unian--2020-02-11--Seed imports into Ukraine exceed exports by 34 times in 11 months of 2019

Agri-businesses ' demand for seeds was on the rise in 2019 .
Ukraine in January-November 2019 imported 32,500 tonnes of grain seeds and 42,000 tonnes of oilseeds to the tune of US $ 427.8 million , which was almost 34 times up from exports of Ukrainian seeds worth US $ 12.7 million over the said period .
`` The trend towards an increase in seeds imports , which has been observed in Ukraine since 2015 , and continued in the past year , is the result of a sharp increase in demand from holding companies , as well as large- @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service of the National Scientific Center `` Institute of Agrarian Economics '' quoted Doctor of Economics Oleksandr Zakharchuk , as saying on February 10 .
At the same time , large foreign seed companies have built their plants in Ukraine to sell locally produced seeds to local farmers to circumvent imports , the expert says .
Read alsoUkrainian farmers thresh 75.2 mln tonnes of grain , leguminous crops as of Dec 10 In 2019 , maize seeds accounted for the lion 's share ( 90 % ) of grain imports into Ukraine , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of wheat seeds .
The share of sunflower in oilseeds imports was 70 % , or 29,600 tonnes .
Ukraine also purchased 9,100 tonnes of rapeseeds and 1,100 tonnes of soybeans .
In addition , there is still a trend towards increasing imports of sugar beet seeds and those of other vegetables .
`` In January-November 2019 , nearly 600 tonnes of sugar beet seeds were purchased for US $ 18.3 million , which makes it possible to sow almost all the area under sugar beets in Ukraine .
Imports of vegetable seeds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year-over-year , to US $ 22.7 million .
Purchases of seeds of niche crops , in particular , sorghum , flax , and mustard , increased as well , '' the report said .
Prices of imported sunflower seeds in 2019 dropped by more than US $ 1,000 per tonne against 2018 , the press service added .
`` Some US $ 7,573 should have been paid per tonne of seeds , compared to US $ 8,643 in 2018 , or 12.4 % down , '' it said .
In the 11 months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rose by 1.8 % , to US $ 4,023 per tonne , those of soybeans by 21.7 % , to US $ 1,848 , while rapeseed prices grew by 18.2 % , to US $ 4,063 .
`` Thus , the increase in the value of imports also occurs due to growing prices of imported seeds , which are already several times higher than those of domestic ones , '' Zakharchuk summed up .

Seed imports into Ukraine exceed exports by 34 times in 11 months of 2019
14:29, 11.02.20 714
Agri-businesses' demand for seeds was on the rise in 2019.
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unian--2020-02-11--The Guardian: Coronavirus 'could infect 60% of global population if unchecked'

If China 's lockdown has not worked , there is another unpalatable truth to face : that the coronavirus might not be possible to contain .
The coronavirus epidemic could spread to about two-thirds of the world 's population if it can not be controlled , according to Hong Kong 's leading public health epidemiologist .
His warning came after the head of the World Health Organization ( WHO ) said recent cases of coronavirus patients who had never visited China could be the `` tip of the iceberg , '' The Guardian wrote .
Prof Gabriel Leung , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kong University , said the overriding question was to figure out the size and shape of the iceberg .
Most experts thought that each person infected would go on to transmit the virus to about 2.5 other people .
That gave an `` attack rate '' of 60-80 % .
`` Sixty per cent of the world 's population is an awfully big number , '' Leung told the Guardian in London , en route to an expert meeting at the WHO in Geneva on Tuesday .
Read alsoCoronavirus : China gets back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – media Even if the general fatality rate is as low as 1 % , which Leung thinks is possible once milder cases are taken into account , the death toll would be massive .
He will tell the WHO meeting that the main issue is the scale of the growing worldwide epidemic and the second priority is to find out whether the drastic measures taken by China to prevent the spread have worked – because if so , other countries should think about adopting them .
The Geneva meeting brings together more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including some participating by video conference from mainland China and Taiwan .
`` With 99 % of cases in China , this remains very much an emergency for that country , but one that holds a very grave threat for the rest of the world , '' the WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in his opening remarks .
To date China has reported 42,708 confirmed cases , including 1,017 deaths , Tedros said .
Leung – one of the world 's experts on coronavirus epidemics , who played a major role in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closely with other leading scientists such as counterparts at Imperial College London and Oxford University .
Read alsoAnother Ukrainian on board Diamond Princess gets infected with coronavirus – MFA At the end of January , he warned in a paper in the Lancet that outbreaks were likely to be `` growing exponentially '' in cities in China , lagging just one to two weeks behind Wuhan .
Elsewhere , `` independent self-sustaining outbreaks in major cities globally could become inevitable '' because of the substantial movement of people who were infected but had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ absence of public health measures to stop the spread .
Epidemiologists and modellers were trying to figure out what was likely to happen , said Leung .
`` Is 60-80 % of the world 's population going to get infected ?
Maybe not .
Maybe this will come in waves .
Maybe the virus is going to attenuate its lethality because it certainly does n't help it if it kills everybody in its path , because it will get killed as well , '' he said .
Experts also need to know whether @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and other cities have reduced infections .
`` Have these massive public health interventions , social distancing , and mobility restrictions worked in China ? ''
he asked .
`` If so , how can we roll them out , or is it not possible ? ''
There would be difficulties .
`` Let 's assume that they have worked .
But how long can you close schools for ?
How long can you lock down an entire city for ?
How long can you keep people away from shopping malls ?
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , then is it all going to come right back and rage again ?
So those are very real questions , '' he said .
If China 's lockdown has not worked , there is another unpalatable truth to face : that the coronavirus might not be possible to contain .
Then the world will have to switch tracks : instead of trying to contain the virus , it will have to work to mitigate its effects .

If China's lockdown has not worked, there is another unpalatable truth to face: that the coronavirus might not be possible to contain.
The coronavirus epidemic could spread to about two-thirds of the world's population if it cannot be controlled, according to Hong Kong's leading public health epidemiologist.
His warning came after the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) said recent cases of coronavirus patients who had never visited China could be the "tip of the iceberg," The Guardian wrote.
Prof Gabriel Leung, the chair of public health medicine at Hong Kong University, said the overriding question was to figure out the size and shape of the iceberg. Most experts thought that each person infected would go on to transmit the virus to about 2.5 other people. That gave an "attack rate" of 60-80%.
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"Sixty per cent of the world's population is an awfully big number," Leung told the Guardian in London, en route to an expert meeting at the WHO in Geneva on Tuesday.
Read alsoCoronavirus: China gets back to work as death toll reaches 1,018 – media
Even if the general fatality rate is as low as 1%, which Leung thinks is possible once milder cases are taken into account, the death toll would be massive.
He will tell the WHO meeting that the main issue is the scale of the growing worldwide epidemic and the second priority is to find out whether the drastic measures taken by China to prevent the spread have worked – because if so, other countries should think about adopting them.
The Geneva meeting brings together more than 400 researchers and national authorities, including some participating by video conference from mainland China and Taiwan. "With 99% of cases in China, this remains very much an emergency for that country, but one that holds a very grave threat for the rest of the world," the WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in his opening remarks. To date China has reported 42,708 confirmed cases, including 1,017 deaths, Tedros said.
Leung – one of the world's experts on coronavirus epidemics, who played a major role in the Sars outbreak in 2002-03 – works closely with other leading scientists such as counterparts at Imperial College London and Oxford University.
Read alsoAnother Ukrainian on board Diamond Princess gets infected with coronavirus – MFA
At the end of January, he warned in a paper in the Lancet that outbreaks were likely to be "growing exponentially" in cities in China, lagging just one to two weeks behind Wuhan. Elsewhere, "independent self-sustaining outbreaks in major cities globally could become inevitable" because of the substantial movement of people who were infected but had not yet developed symptoms, and the absence of public health measures to stop the spread.
Epidemiologists and modellers were trying to figure out what was likely to happen, said Leung. "Is 60-80% of the world's population going to get infected? Maybe not. Maybe this will come in waves. Maybe the virus is going to attenuate its lethality because it certainly doesn't help it if it kills everybody in its path, because it will get killed as well," he said.
Experts also need to know whether the restrictions in the centre of Wuhan and other cities have reduced infections. "Have these massive public health interventions, social distancing, and mobility restrictions worked in China?" he asked. "If so, how can we roll them out, or is it not possible?"
There would be difficulties. "Let's assume that they have worked. But how long can you close schools for? How long can you lock down an entire city for? How long can you keep people away from shopping malls? And if you remove those [restrictions], then is it all going to come right back and rage again? So those are very real questions," he said.
If China's lockdown has not worked, there is another unpalatable truth to face: that the coronavirus might not be possible to contain. Then the world will have to switch tracks: instead of trying to contain the virus, it will have to work to mitigate its effects.


unian--2020-02-11--EU to remove Azarov, Stavytskiy from sanctions list – journalist

At the same time , former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych and his son will remain on the list .
Brussels-based @ @ @ @ @ the European Union has decided to remove former Ukrainian Prime Minister Mykola Azarov and former @ @ @ @ @ the sanctions list .
Read alsoEU adds seven individuals to sanctions list for holding Russia @ @ @ @ @ [ T ] here is agreement to remove the former PM of Ukraine Azarov & @ @ @ @ @ from the EU sanctions list .
Oleksandr Yanukovych will remain on the list for 6 @ @ @ @ @ incl .
his father , for 12 months .
[ It ] should be confirmed @ @ @ @ @ journalist wrote on Twitter on February 11 , 2020 .
As UNIAN reported earlier , @ @ @ @ @ , 2014 , froze assets of former Ukrainian officials in office during Yanukovych 's presidency @ @ @ @ @ and human rights violations .
In December 2018 , the Court of Justice of the @ @ @ @ @ against Azarov .

At the same time, former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych and his son will remain on the list.
Brussels-based RFE/RL journalist Rikard Jozwiak says the European Union has decided to remove former Ukrainian Prime Minister Mykola Azarov and former Energy Minister Eduard Stavytskiy from the sanctions list.
Read alsoEU adds seven individuals to sanctions list for holding Russia elections in occupied Crimea
"[T]here is agreement to remove the former PM of Ukraine Azarov & the ex energy minister Stavytskiy from the EU sanctions list. Oleksandr Yanukovych will remain on the list for 6 months. 9 others, incl. his father, for 12 months. [It] should be confirmed next week," the journalist wrote on Twitter on February 11, 2020.
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As UNIAN reported earlier, the EU on March 6, 2014, froze assets of former Ukrainian officials in office during Yanukovych's presidency for misuse of public funds and human rights violations.
In December 2018, the Court of Justice of the European Union cancelled restrictive measures against Azarov.


unian--2020-02-11--Ukrainian Startup Fund to provide grants to first eight projects

The next Pitch Day will be held in early March .
Ukraine 's Finance Ministry says the Supervisory Board of the Ukrainian Startup Fund has decided to provide grants to the first eight projects that presented their ideas at the first Pitch Day on January 25 .
Read alsoUkraine 's fintech startups to be able to enter Japan Seed grants ( worth UAH 1.25 million/US $ 50,979 each ) will be provided to the following companies : GeoDesign.info ( an online analytical center providing information about benefits and risks of opening a store/café/beauty salon depending on location ) ; FieldBI @ @ @ @ @ @ @ improving decision performance ) ; Framiore ( women 's clothing brand with its own sewing production ) , the ministry 's press service said on February 7 .
Pytag ( an analytical platform for grain trade ) ; and The next Pitch Day will be held in early March , the press service said .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Ukraine 's Cabinet of Ministers in December 2019 announced it had begun accepting applications from entrepreneurs for financing from the Ukrainian Startup Fund , which will sponsor creative companies that need resources .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fund is expected to have UAH 440 million ( US $ 17.9 million ) in grants .
The fund finances almost all areas except gambling , the production of hazardous substances , alcohol and tobacco production , as well as military and nuclear technologies .

Ukrainian Startup Fund to provide grants to first eight projects
13:16, 11.02.20 694
The next Pitch Day will be held in early March.
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unian--2020-02-11--Zelensky's aide Yermak appointed Head of President's Office

Before the appointment , Zelensky dismissed Yermak from the post of his aide .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appointed @ @ @ @ @ the President 's Office .
Relevant decree No .
48/2020 is available on the president @ @ @ @ @ appoint Andriy Borysovych Yermak as Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine , @ @ @ @ @ Before the appointment , Zelensky dismissed Yermak from the post of aide to the president @

Before the appointment, Zelensky dismissed Yermak from the post of his aide.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appointed Andriy Yermak as Head of the President's Office.
Read alsoZelensky dismisses Head of President's Office Bohdan
Relevant decree No. 48/2020 is available on the president's website.
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"To appoint Andriy Borysovych Yermak as Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine," the document says.
Before the appointment, Zelensky dismissed Yermak from the post of aide to the president.


unian--2020-02-11--Zelensky dismisses Head of President's Office Bohdan

Relevant decree No .
46/2020 is available on the president 's website .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed Head @ @ @ @ @ Andriy Bohdan .
Read also '' Anything is possible '' : Parl't Speaker Razumkov on @ @ @ @ @ Bohdan 's alleged stepdown Relevant decree No .
46/2020 is available on the president 's @ @ @ @ @ Andriy Iosyfovych Bohdan as Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine , '' @ @ @ @ @ was appointed to the post on May 21 , 2019 .
Prior to that , @ @ @ @ @ businessman Ihor Kolomoisky 's personal lawyer since 2015 .

Relevant decree No. 46/2020 is available on the president's website.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed Head of the President's Office Andriy Bohdan.
Read also"Anything is possible": Parl't Speaker Razumkov on reports on Presidential Office chief Bohdan's alleged stepdown
Relevant decree No. 46/2020 is available on the president's website.
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"To dismiss Andriy Iosyfovych Bohdan as Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine," the decree says.
Bohdan was appointed to the post on May 21, 2019. Prior to that, he had served as Ukrainian businessman Ihor Kolomoisky's personal lawyer since 2015.


unian--2020-02-11--Bad weather leaves 380 towns and villages in Ukraine without power

Regional energy distribution companies have deployed their repair teams to eliminate the aftermath of the blackouts .
Some 380 towns @ @ @ @ @ 11 regions have reported power cuts after the power line safety system was activated amid @ @ @ @ @ wet snow and strong winds .
Read alsoBad weather leaves 602 towns and villages in @ @ @ @ @ , the electricity supply was disrupted in 93 towns and villages in Ivano-Frankivsk region , @ @ @ @ @ 47 in Chernihiv region , 42 in Poltava region , 40 in Sumy region , @ @ @ @ @ 20 in Cherkasy region , 17 in Odesa region , 10 in Dnipropetrovsk region , @ @ @ @ @ and five in Zakarpattia region , the State Emergency Service 's press service has said @ @ @ @ @ have deployed their repair teams to eliminate the aftermath of the blackouts .
In addition @ @ @ @ @ the roof of 101 buildings in Lviv and Ivano-Frankivsk regions .
The municipal services are @ @ @ @ @ facilities .

Regional energy distribution companies have deployed their repair teams to eliminate the aftermath of the blackouts.
Some 380 towns and villages in Ukraine's 11 regions have reported power cuts after the power line safety system was activated amid the bad weather, namely wet snow and strong winds.
Read alsoBad weather leaves 602 towns and villages in Ukraine without power
In particular, the electricity supply was disrupted in 93 towns and villages in Ivano-Frankivsk region, 75 in Lviv region, 47 in Chernihiv region, 42 in Poltava region, 40 in Sumy region, 24 in Kyiv region, 20 in Cherkasy region, 17 in Odesa region, 10 in Dnipropetrovsk region, seven in Kirovohrad region, and five in Zakarpattia region, the State Emergency Service's press service has said.
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Regional energy distribution companies have deployed their repair teams to eliminate the aftermath of the blackouts.
In addition, wind gusts partly damaged the roof of 101 buildings in Lviv and Ivano-Frankivsk regions. The municipal services are taking measures to repair the facilities.


unian--2020-02-11--Ukraine's SBU establishes who ordered arson attack on RFE/RL correspondent's car in Lviv

The alleged organizer is currently hiding abroad .
SBU Security Service officers jointly with prosecutors have established the probable customer of an arson attack on RFE/RL correspondent Halyna Tereshchuk 's car in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv last month .
A resident of Lviv previously convicted and known in the criminal world for smuggling schemes and fuel theft from the Lviv railways is suspected of ordering the crime , the SBU 's press center said .
According to a theory being considered by the investigation , he hired a Lviv police officer for organizing the arson attack .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ handed over the money for the `` work done . ''
The probable organizer is currently hiding from the investigation abroad .
He was informed of suspicion in absentia and put on the international wanted list .
The respective criminal proceedings have been initiated .
Preventive measures against the customer and the police officer are to be decided .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Tereshchuk 's car was set on fire and completely destroyed on the night of January 29 .
Tereshchuk , who has worked for RFE/RL since 2000 , said at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was linked to her professional activities .

The alleged organizer is currently hiding abroad.
SBU Security Service officers jointly with prosecutors have established the probable customer of an arson attack on RFE/RL correspondent Halyna Tereshchuk's car in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv last month.
Read alsoRFE/RL correspondent's car set on fire in Lviv – media (Photos)
A resident of Lviv previously convicted and known in the criminal world for smuggling schemes and fuel theft from the Lviv railways is suspected of ordering the crime, the SBU's press center said.
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According to a theory being considered by the investigation, he hired a Lviv police officer for organizing the arson attack. The police officer picked up the performer and handed over the money for the "work done." The probable organizer is currently hiding from the investigation abroad. He was informed of suspicion in absentia and put on the international wanted list.
The respective criminal proceedings have been initiated. Preventive measures against the customer and the police officer are to be decided.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Tereshchuk's car was set on fire and completely destroyed on the night of January 29. Tereshchuk, who has worked for RFE/RL since 2000, said at the time that she suspected the attack was linked to her professional activities.


unian--2020-02-11--Zelensky's aide announces president's "historic" visit to U.S.

The dates will be announced soon .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky 's aide Andriy Yermak has said the date of Zelensky 's official visit to the United States , which may become a `` historic '' one , is still unknown .
Read alsoZelensky thanks Pompeo for continuous support of Ukraine '' There are no dates yet .
[ U.S. Secretary of State ] Mr. Pompeo said [ during a recent visit to Kyiv ] they should become known in the near future .
I think they will complete all internal procedures related to [ the failed ] impeachment [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we should get the dates of the visit in the near future .
This will be a historic visit by President Zelensky to the United States , '' he told Ukraine 24 TV channel .
Yermak expressed the opinion that Pompeo 's visit had become another step that indicated the transition of the bilateral relations to a new level .
`` A number of issues related to security and energy were discussed .
This was another step that indicates that Ukrainian-American relations are reaching a new level , '' he added .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Ukraine and met with Zelensky in late January .
The Ukrainian president said that relations between the two countries had only got better after the impeachment trial had been over .

The dates will be announced soon.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's aide Andriy Yermak has said the date of Zelensky's official visit to the United States, which may become a "historic" one, is still unknown.
Read alsoZelensky thanks Pompeo for continuous support of Ukraine
"There are no dates yet. [U.S. Secretary of State] Mr. Pompeo said [during a recent visit to Kyiv] they should become known in the near future. I think they will complete all internal procedures related to [the failed] impeachment [of U.S. President Donald Trump], and we should get the dates of the visit in the near future. This will be a historic visit by President Zelensky to the United States," he told Ukraine 24 TV channel.
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Yermak expressed the opinion that Pompeo's visit had become another step that indicated the transition of the bilateral relations to a new level.
"A number of issues related to security and energy were discussed. This was another step that indicates that Ukrainian-American relations are reaching a new level," he added.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Pompeo arrived in Ukraine and met with Zelensky in late January. The Ukrainian president said that relations between the two countries had only got better after the impeachment trial had been over.


unian--2020-02-11--Ukraine's Naftogaz finalizing documents for arbitration against Russia over Crimea assets

The arbitration proceedings have been lasting for several years .
Executive Director of NJSC Naftogaz of Ukraine Yuriy Vitrenko has said the company this week will complete drafting documents for hearings within the arbitration proceedings against Russia over the seizure of assets in occupied Crimea , which are estimated at about US $ 8 billion , including interest .
Read alsoEU may start new antitrust probe against Gazprom '' This week we are completing preparations for another submission of documents as part of the arbitration proceedings against the Russian Federation regarding assets in [ Russia-occupied ] Crimea .
The arbitration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he wrote on Facebook on February 10 .
It is the Russian Federation rather than Gazprom that is a defendant in the proceedings , he said .
Therefore , the arbitration case was not part of the agreement that Naftogaz concluded with Gazprom in December 2019 after the latter had complied with the Stockholm Arbitration 's award to pay Ukraine US $ 4.6 billion in compensation and continued gas transit via Ukraine .
According to Vitrenko , Ukraine 's prime minister in his letter to the Naftogaz Supervisory Board noted that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to the agreements secured by the Ukrainian leaders at the interstate level .
`` If this means confidence that such agreements had a decisive role , it would be good if the political leadership right now reached an agreement at the interstate level to oblige Russia to pay us compensation for the loss of the assets in Crimea ( approximately US $ 8 billion , including interest ) , '' he added .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Russia , in violation of international law , occupied Ukraine 's Crimean peninsula in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ result of this occupation , Naftogaz 's subsidiary , Chornomornaftogaz , lost its main assets ( in particular , the Petro Hodovanets and Ukraina drilling rigs ) , as well as access to natural gas fields on the Black Sea shelf .
To protect its interests , Naftogaz in October 2016 initiated arbitration in accordance with the agreement between the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and the government of the Russian Federation on the promotion and mutual protection of investment , better known as the Russian-Ukrainian bilateral investment agreement .
On September 15 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state-run holding had filed a lawsuit against Russia demanding US $ 5 billion in compensation of losses caused by the occupation .
Taking into account the expected interest , Naftogaz 's claim is estimated at US $ 8 billion .

Ukraine's Naftogaz finalizing documents for arbitration against Russia over Crimea assets
10:57, 11.02.20 1702
The arbitration proceedings have been lasting for several years.
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unian--2020-02-11--RFE/RL: Crimean Tatar TV channel in Ukraine blames lack of state funding for imminent closure

Due to the financial shortfall , ATR has slashed 90 percent of its own programming and dismissed 45 percent of its staff .
Ukraine 's first and currently only television channel in the Crimean Tatar language says it is on the brink of shutting down operations due to lack of government funding .
ATR has n't received US $ 2 million that the government allocated for the channel in this year 's state budget , a statement by the channel said on February 10 , Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty ( RFE/RL ) reported .
The channel said it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on December 28 , but could n't access the money because banks were closed that day so it had to return the money , as required by law .
A portion of the US $ 2 million that was allocated this year was transferred to ATR 's account , but the channel said the state treasury had blocked access to it .
In response , ATR has launched a fundraising campaign and is broadcasting from an empty studio without presenters and guests .
ATR is a part of a media holding that is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ broadcasting in Crimea after the occupying Russian authorities refused to issue a broadcasting license after annexing the Ukrainian peninsula in 2014 .
It resumed broadcasting on June 17 , 2015 , in Kyiv via satellite throughout Ukraine , including in Crimea , supported mostly with government money .
Islyamov said in a statement that without the channel , Ukraine will never get back Crimea .
`` We know who our focus group is .
We know it is the people who support us , those people who know about us , and those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us , '' he said .
`` Without us , we wo n't be able to return to Crimea .
We are the bridge that is being laid to Crimea . ''
Due to the financial shortfall , ATR has slashed 90 percent of its own programming , dismissed 45 percent of its staff , reduced news broadcasts , and stopped broadcasting live , Islyamov said .
In addition to ATR , a children 's TV channel and a radio channel are part of the holding .
Separately in January , Ukraine 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closed its Crimean Tatar- , Arabic- , and English-language departments .

Due to the financial shortfall, ATR has slashed 90 percent of its own programming and dismissed 45 percent of its staff.
Ukraine's first and currently only television channel in the Crimean Tatar language says it is on the brink of shutting down operations due to lack of government funding.
ATR hasn't received US$2 million that the government allocated for the channel in this year's state budget, a statement by the channel said on February 10, Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) reported.
The channel said it received US$610,000 on its account on December 28, but couldn't access the money because banks were closed that day so it had to return the money, as required by law.
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Read alsoRFE/RL: Ukraine's only English-language TV channel shuts down
A portion of the US$2 million that was allocated this year was transferred to ATR's account, but the channel said the state treasury had blocked access to it.
In response, ATR has launched a fundraising campaign and is broadcasting from an empty studio without presenters and guests.
ATR is a part of a media holding that is majority-owned by Lenur Islyamov and initially stopped broadcasting in Crimea after the occupying Russian authorities refused to issue a broadcasting license after annexing the Ukrainian peninsula in 2014.
It resumed broadcasting on June 17, 2015, in Kyiv via satellite throughout Ukraine, including in Crimea, supported mostly with government money.
Islyamov said in a statement that without the channel, Ukraine will never get back Crimea.
"We know who our focus group is. We know it is the people who support us, those people who know about us, and those who want to return to Crimea with us," he said. "Without us, we won't be able to return to Crimea. We are the bridge that is being laid to Crimea."
Due to the financial shortfall, ATR has slashed 90 percent of its own programming, dismissed 45 percent of its staff, reduced news broadcasts, and stopped broadcasting live, Islyamov said.
In addition to ATR, a children's TV channel and a radio channel are part of the holding.
Separately in January, Ukraine's public broadcaster shut down international broadcasting and closed its Crimean Tatar-, Arabic-, and English-language departments.


unian--2020-02-11--Reuters: Ukraine minister sees no preparations for new Russia talks, has low expectations

The December summit did not produce the sort of breakthrough some had hoped for , such as an agreement on expanding a ceasefire zone , but it did lead to a prisoner exchange deal .
Ukraine 's foreign minister said on Monday he saw no preparations taking place for a promised summit over the armed conflict in eastern Ukraine , adding that he had little hope it would make any progress even if it goes ahead .
The leaders of Russia , Ukraine , France and Germany met in Paris in December to discuss the long-running Ukraine crisis and agreed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to keep the dialogue open , as reported by Reuters .
Read alsoRussian FM Lavrov speaks about possible exchange of ambassadors with Kyiv '' I am confident that when leaders say they will meet in April then they will ... what I do n't see though is the preparation , '' Foreign Minister Vadym Prystaiko told reporters during a visit to Italy .
`` Before the December meeting ... ( preparations ) started half a year beforehand .
Now we have two months to go and I have not seen anything prepared .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ process than last time and maybe we will make much more progress .
I am sorry , but I doubt it . ''
The conflict in eastern Ukraine that broke out in 2014 has killed more than 13,000 people , left a large swathe of Ukraine de facto controlled by Moscow-backed armed forces and aggravated the deepest east-west rift since the Cold War .
The December summit did not produce the sort of breakthrough some had hoped for , such as an agreement on expanding a ceasefire zone , but it did lead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ welcomed the subsequent large-scale prisoner swap that took place at the end of last year , but noted that more people had died in continued fighting in January 2020 than in the same month a year earlier .
`` We have n't managed to achieve a ceasefire ...
But even if we have just an exchange of prisoners , that is a good step for Ukrainians , '' he said .

The December summit did not produce the sort of breakthrough some had hoped for, such as an agreement on expanding a ceasefire zone, but it did lead to a prisoner exchange deal.
Ukraine's foreign minister said on Monday he saw no preparations taking place for a promised summit over the armed conflict in eastern Ukraine, adding that he had little hope it would make any progress even if it goes ahead.
The leaders of Russia, Ukraine, France and Germany met in Paris in December to discuss the long-running Ukraine crisis and agreed to get together again within four months to keep the dialogue open, as reported by Reuters.
Read alsoRussian FM Lavrov speaks about possible exchange of ambassadors with Kyiv
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"I am confident that when leaders say they will meet in April then they will ... what I don't see though is the preparation," Foreign Minister Vadym Prystaiko told reporters during a visit to Italy.
"Before the December meeting ... (preparations) started half a year beforehand. Now we have two months to go and I have not seen anything prepared. Maybe it will be a much faster process than last time and maybe we will make much more progress. I am sorry, but I doubt it."
The conflict in eastern Ukraine that broke out in 2014 has killed more than 13,000 people, left a large swathe of Ukraine de facto controlled by Moscow-backed armed forces and aggravated the deepest east-west rift since the Cold War.
The December summit did not produce the sort of breakthrough some had hoped for, such as an agreement on expanding a ceasefire zone, but it did lead to a prisoner exchange deal.
Prystaiko welcomed the subsequent large-scale prisoner swap that took place at the end of last year, but noted that more people had died in continued fighting in January 2020 than in the same month a year earlier.
"We haven't managed to achieve a ceasefire ... But even if we have just an exchange of prisoners, that is a good step for Ukrainians," he said.


unian--2020-02-11--NBU strengthens official hryvnia to UAH 24.52 to U.S. dollar on Feb 11

The official forex rate of the hryvnia against the euro for Tuesday is fixed at UAH 26.85 .
The National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) has set the official forex rate for Tuesday , February 11 , at UAH 24.52 to the U.S. dollar , which let the country 's national currency strengthen by two kopiykas .
Read alsoInflation in Ukraine slows down to 3.2 % in annual terms The hryvnia has risen against the dollar for the fifth business day in a row after a week-long slide , according to the NBU website .
The official forex rate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday is fixed at UAH 26.85 – the hryvnia has gained five kopiykas in value since Monday .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the Ukrainian hryvnia in January weakened by 5.7 % against the U.S. dollar , to UAH 25.03 , and by 4.7 % against the euro , to UAH 27.66 per euro .
Ukraine 's national currency in 2019 strengthened against the U.S. dollar by 14.5 % , to UAH 23.69 and against the euro by 16.7 % , to UAH 26.42 .
The hryvnia 's historical low against the U.S. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ February 2015 .

NBU strengthens official hryvnia to UAH 24.52 to U.S. dollar on Feb 11
09:51, 11.02.20 5734
The official forex rate of the hryvnia against the euro for Tuesday is fixed at UAH 26.85.
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unian--2020-02-11--Coronavirus: China gets back to work as death toll reaches 1,018 – media

The National Health Commission also reported 2,478 new confirmed cases of the illness , bringing that total to 42,638 as of Monday .
Health authorities in China reported on Tuesday 108 new fatalities attributable to the novel coronavirus , bringing the national death toll to 1,018 .
This is the first time more than 100 people have died from the disease in a single day on the mainland , according to South China Morning Post .
The National Health Commission also reported 2,478 new confirmed cases of the illness , bringing that total to 42,638 as of Monday .
Of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hubei province – the epicentre of the novel coronavirus epidemic – and five in other provinces .
As millions of people in China prepare to return to work , Beijing has made clear that the reopening of businesses must not be hampered by `` crude and oversimplified '' restrictions .
As many as 160 million people are expected to be returning to their cities of employment over the following week , according to Xu Yahua , director of the transport services department at the Chinese ministry of transport .
The coronavirus outbreak coincided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , when millions of migrant workers traditionally travel to their homes to spend the holiday with their families .
As part of China 's response to the outbreak , the holiday season was extended to February 18 .

The National Health Commission also reported 2,478 new confirmed cases of the illness, bringing that total to 42,638 as of Monday.
Health authorities in China reported on Tuesday 108 new fatalities attributable to the novel coronavirus, bringing the national death toll to 1,018.
This is the first time more than 100 people have died from the disease in a single day on the mainland, according to South China Morning Post.
Read alsoAP: Mainland China virus cases rise again after earlier decline
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The National Health Commission also reported 2,478 new confirmed cases of the illness, bringing that total to 42,638 as of Monday.
Of the new deaths, 103 were in Hubei province – the epicentre of the novel coronavirus epidemic – and five in other provinces.
As millions of people in China prepare to return to work, Beijing has made clear that the reopening of businesses must not be hampered by "crude and oversimplified" restrictions.
As many as 160 million people are expected to be returning to their cities of employment over the following week, according to Xu Yahua, director of the transport services department at the Chinese ministry of transport.
The coronavirus outbreak coincided with the Lunar New Year travel season, when millions of migrant workers traditionally travel to their homes to spend the holiday with their families. As part of China's response to the outbreak, the holiday season was extended to February 18.


unian--2020-02-11--Ukraine reports five enemy attacks in Donbas on Feb 10

There were no casualties among Ukrainian troops in the past day .
Russia 's hybrid military forces on Monday mounted @ @ @ @ @ in Donbas , eastern Ukraine .
`` The armed forces of the Russian Federation violated @ @ @ @ @ February 10 , '' the press center of Ukraine 's Joint Forces Operation said in @ @ @ @ @ 07:00 Kyiv time on February 11 , 2020 .
The enemy opened fire from grenade @ @ @ @ @ heavy machine guns , and small arms .
Under attack were Ukrainian positions near the @ @ @ @ @ the villages of Pavlopil , Orikhove , Khutir Vilny , and Novoluhanske .
There were @ @ @ @ @ the past day .
No enemy attacks were reported from 00:00 to 07:00 Kyiv time @ @ @ @

There were no casualties among Ukrainian troops in the past day.
Russia's hybrid military forces on Monday mounted five attacks on Ukrainian positions in Donbas, eastern Ukraine.
Read alsoZagorodnyuk: Disengagement along entire contact line in Donbas contradicts Minsk agreements
"The armed forces of the Russian Federation violated the ceasefire five times on February 10," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation said in a Facebook update as of 07:00 Kyiv time on February 11, 2020.
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The enemy opened fire from grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and small arms.
Under attack were Ukrainian positions near the town of Krasnohorivka, and the villages of Pavlopil, Orikhove, Khutir Vilny, and Novoluhanske.
There were no Ukraine army casualties in the past day.
No enemy attacks were reported from 00:00 to 07:00 Kyiv time on February 11.


unian--2020-02-10--Naftogaz mulls gas purchases at stock exchange by late February

The target minimum daily purchase volume is set at 10 million cubic meters , with a lot size of 1 mcm .
Until the end of February , Naftogaz Trading gas supply company , which is part of Naftogaz Group , plans to start purchasing natural gas through the electronic platform of Ukrainian Energy Exchange ( UEEX ) , where the contractual purchase price will be determined by bidding results .
Daily purchase and selling price offers at UEEX will allow Naftogaz becoming the main market maker on the domestic market .
It is noted that Naftogaz 's listing as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conditions of oversupply will support domestic gas producers and promote gas extraction in Ukraine .
Gas will be purchased on conditions of its delivery in the next month following the bidding .
Payments will be made immediately after the delivery is made , which will allow market players to improve own liquidity .
The planned minimum daily purchase volume is set at up to 10 million cubic meters , with a lot size of 1 mcm .
If the bidding sees success and interest from market players , the company plans to expand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of products purchased .
The company recalled that Naftogaz Trading , a gas supply company , is actively selling natural gas on the Ukrainian energy exchange .
Naftogaz 's starting selling price reflects the level of import parity .

Naftogaz mulls gas purchases at stock exchange by late February
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The target minimum daily purchase volume is set at 10 million cubic meters, with a lot size of 1 mcm.
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unian--2020-02-11--U.S. supports Ukraine joining NATO's Enhanced Opportunity Partnership

The United States supports the Enhanced Opportunity Partnership for Ukraine , says Kay Bailey Hutchinson , a U.S. envoy to NATO .
`` First of all , the U.S. does support the Enhanced Opportunity Partnership for Ukraine in NATO .
And I think there is wide approval of that in NATO as well , '' she told a Brussels briefing on Tuesday ahead of the NATO defense ministerial .
`` We have asked for reforms in Ukraine so that they would have civilian control of their military , '' the official said , adding that Ukraine is now `` trying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has had .
Read alsoUkraine 's Defense Minister : Military bases meeting NATO standards to be built in Donbas '' We support President Zelensky 's efforts in that regard and we will continue to work with them as they solidify their democracy and instill the anticorruption measures that have been introduced by President Zelensky , '' the U.S. envoy said .
As UNIAN reported earlier , on November 1 , 2019 , Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration Dmytro Kuleba said Ukraine had turned to NATO with a request to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Partnership .
As part of such a partnership , Ukraine may receive priority access to certification of events taking place along the NATO-Ukraine lines .
The program also provides for an expanded dialogue in the field of intelligence , allowing representatives of a partner state to hold positions at NATO headquarters or in the Alliance 's command structure .

Washington also supports President Zelensky's anti-corruption efforts.
The United States supports the Enhanced Opportunity Partnership for Ukraine, says Kay Bailey Hutchinson, a U.S. envoy to NATO.
"First of all, the U.S. does support the Enhanced Opportunity Partnership for Ukraine in NATO. And I think there is wide approval of that in NATO as well," she told a Brussels briefing on Tuesday ahead of the NATO defense ministerial.
"We have asked for reforms in Ukraine so that they would have civilian control of their military," the official said, adding that Ukraine is now "trying to deal" with corruption issues it has had.
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Read alsoUkraine's Defense Minister: Military bases meeting NATO standards to be built in Donbas
"We support President Zelensky's efforts in that regard and we will continue to work with them as they solidify their democracy and instill the anticorruption measures that have been introduced by President Zelensky," the U.S. envoy said.
As UNIAN reported earlier, on November 1, 2019, Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration Dmytro Kuleba said Ukraine had turned to NATO with a request to be accepted as member of the Enhanced Opportunity Partnership.
As part of such a partnership, Ukraine may receive priority access to certification of events taking place along the NATO-Ukraine lines. The program also provides for an expanded dialogue in the field of intelligence, allowing representatives of a partner state to hold positions at NATO headquarters or in the Alliance's command structure.


unian--2020-02-11--Ukraine responds to Lavrov's offer for both countries to appoint ambassadors

MFA Ukraine says that amid Russia 's continued aggression against Ukraine , appointing an ambassador is off the table .
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine announced that there were no reasons to raise the status of diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation by appointing an ambassador .
That 's according to a response of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine to UNIAN 's inquiry .
`` Given Russia 's continued aggression against Ukraine and the Russian occupation of Ukrainian territories , there is no reason to raise the status of diplomatic relations by appointing an ambassador of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As UNIAN reported earlier , on February 10 , Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Russia `` did n't mind '' redeploying their ambassador to Kyiv and having a Ukrainian ambassador back in Moscow .
Read alsoKremlin says Russia 's ready to send ambassador to Kyiv – Peskov Later , Dmitry Peskov , a press secretary for Russian President Vladimir Putin , confirmed the Kremlin ’ s readiness to send an ambassador to Kyiv .
*** On February 23 , 2014 , the Russian Foreign Ministry recalled the ambassador to Kyiv , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ position since 2009 .
After that , Andrei Vorobyov held Russia 's charge d'affaires a.i .
to Ukraine until the day he died – on May 30 , 2016 .
Since November 2016 Alexander Lukashik has been performing duties of CDA a.i .
Ukraine recalled its then-ambassador to the Russian Federation , Volodymyr Yelchenko , in March 2014 .
Since 2015 , Ruslan Nimchynsky has been charge d'affaires of Ukraine to the Russian Federation .

MFA Ukraine says that amid Russia's continued aggression against Ukraine, appointing an ambassador is off the table.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine announced that there were no reasons to raise the status of diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation by appointing an ambassador.
That's according to a response of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine to UNIAN's inquiry.
"Given Russia's continued aggression against Ukraine and the Russian occupation of Ukrainian territories, there is no reason to raise the status of diplomatic relations by appointing an ambassador of Ukraine," the Foreign Ministry noted.
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As UNIAN reported earlier, on February 10, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Russia "didn't mind" redeploying their ambassador to Kyiv and having a Ukrainian ambassador back in Moscow.
Read alsoKremlin says Russia's ready to send ambassador to Kyiv – Peskov
Later, Dmitry Peskov, a press secretary for Russian President Vladimir Putin, confirmed the Kremlin’s readiness to send an ambassador to Kyiv.
*** On February 23, 2014, the Russian Foreign Ministry recalled the ambassador to Kyiv, Mikhail Zurabov, who had held the position since 2009. After that, Andrei Vorobyov held Russia's charge d'affaires a.i. to Ukraine until the day he died – on May 30, 2016. Since November 2016 Alexander Lukashik has been performing duties of CDA a.i.
Ukraine recalled its then-ambassador to the Russian Federation, Volodymyr Yelchenko, in March 2014. Since 2015, Ruslan Nimchynsky has been charge d'affaires of Ukraine to the Russian Federation.


unian--2020-02-11--Kyiv's Dorohozhychi subway station could be renamed to Babyn Yar

Activists push for renaming the station to commemorate victims of Nazi atrocities .
The Holocaust Memorial Charitable Foundation `` Babyn Yar '' and Memory March NGO appealed to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko with a request to rename Dorohozhychi subway station , located in close proximity to the territory of Babyn Yar , according to Yevhen Horodetsky , head of Memory March .
The organizations standing behind the initiative propose changing the subway station 's current name , Dorohozhychi , to Babyn Yar , to commemorate the tragedy that took thousands of lives of Kyiv Jews during the Nazi occupation of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of the main goals that the initiators of renaming say they have set .
UNIAN memo .
During World War 2 , Nazis murdered and buried in mass graves in the territory of Babyn Yar over 30,000 Kyiv Jews .
In the first two days of mass executions alone , 33,771 people were killed , while there was no official count of slain children under three years old .
It is near the subway station “ Dorohozhychi ” that the historical site of the entrance to the tract , which has become @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Appropriate appeals were sent to the Kyiv Mayor 's Office in late 2019 .
Representatives of the Babyn Yar Holocaust Memorial Foundation held public hearings , consultations , and discussions regarding the idea .
According to the Foundation , city residents have positive feedback and are ready to consider , as well as support the renaming initiative .
The City Mayor 's Office said special commissions would be set up to consider the issue and the project 's possible implementation .

Activists push for renaming the station to commemorate victims of Nazi atrocities.
The Holocaust Memorial Charitable Foundation "Babyn Yar" and Memory March NGO appealed to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko with a request to rename Dorohozhychi subway station, located in close proximity to the territory of Babyn Yar, according to Yevhen Horodetsky, head of Memory March.
The organizations standing behind the initiative propose changing the subway station's current name, Dorohozhychi, to Babyn Yar, to commemorate the tragedy that took thousands of lives of Kyiv Jews during the Nazi occupation of the city.
Read alsoUkrainian film agency to invest US$2.1 mln in "Babyn Yar" movie
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Preserving historical memory is one of the main goals that the initiators of renaming say they have set.
UNIAN memo. During World War 2, Nazis murdered and buried in mass graves in the territory of Babyn Yar over 30,000 Kyiv Jews.
In the first two days of mass executions alone, 33,771 people were killed, while there was no official count of slain children under three years old. It is near the subway station “Dorohozhychi” that the historical site of the entrance to the tract, which has become a mass grave, is historically located. Appropriate appeals were sent to the Kyiv Mayor's Office in late 2019.
Representatives of the Babyn Yar Holocaust Memorial Foundation held public hearings, consultations, and discussions regarding the idea.
According to the Foundation, city residents have positive feedback and are ready to consider, as well as support the renaming initiative.
The City Mayor's Office said special commissions would be set up to consider the issue and the project's possible implementation.


unian--2020-02-11--Latvia may cut share of Russian-language TV content to 20%

The country 's president has proposed corresponding legislative changes .
In Latvia , the share of Russian-language programs on television may be cut down to 20 % .
President Egil Levits turned to the Seimas Commission on Human Rights and Public Affairs , putting forward a proposal to revise the law on electronic media and increase to 80 % the share of TV programs in the official languages of the EU and the Eurozone , according to CurrentTime .
According to Levits 's idea , the basic package for subscribers must include television programs produced by state-owned and commercial Latvian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If additional programs are included in the basic package , at least 80 % of them should be aired in the official languages of the EU and the Eurozone .
There are 24 of these languages now , including English , German , Spanish , and Latvian .
This means a decrease in the number of TV programs in Russian to 20 % .
The president is convinced that these requirements should also apply to cable TV service providers and electronic media broadcasting television programs .
`` Strong information space is an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and democracy in Latvia .
It should be possible to ensure at the legislative level that Latvia residents have access to high-quality , pluralistic TV programs strengthening Latvia 's identity as part of Europe 's cultural space and contribute to the inclusion of Latvian residents in Europe 's general information discourse , '' said Levits .
Changes in the legislation will address `` a long-recognized issue , which could n't be effectively resolved by other mechanisms . ''
As UNIAN reported earlier , Latvia adopted a resolution against Russia 's attempts to rewrite @ @

The country's president has proposed corresponding legislative changes.
In Latvia, the share of Russian-language programs on television may be cut down to 20%.
President Egil Levits turned to the Seimas Commission on Human Rights and Public Affairs, putting forward a proposal to revise the law on electronic media and increase to 80% the share of TV programs in the official languages of the EU and the Eurozone, according to CurrentTime.
According to Levits's idea, the basic package for subscribers must include television programs produced by state-owned and commercial Latvian media, as well as regional shows.
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If additional programs are included in the basic package, at least 80% of them should be aired in the official languages of the EU and the Eurozone.
There are 24 of these languages now, including English, German, Spanish, and Latvian.
This means a decrease in the number of TV programs in Russian to 20%.
Read alsoRussian State Duma member brands European Union "Hitler's coalition" – media
The president is convinced that these requirements should also apply to cable TV service providers and electronic media broadcasting television programs.
"Strong information space is an essential part of the country's security and democracy in Latvia. It should be possible to ensure at the legislative level that Latvia residents have access to high-quality, pluralistic TV programs strengthening Latvia's identity as part of Europe's cultural space and contribute to the inclusion of Latvian residents in Europe's general information discourse," said Levits.
Changes in the legislation will address "a long-recognized issue, which couldn't be effectively resolved by other mechanisms."
As UNIAN reported earlier, Latvia adopted a resolution against Russia's attempts to rewrite history.


unian--2020-02-11--U.S. calls on Russia to withdraw from Ukraine's sovereign territory

The U.S. diplomat emphasized inadmissibility of Russia 's interference in Ukraine 's affairs .
The United States has called on @ @ @ @ @ sovereign territory of Ukraine , says Kay Bailey Hutchison , U.S .
Permanent Representative to @ @ @ @ @ calling on Russia to withdraw from the sovereign territory of Ukraine and to let the @ @ @ @ @ move forward as they have shown they want to do in freedom and democracy with @ @ @ @ @ human rights , '' the official told a video conference briefing ahead of a NATO @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday , February 11 .
Also , Kay Bailey Hutchison reiterated U.S. `` commitment to @ @ @ @ @ .
She noted that NATO defense ministers in Brussels this week will meet their Ukrainian @ @ @ @ @ the commitment that NATO has to the sovereign boundaries of Ukraine .

The U.S. diplomat emphasized inadmissibility of Russia's interference in Ukraine's affairs.
The United States has called on Russia to withdraw from the sovereign territory of Ukraine, says Kay Bailey Hutchison, U.S. Permanent Representative to NATO.
"We are calling on Russia to withdraw from the sovereign territory of Ukraine and to let the Ukrainian people come together and move forward as they have shown they want to do in freedom and democracy with the rule of law and human rights," the official told a video conference briefing ahead of a NATO defense ministerial in Brussels on Tuesday, February 11.
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Read alsoZelensky, Merkel discuss implementation of agreements reached at Normandy summit
Also, Kay Bailey Hutchison reiterated U.S. "commitment to Ukraine to be helpful".
She noted that NATO defense ministers in Brussels this week will meet their Ukrainian counterpart Andriy Zagorodnyuk to reinforce the commitment that NATO has to the sovereign boundaries of Ukraine.


unian--2020-02-11--SBU foils attempt to smuggle to Russia part of Mi24 strike helicopter

The perpetrator turned out to be a resident of the occupied part of Luhansk region .
Ukrainian counterintelligence operatives have @ @ @ @ @ military goods to Russia , according to the SBU press center .
Law enforcers stopped @ @ @ @ @ trailer in close proximity to the border , moving offroad in an attempt to bypass @ @ @ @ @ the area of the village of Lozno-Oleksandrivka .
In the trailer , the security officials @ @ @ @ @ a Mi-24 strike helicopter The driver turned out to be a resident of the occupied @ @ @ @ @ Read alsoMan detained at Donbas checkpoint , caught trying to smuggle C4 explosive from occupied @ @ @ @ @ the territory of the Russian Federation , the driver was set to be met by @ @ @ @ @ the SBU .
The investigation has already established the origin of the helicopter part that @ @ @ @ @ to Russia .
The perpetrator is facing charges of the illegal arms and military goods @ @ @ @ @ the procedure for international transfers of goods subject to expert control '' ) .

The perpetrator turned out to be a resident of the occupied part of Luhansk region.
Ukrainian counterintelligence operatives have prevented the illegal export of military goods to Russia, according to the SBU press center.
Law enforcers stopped a Niva car with a trailer in close proximity to the border, moving offroad in an attempt to bypass the border checkpoint, in the area of the village of Lozno-Oleksandrivka.
In the trailer, the security officials discovered a keel beam of a Mi-24 strike helicopter
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The driver turned out to be a resident of the occupied part of Luhansk region.
Read alsoMan detained at Donbas checkpoint, caught trying to smuggle C4 explosive from occupied area (Photo)
On the territory of the Russian Federation, the driver was set to be met by his accomplice, according to the SBU.
The investigation has already established the origin of the helicopter part that was about to be smuggled to Russia.
The perpetrator is facing charges of illegal arms and military goods trafficking ("violation of the procedure for international transfers of goods subject to expert control").


unian--2020-02-11--Russian artist trying out unique way to thwart facial recognition in Moscow streets

However , she was arrested along with a group of activists as she was set to walk the city streets @ @ @ @ @ cameras .
As there are more cameras across the city in metro stations , in @ @ @ @ @ corners , activists are becoming increasingly concerned that facial recognition is becoming a political tool @ @ @ @ @ activists .
Coda Story has reported about a group of artists and activists , who @ @ @ @ @ '' using a low-tech way of thwarting facial recognition cameras : face paint .
Different @ @ @ @ @ to hide the geometrical nature of human face and thus confuse CCTV cameras .
On @ @ @ @ @ , '' led by political artist and activist Katrin Nenasheva , took to the streets @ @ @ @ @ city 's extensive use of facial recognition cameras .
However , the group were arrested @ @ @ @ @ Moscow 's system of facial recognition cameras has grown from 1,500 in 2017 to more @ @ @ @

However, she was arrested along with a group of activists as she was set to walk the city streets and try to confuse CCTV cameras.
As there are more cameras across the city in metro stations, in parks, and on street corners, activists are becoming increasingly concerned that facial recognition is becoming a political tool used to surveil and control activists.
Coda Story has reported about a group of artists and activists, who call themselves "Follow," using a low-tech way of thwarting facial recognition cameras: face paint.
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Different colors and shapes are intended to hide the geometrical nature of human face and thus confuse CCTV cameras.
Read alsoKyiv in TOP 50 of world’s most-surveilled cities
On February 9, "Follow," led by political artist and activist Katrin Nenasheva, took to the streets of Moscow to protest the city's extensive use of facial recognition cameras.
However, the group were arrested minutes into their march.
Moscow's system of facial recognition cameras has grown from 1,500 in 2017 to more than 100,000 today.


unian--2020-02-11--Kliuyev case: Ukraine's High Anti-Corruption Court rolls back arrest in absentia

The former chief of Yanukovych administration is suspected of organizing a violent crackdown on Maidan protesters .
The High Anti-Corruption Court of Ukraine has canceled the arrest in absentia ruled by a lower instance court January 3 , 2020 , in the case of former First Deputy Prime Minister Andriy Kliuyev , who was in the office during the rule of disgraced ex-president Viktor Yanukovych .
That 's according to a judgment by the court 's Chamber of Appeals of February 4 , which states that the judges saw no sufficient grounds for taking Kliuyev into custody , at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forward are sufficient enough to justify further investigation or preparing an indictment .
Kliuyev held the post of Presidential Administration chief when the investigation believes he organized a violent crackdown on protesters in Kyiv during the Revolution of Dignity in February 2014 , involving a deadly shooting .
He fled from Ukraine on February 28 , unhindered , despite suspicions voiced over his possible complicity in the Maidan violence .
Kliuyev is also suspected of repeated , large-scale embezzlement of state-owned assets by abuse of power and in conspiracy .
Viktor Yanukovych also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mass protests across the country and settled in Russia .

The former chief of Yanukovych administration is suspected of organizing a violent crackdown on Maidan protesters.
The High Anti-Corruption Court of Ukraine has canceled the arrest in absentia ruled by a lower instance court January 3, 2020, in the case of former First Deputy Prime Minister Andriy Kliuyev, who was in the office during the rule of disgraced ex-president Viktor Yanukovych.
That's according to a judgment by the court's Chamber of Appeals of February 4, which states that the judges saw no sufficient grounds for taking Kliuyev into custody, at the same time admitting that the charges put forward are sufficient enough to justify further investigation or preparing an indictment.
Read alsoEU to remove Azarov, Stavytskiy from sanctions list – journalist
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Kliuyev held the post of Presidential Administration chief when the investigation believes he organized a violent crackdown on protesters in Kyiv during the Revolution of Dignity in February 2014, involving a deadly shooting.
He fled from Ukraine on February 28, unhindered, despite suspicions voiced over his possible complicity in the Maidan violence.
Kliuyev is also suspected of repeated, large-scale embezzlement of state-owned assets by abuse of power and in conspiracy.
Viktor Yanukovych also fled from Ukraine in the wake of mass protests across the country and settled in Russia.


unian--2020-02-11--Russia's return to PACE not as triumphant as many suggest – think tank

The PACE resolution recognized Russia as a party to the Minsk agreements – something Moscow has fiercely resisted for the past few years .
Some delegations consider Russia 's formal return and the second-attempt election of Russian delegate Piotr Tolstoy as PACE deputy chief as a key result of the session .
However , this is far from being decisive in terms of the winter session results and forecasts for the future of the organization , Institute for Global Threats and Democracies Studies ( IGTDS ) wrote .
In fact , the Russian delegation 's return is a result of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cost Russia over EUR 88 million , including its debt for 2019 ( EUR 33 million ) and interest for 2017-2018 ( EUR 55 million ) , reads the report .
Thus , Russia used the financial deal to compensate for the European community 's political claims .
European powers show little willingness to finance international platforms such as the PACE amid the EU crisis caused by Brexit and ongoing conflict of interest within the European Union .
Thus , the European community agreed to give Piotr Tolstoy a high-raking position in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resources .
Paradoxically , against the backdrop of the Russian delegation ’ s return and the appointment of its representative to the PACE leadership , the Assembly in its final resolution obliged the Kremlin to take a number of specific measures to address violations of human rights and freedoms and the rule of law , both in the temporarily occupied Crimea and across Russia .
Also , the resolution recognized Russia as a party to the Minsk agreements - something Moscow has fiercely resisted for the past few years , IGTDS adds .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ movements to international platforms threaten EU – think tank The PACE resolution also obliged Moscow to implement the Minsk agreements , stop military intervention and any support for armed groups in eastern Ukraine .
Moreover , PACE obliged the Kremlin to stop the annexation of Crimea , South Ossetia and Abkhazia , and demanded cooperation in the investigation of MH17 plane shoot down in 2014 as well .
According to the PACE resolution , Russia should also stop obstructing the implementation of the European Court of Human Rights decisions , and take measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rights .
Thus , Russia 's return to PACE and the election of its representative to the leadership of the Assembly did not affect the tone of the PACE resolutions .
In turn , Tolstoy 's statement that Russia will never agree with the Council of Europe 's postulates regarding Crimea , violations of the LGBT community rights , and the implementation of the ECHR decisions actually returned Russia to the status of a `` renegade and the country that does not share the European values and ignores the norms of international law @ @ @ @ @ @ @

The PACE resolution recognized Russia as a party to the Minsk agreements – something Moscow has fiercely resisted for the past few years.
Some delegations consider Russia's formal return and the second-attempt election of Russian delegate Piotr Tolstoy as PACE deputy chief as a key result of the session.
However, this is far from being decisive in terms of the winter session results and forecasts for the future of the organization, Institute for Global Threats and Democracies Studies (IGTDS) wrote.
In fact, the Russian delegation's return is a result of a financial deal: the PACE membership cost Russia over EUR 88 million, including its debt for 2019 (EUR 33 million) and interest for 2017-2018 (EUR 55 million), reads the report.
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Thus, Russia used the financial deal to compensate for the European community's political claims. European powers show little willingness to finance international platforms such as the PACE amid the EU crisis caused by Brexit and ongoing conflict of interest within the European Union. Thus, the European community agreed to give Piotr Tolstoy a high-ranking position in the PACE in exchange for Russia's financial resources.
Paradoxically, against the backdrop of the Russian delegation’s return and the appointment of its representative to the PACE leadership, the Assembly in its final resolution obliged the Kremlin to take a number of specific measures to address violations of human rights and freedoms and the rule of law, both in the temporarily occupied Crimea and across Russia.
Also, the resolution recognized Russia as a party to the Minsk agreements - something Moscow has fiercely resisted for the past few years, IGTDS adds.
Read alsoRussia's attempts to bring separatist movements to international platforms threaten EU – think tank
The PACE resolution also obliged Moscow to implement the Minsk agreements, stop military intervention and any support for armed groups in eastern Ukraine. Moreover, PACE obliged the Kremlin to stop the annexation of Crimea, South Ossetia and Abkhazia, and demanded cooperation in the investigation of MH17 plane shoot down in 2014 as well.
According to the PACE resolution, Russia should also stop obstructing the implementation of the European Court of Human Rights decisions, and take measures to eliminate violations of the LGBT community rights.
Thus, Russia's return to PACE and the election of its representative to the leadership of the Assembly did not affect the tone of the PACE resolutions.
In turn, Tolstoy's statement that Russia will never agree with the Council of Europe's postulates regarding Crimea, violations of the LGBT community rights, and the implementation of the ECHR decisions actually returned Russia to the status of a "renegade and the country that does not share the European values and ignores the norms of international law," the think tank stressed.


unian--2020-02-11--Yermak: Pope promises Zelensky assistance in Markiv case

The Ukrainian National Guardsman was sentenced to 24 years in the Italian prison .
Ukraine has information allowing to state that Vitaliy Markiv , a Ukrainian National Guardsman sentenced by an Italian court to 24 years in prison on charges of complicity in the killing of an Italian journalist and his Russian interpreter in the Donbas warzone , is in fact not guilty , according to the newly-appointed chief of Ukraine 's Presidential Office , Andriy Yermak .
`` The issue of Vitaliy Markiv was brought up at all meetings , including those with the Pope and Vatican State Secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the contents of those meetings , '' Yermak told Ukraine 24 TV Channel , Segodnya reports .
`` He said that he had told the Pope the whole story in detail .
The Pope said the following : 'You struck me in the heart .
I realize that when you came as president and dedicated so much time to telling the story of just one Ukrainian citizen , I believe you are president of peace . '
To him , it was very important emotionally , and I believe they had a really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help . ''
Yermak added that he was assured Vatican would play an important humanitarian role in Markiv 's case , as well as in the issue of Donbas settlement in general .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte have discussed the case of Ukrainian guardsman Vitaliy Markiv , who has been convicted and sentenced to 24-year imprisonment in Italy .
`` I understand that the Prime Minister can not influence the Italian court .
But I showed in detail what happened there , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was from the murder scene .
And that we have to take the man [ back home ] , '' the president said , according to the presidential press service .
UNIAN memo .
Deputy commander of a platoon of the Ukrainian National Guard 's first battalion , senior sergeant Markiv was detained in Italy on June 30 , 2017 , on suspicion of the murder of Italian journalist Andrea Rocchelli and his Russian interpreter Andrei Mironov amid a mortar attack in Donetsk region in May 2014 .
According to the Ukrainian investigation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Russian-led troops .
Ukrainian National Guard officials insisted that the Ukrainian battalion was not armed with mortars in 2014 .
The jury in the court of Italy 's Pavia on July 12 , 2019 , sentenced the Ukrainian guardsman to 24 years in prison .
He is also to pay compensation to Rocchelli 's family .
Zelensky ordered the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Prosecutor General 's Office to immediately address the issue of Markiv 's return to Ukraine .
On November 20 , Ukraine filed an appeal against Markiv 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by a Lombardy appellate court in the spring of 2020 .

The Ukrainian National Guardsman was sentenced to 24 years in the Italian prison.
Ukraine has information allowing to state that Vitaliy Markiv, a Ukrainian National Guardsman sentenced by an Italian court to 24 years in prison on charges of complicity in the killing of an Italian journalist and his Russian interpreter in the Donbas warzone, is in fact not guilty, according to the newly-appointed chief of Ukraine's Presidential Office, Andriy Yermak.
"The issue of Vitaliy Markiv was brought up at all meetings, including those with the Pope and Vatican State Secretary, and president shared with the delegation the contents of those meetings," Yermak told Ukraine 24 TV Channel, Segodnya reports.
"He said that he had told the Pope the whole story in detail. The Pope said the following: 'You struck me in the heart. I realize that when you came as president and dedicated so much time to telling the story of just one Ukrainian citizen, I believe you are president of peace.' To him, it was very important emotionally, and I believe they had a really good connection. He promised to provide help."
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Yermak added that he was assured Vatican would play an important humanitarian role in Markiv's case, as well as in the issue of Donbas settlement in general.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte have discussed the case of Ukrainian guardsman Vitaliy Markiv, who has been convicted and sentenced to 24-year imprisonment in Italy.
"I understand that the Prime Minister cannot influence the Italian court. But I showed in detail what happened there, at what distance he [Markiv] was from the murder scene. And that we have to take the man [back home]," the president said, according to the presidential press service.
UNIAN memo. Deputy commander of a platoon of the Ukrainian National Guard's first battalion, senior sergeant Markiv was detained in Italy on June 30, 2017, on suspicion of the murder of Italian journalist Andrea Rocchelli and his Russian interpreter Andrei Mironov amid a mortar attack in Donetsk region in May 2014.
According to the Ukrainian investigation, the two were killed in shelling by Russian-led troops. Ukrainian National Guard officials insisted that the Ukrainian battalion was not armed with mortars in 2014.
The jury in the court of Italy's Pavia on July 12, 2019, sentenced the Ukrainian guardsman to 24 years in prison.
He is also to pay compensation to Rocchelli's family. Zelensky ordered the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Prosecutor General's Office to immediately address the issue of Markiv's return to Ukraine. On November 20, Ukraine filed an appeal against Markiv's verdict. It is to be considered by a Lombardy appellate court in the spring of 2020.


unian--2020-02-11--Naftogaz official offers to distribute US$2.9 bln received from Gazprom among all Ukrainians

This is about US $ 2.9 billion , as well as US $ 7.2 billion in guaranteed revenue from gas transit under the contract with Gazprom .
Executive Director of NJSC Naftogaz of Ukraine Yuriy Vitrenko offers the country 's leadership to distribute gas transit revenue , as well as US $ 2.9 billion received from Russia 's Gazprom under the Stockholm Arbitration 's award , including his bonuses , among all Ukrainians .
`` In mid-January , I invited the political leadership to give my bonuses directly to Ukrainians , for the sake of whom I had achieved such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I have noticed it would be unfair and actually insignificant if only my honestly earned funds were evenly distributed between all citizens of Ukraine , while 99.75 % of the funds earned primarily through my work would be distributed by politicians and officials not equally , but as they wish , '' he wrote on Facebook on February 11 .
Read alsoUkrainian lawmaker explains why Naftogaz could not be privatized According to Vitrenko , this is about US $ 2.9 billion , as well as US $ 7.2 billion in guaranteed revenue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gazprom .
The total amount is US $ 10.1 billion .
`` This is about UAH 6,000 [ US $ 245 ] per capita , or more than UAH 16,000 [ US $ 653 ] per household .
It is very important to ensure the effective use of this money by Ukrainians .
It would also be logical and fair to associate these payments with the gas sector .
Therefore , restrictions are needed , such as 'on energy efficiency costs , ' '' he added .
In his opinion , such expenses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in this way , Ukrainian families will have special funds for this .
As an example , he suggested distributing certificates that Ukrainians may exchange for goods in an online store that will sell only goods to increase energy efficiency .
Such goods may include materials for thermal insulation of premises , new boilers with high efficiency , etc .
`` Legislative changes will be needed to implement this initiative , in particular , by making Naftogaz 's relevant revenue and my bonuses , which will be paid to people , as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this money exempt from taxation , '' he said .

Naftogaz official offers to distribute US$2.9 bln received from Gazprom among all Ukrainians
16:56, 11.02.20 6956
This is about US$2.9 billion, as well as US$7.2 billion in guaranteed revenue from gas transit under the contract with Gazprom.
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unian--2020-02-11--Zelensky, Merkel discuss implementation of agreements reached at Normandy summit

The officials also discussed the issue of choosing three new sites for the disengagement of forces and weapons along the contact line in Donbas .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and German Chancellor Angela Merkel discussed by phone on Tuesday the implementation of the agreements reached at the Normandy Four summit in Paris on December 9 , 2019 .
Zelensky briefed Merkel on the security situation in Donbas , according to the president 's press service .
Read alsoReuters : Ukraine minister sees no preparations for new Russia talks , has low expectations In turn , Merkel expressed concern over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not been observing the ceasefire in Ukraine 's east .
The officials also discussed the issue of choosing three new sites for the disengagement of forces and weapons along the contact line in Donbas .
They expressed the hope that progress on the issue would be achieved at a Trilateral Contact Group meeting in Minsk on February 12 .
The Ukrainian president reiterated the need to ensure that international humanitarian organizations , namely the International Committee of the Red Cross , have unhindered access to persons illegally held in the uncontrolled territory of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Merkel touched upon the need to continue the EU 's personal sanctions against former high-ranking officials of Ukraine suspected of embezzlement of public funds and committing crimes during Maidan events late in 2013 and early in 2014 .

The officials also discussed the issue of choosing three new sites for the disengagement of forces and weapons along the contact line in Donbas.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and German Chancellor Angela Merkel discussed by phone on Tuesday the implementation of the agreements reached at the Normandy Four summit in Paris on December 9, 2019.
Zelensky briefed Merkel on the security situation in Donbas, according to the president's press service.
Read alsoReuters: Ukraine minister sees no preparations for new Russia talks, has low expectations
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In turn, Merkel expressed concern over the fact that Russia-controlled illegal armed formations had not been observing the ceasefire in Ukraine's east.
The officials also discussed the issue of choosing three new sites for the disengagement of forces and weapons along the contact line in Donbas. They expressed the hope that progress on the issue would be achieved at a Trilateral Contact Group meeting in Minsk on February 12.
The Ukrainian president reiterated the need to ensure that international humanitarian organizations, namely the International Committee of the Red Cross, have unhindered access to persons illegally held in the uncontrolled territory of Ukraine.
In addition, Zelensky and Merkel touched upon the need to continue the EU's personal sanctions against former high-ranking officials of Ukraine suspected of embezzlement of public funds and committing crimes during Maidan events late in 2013 and early in 2014.


unian--2020-02-11--Kremlin introduces Kozak as new supervisor of 'Ukrainian direction'

The resignation letter submitted by Vladislav Surkov , who was previously in charge of Ukrainian affairs in the Kremlin , has not been signed yet .
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has said Deputy Head of the Russian Presidential Administration Dmitry Kozak has already started supervising the `` Ukrainian direction '' and issues of `` integration . ''
`` I could say that yes , Kozak is engaged in and will continue dealing with Ukrainian affairs and integration issues in his new position .
The exact wording will be stipulated in the distribution of responsibilities , which has not yet been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ answering a question from an UNIAN correspondent in Russia whether a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky 's aide Andriy Yermak [ Head of President 's Office as of February 11 ] with Kozak means that the latter will be in charge of the Ukrainian direction in the Russian Presidential Administration .
Read alsoZelensky 's aide Yermak comments on meeting with Russian supervisor of puppet `` republics '' Answering a clarifying question from UNIAN what kind of integration Kozak will deal with , Peskov said : `` Not between Russia and Ukraine .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in which it [ Russia ] has been very successful . ''
Moreover , according to Peskov , the resignation letter submitted by Vladislav Surkov , who had previously supervised the `` Ukrainian direction '' in the Kremlin , has not been signed yet .
`` No , not signed yet .
We have not announced this , '' Peskov said .
He confirmed Kozak would be the main official in the Russian Presidential Administration to deal with Ukraine .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Yermak said he had met with Kozak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine in the Normandy Four format ( Ukraine , Russia , France and Germany ) , although he is not an `` exclusive negotiator . ''
At the same time , he confirmed that Kozak represents the Russian side at talks with Ukraine .
Yermak added they had already discussed lists for future prisoner swaps .

The resignation letter submitted by Vladislav Surkov, who was previously in charge of Ukrainian affairs in the Kremlin, has not been signed yet.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has said Deputy Head of the Russian Presidential Administration Dmitry Kozak has already started supervising the "Ukrainian direction" and issues of "integration."
"I could say that yes, Kozak is engaged in and will continue dealing with Ukrainian affairs and integration issues in his new position. The exact wording will be stipulated in the distribution of responsibilities, which has not yet been formalized," Peskov told journalists, answering a question from an UNIAN correspondent in Russia whether a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's aide Andriy Yermak [Head of President's Office as of February 11] with Kozak means that the latter will be in charge of the Ukrainian direction in the Russian Presidential Administration.
Read alsoZelensky's aide Yermak comments on meeting with Russian supervisor of puppet "republics"
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Answering a clarifying question from UNIAN what kind of integration Kozak will deal with, Peskov said: "Not between Russia and Ukraine. Russia has many integration processes besides Ukraine, in which it [Russia] has been very successful."
Moreover, according to Peskov, the resignation letter submitted by Vladislav Surkov, who had previously supervised the "Ukrainian direction" in the Kremlin, has not been signed yet. "No, not signed yet. We have not announced this," Peskov said.
He confirmed Kozak would be the main official in the Russian Presidential Administration to deal with Ukraine.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Yermak said he had met with Kozak. According to Yermak, he represents Ukraine in the Normandy Four format (Ukraine, Russia, France and Germany), although he is not an "exclusive negotiator." At the same time, he confirmed that Kozak represents the Russian side at talks with Ukraine. Yermak added they had already discussed lists for future prisoner swaps.


unian--2020-02-11--Ukraine's National Bank to conduct stress testing of 16 banks in 2020

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Ukraine's National Bank to conduct stress testing of 16 banks in 2020 (List)
15:21, 11.02.20 1653
The regulator will conduct a sustainability evaluation of all banks operating in Ukraine.
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unian--2020-02-11--Ukraine's NSDC secretary invited to Iran to join PS752 probe

According to local publications , Iran wants to smooth out all misunderstandings and is interested in international cooperation within the probe .
Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council ( NSDC ) of Ukraine Oleksiy Danilov has been invited to visit Tehran to join an Iranian probe into the downing of Ukraine International Airlines ( UIA ) flight PS752 in Iran on January 8 , 2020 .
Read alsoCanadian lawyers looking for US $ 1.1 bln in compensation from Iran in PS752 downing case Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of Iran Ali Shamkhani in a telephone conversation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resume cooperation and investigate the disaster jointly with Ukraine , according to the Ukrainian TSN TV news service .
Danilov , in turn , called on Iran to expedite the investigation .
According to local publications , Iran wants to smooth out all misunderstandings and is interested in international cooperation within the probe .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Kyiv-bound UIA flight PS752 crashed shortly after takeoff from Tehran 's Imam Khomeini International Airport in the early hours of January 8 .
It was carrying 167 passengers and nine crew members on board @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were Ukrainians .
There were also 82 citizens of Iran , 63 citizens of Canada , 10 citizens of Sweden , four citizens of Afghanistan , three citizens of Germany and the United Kingdom each .
There were no survivors .
On January 11 , Iranian President Hassan Rouhani officially admitted that the Ukrainian airliner had been shot down by accident as a result of a `` human error '' and that those responsible would be held accountable .
On February 2 , intercepted communications between Tehran Airport 's air traffic control tower @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Aseman Airlines flight at the time of the crash of flight PS752 were released by TSN.Tyzhden .
Tehran blamed the Ukrainian authorities for leaking what it described as confidential evidence , and said it would no longer share investigation materials with Ukraine .
Tehran has not yet handed over the PS752 black boxes to Kyiv , although the Iranian authorities do not have equipment to analyze them .

According to local publications, Iran wants to smooth out all misunderstandings and is interested in international cooperation within the probe.
Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) of Ukraine Oleksiy Danilov has been invited to visit Tehran to join an Iranian probe into the downing of Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) flight PS752 in Iran on January 8, 2020.
Read alsoCanadian lawyers looking for US$1.1 bln in compensation from Iran in PS752 downing case
Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of Iran Ali Shamkhani in a telephone conversation with Danilov said Iran was ready to resume cooperation and investigate the disaster jointly with Ukraine, according to the Ukrainian TSN TV news service.
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Danilov, in turn, called on Iran to expedite the investigation.
According to local publications, Iran wants to smooth out all misunderstandings and is interested in international cooperation within the probe.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Kyiv-bound UIA flight PS752 crashed shortly after takeoff from Tehran's Imam Khomeini International Airport in the early hours of January 8. It was carrying 167 passengers and nine crew members on board. Two passengers and the crew members were Ukrainians. There were also 82 citizens of Iran, 63 citizens of Canada, 10 citizens of Sweden, four citizens of Afghanistan, three citizens of Germany and the United Kingdom each. There were no survivors.
On January 11, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani officially admitted that the Ukrainian airliner had been shot down by accident as a result of a "human error" and that those responsible would be held accountable.
On February 2, intercepted communications between Tehran Airport's air traffic control tower and the second pilot of Iran's Aseman Airlines flight at the time of the crash of flight PS752 were released by TSN.Tyzhden. Tehran blamed the Ukrainian authorities for leaking what it described as confidential evidence, and said it would no longer share investigation materials with Ukraine.
Tehran has not yet handed over the PS752 black boxes to Kyiv, although the Iranian authorities do not have equipment to analyze them.


unian--2020-02-12--PM Honcharuk: Ukraine may get 'industrial visa-free' regime in coming years

Ukraine has fulfilled all conditions for the ACAA .
Ukrainian Prime Minister Oleksiy Honcharuk says the Cabinet of Ministers expects that Ukraine in the coming years will conclude an Agreement on Conformity Assessment and Acceptance of Industrial Products ( ACAA ) with the European Union ( EU ) , or the so-called `` industrial visa-free '' regime .
Read alsoUkraine to adopt 3,000 national standards harmonized with EU in 2019 – Kubiv '' The 'industrial visa-free ' regime , that is the signing of the ACAA with the European Union , is an important priority .
We expect to achieve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and get closer to signing [ the agreement ] in the coming years , '' he said at a joint briefing with European Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Olivér Várhelyi in Kyiv on February 11 .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Honcharuk in October 2019 announced Ukraine 's intention to get as close as possible to EU membership within five years .
Ukraine hopes for a special format of partnership within the European Union 's Eastern Partnership initiative , being interested in signing the ACAA , which will be a significant step towards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the head of government said Ukraine had fulfilled all conditions required for concluding the ACAA .

PM Honcharuk: Ukraine may get 'industrial visa-free' regime in coming years
14:06, 12.02.20 1687
Ukraine has fulfilled all conditions for the ACAA.
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unian--2020-02-12--Bad weather leaves 47 towns and villages in Ukraine without power

Regional energy distribution companies have deployed their repair teams to eliminate the aftermath of the blackouts .
Some 47 towns @ @ @ @ @ three regions have reported power cuts after the power line safety system was activated amid @ @ @ @ @ wet snow and strong winds .
Read alsoBad weather leaves 380 towns and villages in @ @ @ @ @ , the electricity supply was disrupted in 41 towns and villages in Ivano-Frankivsk region , @ @ @ @ @ Chernivtsi region each , the State Emergency Service 's press service has said .
Regional @ @ @ @ @ repair teams to eliminate the aftermath of the blackouts .
The State Emergency Service provided @ @ @ @ @ in which there were 246 people .
Some 20 fallen trees were removed .

Regional energy distribution companies have deployed their repair teams to eliminate the aftermath of the blackouts.
Some 47 towns and villages in Ukraine's three regions have reported power cuts after the power line safety system was activated amid the bad weather, namely wet snow and strong winds.
Read alsoBad weather leaves 380 towns and villages in Ukraine without power
In particular, the electricity supply was disrupted in 41 towns and villages in Ivano-Frankivsk region, three in Kyiv region and Chernivtsi region each, the State Emergency Service's press service has said.
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Regional energy distribution companies deployed their repair teams to eliminate the aftermath of the blackouts.
The State Emergency Service provided assistance in towing 116 vehicles in which there were 246 people. Some 20 fallen trees were removed.


unian--2020-02-12--Ukrainian president's chief of staff Yermak outlines priorities in new position

Yermak says ending the war in Donbas in the interests of Ukraine is one of them .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky 's newly appointed chief of staff Andriy Yermak has spoken about his goals and priorities in the new position .
`` As for the areas of work that I see .
First , I will not abandon those areas that I have recently been working on .
Of course , ending the war in Donbas in the interests of Ukraine is one of the priorities for the president , for the President 's Office today .
Therefore , this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ external areas will certainly remain on the radar screen , and I will deal with them too .
I think today Ukraine is in the center of global attention , and we can not miss this chance , and everything must be done so that the attention and interest that we have today translate into concrete results , '' he said at a briefing on Wednesday , an UNIAN correspondent reported .
Yermak called regional policy another important area of his activity .
`` We will work more effectively with the governors , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ official , another goal is to make Ukraine `` an investment Mecca . ''
`` We have concrete steps , programs on how to do this .
Our governors have received this task , the government – everyone involved in the investment climate – is engaged in this , '' Yermak said .
He added the President 's Office should become `` an expert office for the president of Ukraine with the best personnel , the most professional people who will help the president fulfill his function and achieve results in all areas @ @ @ @ @

Yermak says ending the war in Donbas in the interests of Ukraine is one of them.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's newly appointed chief of staff Andriy Yermak has spoken about his goals and priorities in the new position.
Read alsoYermak vows President's Office to guarantee freedom of speech, media independence
"As for the areas of work that I see. First, I will not abandon those areas that I have recently been working on. Of course, ending the war in Donbas in the interests of Ukraine is one of the priorities for the president, for the President's Office today. Therefore, this area remains a priority. Foreign and external areas will certainly remain on the radar screen, and I will deal with them too. I think today Ukraine is in the center of global attention, and we cannot miss this chance, and everything must be done so that the attention and interest that we have today translate into concrete results," he said at a briefing on Wednesday, an UNIAN correspondent reported.
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Yermak called regional policy another important area of his activity.
"We will work more effectively with the governors," he said.
According to the official, another goal is to make Ukraine "an investment Mecca."
"We have concrete steps, programs on how to do this. Our governors have received this task, the government – everyone involved in the investment climate – is engaged in this," Yermak said.
He added the President's Office should become "an expert office for the president of Ukraine with the best personnel, the most professional people who will help the president fulfill his function and achieve results in all areas of his activity."