over the legitimacy of holding such a survey and its consequences.
On October 14, Zelensky announced the first out of five questions and on October 15 he revealed the second one.
On October 16, Zelensky voiced the remaining three questions. Questions concern parliament size, medical marijuana legalization, and Budapest Memorandum.
UNIAN memo
The Budapest Memorandum was signed on December 5, 1994. According to the document, Ukraine received guarantees of territorial integrity in exchange for renouncing its nuclear status. The memorandum was signed by the leaders of Ukraine, the United States, Russia, and the United Kingdom. Later, it was signed by China and France.