unian--2020-09-30--An-26 crash: Engine failure ruled out, terror attack among versions

The investigation will also appoint an explosives test to confirm or refute the terror attack theory .
The State Bureau of Investigation probing last Friday 's An-26 plane crash that killed 26 people on board , including crew and air force cadets , is considering several versions of what could have caused the transport aircraft to plunge during landing , including a terrorist attack .
That 's according to the chief of the SBI 's Main Investigation Department , Maksym Borchakovsky , RBC Ukraine news agency reports .
According to the official , following the initial inspection of the scene @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data of the crew and dispatchers , the investigation has come up with four main versions of the crash cause : • Improper performance of official duties by persons responsible for flight control ; and The investigation will appoint an explosives test to confirm or refute the relevant terror attack theory .
Borchakovsky has also refuted the reports of engine failure .
He added that it was only one of the plane sensors that failed , namely a pressure sensor .
Read alsoMilitary plane carrying cadets crashes in Kharkiv region ( Photo , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he added the wreckage of the plane had been seized by the court as material evidence .
So far , the `` black boxes '' are being decrypted .
What is more , Borchakovsky said the investigation might publish transcripts of radio communications between the pilots and the tower to remove insinuations .
He said about 50 persons , including the only survivor , the air force cadet , had already testified to the SBI .
The bodies of cadets killed in the crash will be handed back to their families before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tests are completed .
The military plane crashed by the highway while approaching the Chuhuiv military airfield late on September 25 .
Kharkiv Air Force University 's crew and cadets were on board – a total of 27 people .
Twenty-five were killed at the crash site and one of the two survivors later died in hospital .
The only survivor is still undergoing treatment with no threat to his life reported .
Read alsoCCTV camera captures last seconds of tragic An-26 flight before crash ( Video ) According to the SBU Security @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left engine failure to the tower and requested an approach to land shortly before the crash .
Ukraine 's Defense Minister Andriy Taran , citing aviation experts , said one of the sensors in the engine of the An-26 transport military aircraft failed , as a result of which the plane 's wing caught on the ground as it was approaching the airfield near Chuhuiv before plunging and setting ablaze .
The An-26 that crashed on September 25 was manufactured in 1977 .
It had been operated as a training aircraft for the @ @ @

The investigation will also appoint an explosives test to confirm or refute the terror attack theory.
The State Bureau of Investigation probing last Friday's An-26 plane crash that killed 26 people on board, including crew and air force cadets, is considering several versions of what could have caused the transport aircraft to plunge during landing, including a terrorist attack.
That's according to the chief of the SBI's Main Investigation Department, Maksym Borchakovsky, RBC Ukraine news agency reports.
According to the official, following the initial inspection of the scene and the study of the radio exchange data of the crew and dispatchers, the investigation has come up with four main versions of the crash cause:
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Technical malfunction of aircraft units;
Improper performance of duties by crew;
Improper performance of official duties by persons responsible for flight control; and
Inadequate aircraft maintenance and flight preparation.
The investigation will appoint an explosives test to confirm or refute the relevant terror attack theory.
Borchakovsky has also refuted the reports of engine failure.
He added that it was only one of the plane sensors that failed, namely a pressure sensor.
Read alsoMilitary plane carrying cadets crashes in Kharkiv region (Photo, video): UPDATEDAt the same time, he added the wreckage of the plane had been seized by the court as material evidence. So far, the "black boxes" are being decrypted.
What is more, Borchakovsky said the investigation might publish transcripts of radio communications between the pilots and the tower to remove insinuations.
He said about 50 persons, including the only survivor, the air force cadet, had already testified to the SBI.
The bodies of cadets killed in the crash will be handed back to their families before the end of the week after DNA tests are completed.
An-26 crash in Chuhuiv: Background
The military plane crashed by the highway while approaching the Chuhuiv military airfield late on September 25.
Kharkiv Air Force University's crew and cadets were on board – a total of 27 people.
Twenty-five were killed at the crash site and one of the two survivors later died in hospital. The only survivor is still undergoing treatment with no threat to his life reported.
Read alsoCCTV camera captures last seconds of tragic An-26 flight before crash (Video)According to the SBU Security Service, the plane's captain reported left engine failure to the tower and requested an approach to land shortly before the crash.
Ukraine's Defense Minister Andriy Taran, citing aviation experts, said one of the sensors in the engine of the An-26 transport military aircraft failed, as a result of which the plane's wing caught on the ground as it was approaching the airfield near Chuhuiv before plunging and setting ablaze.
The An-26 that crashed on September 25 was manufactured in 1977. It had been operated as a training aircraft for the Air Force.


unian--2020-09-30--Foreign minister speaks on whether gov't to introduce entry restrictions

Kuleba said he advocates that , even in a pandemic , the opportunity for travel remains so that foreigners may enter Ukraine in compliance with certain basic rules .
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba says the government does not yet plan to introduce another restriction on the entry of foreigners into Ukraine .
`` As of now , the government does not intend to introduce another restriction on the entry of foreigners into Ukraine , '' Kuleba said at an online briefing on Wednesday , an UNIAN correspondent reports .
`` I am glad that the introduction of restrictions on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a tradition .
It was a force majeure decision that we were forced to make to protect citizens ' health and contain the spread of the pandemic , '' the minister said .
Kuleba said he advocates for the opportunity for travel to remain , even amid the pandemic , so that foreigners could come to Ukraine in compliance with certain basic rules , and this is the policy the government is implementing today .
On August 26 , 2020 , the Cabinet of Ministers extended the adaptive quarantine across Ukraine until November @ @ @ @ @ @ @ temporary entry ban for foreigners from August 29 until September 28 , with a number of exceptions for certain categories of foreign nationals .
One of such exceptions was reportedly made for Belarusian citizens fleeing amid unrest in their country .
Late on Thursday , August 27 , the Cabinet declared that the borders would be shut a day earlier , from midnight on August 28 .
It was reported on September 25 that Ukraine 's government does not plan to extend an entry ban for foreign nationals .
An entry ban for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Kuleba said he advocates that, even in a pandemic, the opportunity for travel remains so that foreigners may enter Ukraine in compliance with certain basic rules.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba says the government does not yet plan to introduce another restriction on the entry of foreigners into Ukraine.
"As of now, the government does not intend to introduce another restriction on the entry of foreigners into Ukraine," Kuleba said at an online briefing on Wednesday, an UNIAN correspondent reports.
"I am glad that the introduction of restrictions on the entry of foreigners didn't become a tradition. It was a force majeure decision that we were forced to make to protect citizens' health and contain the spread of the pandemic," the minister said.
Kuleba said he advocates for the opportunity for travel to remain, even amid the pandemic, so that foreigners could come to Ukraine in compliance with certain basic rules, and this is the policy the government is implementing today.
Read also
Read also Ukraine changes entry rules for foreigners Temporary entry ban for foreigners: Background
On August 26, 2020, the Cabinet of Ministers extended the adaptive quarantine across Ukraine until November 1.
Then the government imposed a temporary entry ban for foreigners from August 29 until September 28, with a number of exceptions for certain categories of foreign nationals.
One of such exceptions was reportedly made for Belarusian citizens fleeing amid unrest in their country.
Late on Thursday, August 27, the Cabinet declared that the borders would be shut a day earlier, from midnight on August 28.
It was reported on September 25 that Ukraine's government does not plan to extend an entry ban for foreign nationals.
An entry ban for foreign nationals was lifted on September 28.


unian--2020-09-30--Ukraine consistently supports Azerbaijan's territorial integrity – FM Kuleba

Following the resumption of hostilities , Kuleba instructed the embassies of Ukraine in Azerbaijan and Armenia to provide maximum assistance to Ukrainian citizens in those countries .
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba says Ukraine consistently supports the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan .
`` One of the cornerstones of Ukrainian foreign policy is support for the territorial integrity of states .
We have consistently supported the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan , just as Azerbaijan supported our territorial integrity within internationally recognized borders .
And this principle remains absolutely unchanged for us , '' Kuleba said at an online briefing , an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Council calls on Armenia , Azerbaijan to stop fightingAccording to Kuleba , the main thing in the Caucasus now is not to stir up the already very high emotions .
According to the foreign minister , in connection with the resumption of hostilities , he has instructed the embassies of Ukraine in Azerbaijan and Armenia to provide maximum assistance to Ukrainian citizens in those countries : to ensure the round-the-clock operation of hotlines , the embassies must establish contact with citizens in areas located in proximity to the zone of hostilities and promptly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that compatriots may find themselves in .
On the morning of Sunday , September 27 , Armenia and Azerbaijan resumed fighting in the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region .
Both countries blamed each other for shelling as a result of which they suffered casualties .
Armenia and the unrecognized Nagorno-Karabakh Republic declared martial law and general mobilization .
Azerbaijan , in turn , introduced martial law on September 28 .
Partial mobilization was announced in that country .
Azerbaijan said that during a successful offensive they gained control of several villages of Nagorno-Karabakh , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ claim that they inflicted huge losses on the enemy , numbering hundreds of killed soldiers and dozens of destroyed units of military equipment .
The UN Security Council has called on Armenia and Azerbaijan to immediately stop fighting .
• The conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia over the Nagorno-Karabakh region began in 1988 , when the predominantly Armenian-populated Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Oblast announced its withdrawal from the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic .
• In 1991-1994 , the bloodshed conflict continued in the region , which ended with the signing of a ceasefire protocol .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Azerbaijan did not recognize this , considering the territory to have been occupied by Armenia .

Following the resumption of hostilities, Kuleba instructed the embassies of Ukraine in Azerbaijan and Armenia to provide maximum assistance to Ukrainian citizens in those countries.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba says Ukraine consistently supports the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan.
"One of the cornerstones of Ukrainian foreign policy is support for the territorial integrity of states. We have consistently supported the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, just as Azerbaijan supported our territorial integrity within internationally recognized borders. And this principle remains absolutely unchanged for us," Kuleba said at an online briefing, an UNIAN correspondent reports.
Read alsoUN Security Council calls on Armenia, Azerbaijan to stop fightingAccording to Kuleba, the main thing in the Caucasus now is not to stir up the already very high emotions.
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"It is necessary now to work to reduce the degree of emotions and stop the bloodshed," he added.
According to the foreign minister, in connection with the resumption of hostilities, he has instructed the embassies of Ukraine in Azerbaijan and Armenia to provide maximum assistance to Ukrainian citizens in those countries: to ensure the round-the-clock operation of hotlines, the embassies must establish contact with citizens in areas located in proximity to the zone of hostilities and promptly respond to any issue or emergency situations that compatriots may find themselves in.
Escalation in Nagorno-Karabakh: Recent developments
On the morning of Sunday, September 27, Armenia and Azerbaijan resumed fighting in the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region. Both countries blamed each other for shelling as a result of which they suffered casualties.
Armenia and the unrecognized Nagorno-Karabakh Republic declared martial law and general mobilization.
Azerbaijan, in turn, introduced martial law on September 28. Partial mobilization was announced in that country.
Azerbaijan said that during a successful offensive they gained control of several villages of Nagorno-Karabakh, but Armenia denies the information.
Both sides claim that they inflicted huge losses on the enemy, numbering hundreds of killed soldiers and dozens of destroyed units of military equipment.
The UN Security Council has called on Armenia and Azerbaijan to immediately stop fighting.
Nagorno-Karabakh war: History


unian--2020-09-30--OSCE monitors report almost 1,400 ceasefire violations since latest truce announcement

The OSCE 's Special Monitoring Mission in Donbas say they have spotted almost 1,400 ceasefire violations since the latest truce was declared following the meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group ( Ukraine , Russia , and OSCE ) on July 22 .
`` Following agreement reached at the meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group on 22 July regarding additional measures to strengthen the ceasefire , from 00:01 on 27 July until the end of the reporting period , the SMM has so far recorded a total of 1,398 ceasefire violations in both Donetsk and Luhansk regions , '' reads the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Read alsoDonbas warzone update : Three Ukrainian soldiers wounded in booby-trap blastThe violations include `` 257 explosions , nine projectiles in flight , three muzzle flashes , 13 illumination flares and 1,116 bursts and shots . ''
Participants in the Trilateral Contact Group on the peace settlement in Donbas on July 22 agreed on a full and comprehensive ceasefire along the contact line from 00:01 on Monday , July 27 .
The new ceasefire regime was enforced at 00:01 Kyiv time on July 27 .
On the very first day of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forces mounted three attacks on Ukrainian positions in Donbas , eastern Ukraine .
Ukraine has reported more such violations over the latest period .
On September 15 , Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called ending war in Donbas and liberating Ukrainian territories his top priority .
On September 22 , Zelensky noted that the latest ceasefire agreement for Donbas had been effective for almost two months already .

This includes "1,116 bursts and shots."
The OSCE's Special Monitoring Mission in Donbas say they have spotted almost 1,400 ceasefire violations since the latest truce was declared following the meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group (Ukraine, Russia, and OSCE) on July 22.
"Following agreement reached at the meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group on 22 July regarding additional measures to strengthen the ceasefire, from 00:01 on 27 July until the end of the reporting period, the SMM has so far recorded a total of 1,398 ceasefire violations in both Donetsk and Luhansk regions," reads the OSCE SMM report published on September 29.
Read alsoDonbas warzone update: Three Ukrainian soldiers wounded in booby-trap blastThe violations include "257 explosions, nine projectiles in flight, three muzzle flashes, 13 illumination flares and 1,116 bursts and shots."
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Ceasefire in Donbas: Background
Participants in the Trilateral Contact Group on the peace settlement in Donbas on July 22 agreed on a full and comprehensive ceasefire along the contact line from 00:01 on Monday, July 27.
The new ceasefire regime was enforced at 00:01 Kyiv time on July 27.
On the very first day of the newly-agreed truce, Russia's hybrid military forces mounted three attacks on Ukrainian positions in Donbas, eastern Ukraine. Ukraine has reported more such violations over the latest period.
On September 15, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called ending war in Donbas and liberating Ukrainian territories his top priority.
On September 22, Zelensky noted that the latest ceasefire agreement for Donbas had been effective for almost two months already.


unian--2020-09-30--FM Kuleba explains how Ukraine intends to formally refer to Lukashenko

The minister was asked almost a week after he said Ukraine was not recognizing Lukashenko as Belarus ' legitimate president .
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has explained how Ukraine will officially refer to Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko .
During an online briefing on Wednesday , the minister was asked , how Ukraine would officially refer to Lukashenko and address him .
`` Alexander Lukashenko , '' Kuleba answered , according to an UNIAN correspondent .
Read alsoRisks `` immeasurable '' for Ukraine : Kuleba on Lukashenko 's friendship with RussiaThe foreign minister was also asked whether Lukashenko would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ illegitimate president .
`` These are excellent wordings for media , for headlines , for Facebook posts , but you 're asking about the official position , and I answer you , the official position is 'Alexander Lukashenko ' , '' he said .
Alexander Lukashenko has repeatedly claimed `` foreign interference '' in the election and external efforts to foment the protests .
He spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin who had promised him comprehensive assistance upon request .
On August 27 , Putin suggested sending Russian security forces to suppress protests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ non-recognition of the Belarus election results and reached an agreement to impose sanctions against Belarusian officials in response to vote rigging and the use of violence against protesters .
On September 15 , the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted a statement on Belarus .
Ukrainian lawmakers said the presidential elections in that country were unfair .
They condemned repression against protesters and vowed support for sanctions to be introduced by the European Union against Belarusian officials .
On September 14 , Putin received Lukashenko in Russia 's Sochi .
During the meeting , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ billion to Belarus .
After the meeting , the Kremlin announced they would recognize Lukashenko as the only legitimate president of Belarus .
On September 23 , Lukashenko was sworn in as President of Belarus during an inaugural ceremony held behind closed doors in the Palace of Independence in Minsk .
On September 24 , Kuleba said Ukraine does not recognize Alexandr Lukashenko a legitimate head of Belarus following the latter 's inauguration .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Ukraine is in solidarity with the position of the European Union on the events @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Belarus .
On September 27 , French President Emmanuel Macron said Alexander Lukashenko must step down , days after the European Union 's foreign policy chief said the Belarusian strongman 's “ so-called inauguration ” lacked democratic legitimacy .

The minister was asked almost a week after he said Ukraine was not recognizing Lukashenko as Belarus' legitimate president.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has explained how Ukraine will officially refer to Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko.
During an online briefing on Wednesday, the minister was asked, how Ukraine would officially refer to Lukashenko and address him.
"Alexander Lukashenko," Kuleba answered, according to an UNIAN correspondent.
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Read alsoRisks "immeasurable" for Ukraine: Kuleba on Lukashenko's friendship with RussiaThe foreign minister was also asked whether Lukashenko would be referred to as an illegally elected or illegitimate president.
"These are excellent wordings for media, for headlines, for Facebook posts, but you're asking about the official position, and I answer you, the official position is 'Alexander Lukashenko'," he said.
Belarus election: Reactions
Alexander Lukashenko has repeatedly claimed "foreign interference" in the election and external efforts to foment the protests. He spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin who had promised him comprehensive assistance upon request.
On August 27, Putin suggested sending Russian security forces to suppress protests in Belarus.
The European Union declared non-recognition of the Belarus election results and reached an agreement to impose sanctions against Belarusian officials in response to vote rigging and the use of violence against protesters.
On September 15, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted a statement on Belarus. Ukrainian lawmakers said the presidential elections in that country were unfair. They condemned repression against protesters and vowed support for sanctions to be introduced by the European Union against Belarusian officials.
On September 14, Putin received Lukashenko in Russia's Sochi. During the meeting, Putin promised to lend US$1.5 billion to Belarus. After the meeting, the Kremlin announced they would recognize Lukashenko as the only legitimate president of Belarus.
On September 23, Lukashenko was sworn in as President of Belarus during an inaugural ceremony held behind closed doors in the Palace of Independence in Minsk.
On September 24, Kuleba said Ukraine does not recognize Alexandr Lukashenko a legitimate head of Belarus following the latter's inauguration.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Ukraine is in solidarity with the position of the European Union on the events taking place after the presidential elections in Belarus.
On September 27, French President Emmanuel Macron said Alexander Lukashenko must step down, days after the European Union's foreign policy chief said the Belarusian strongman's “so-called inauguration” lacked democratic legitimacy.


unian--2020-09-30--Ex-Prosecutor General Lutsenko says undergoing cancer treatment

At the same time , Lutsenko said he remains in politics .
Former Prosecutor General of Ukraine Yuriy Lutsenko has said he is being treated for cancer .
`` Today [ ... ] the surgical stage of my oncological disease has ended .
Thanks to the Ukrainian and German doctors .
An eight-hour surgery and the days of pain are behind .
Chemotherapy is still ahead , '' Lutsenko wrote on Facebook .
At the same time , Lutsenko said he will remain in politics .
`` Dear friends , everything will be fine .
Because I know how many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are together .
Dear foes , stay alert .
I remain in politics and wo n't retreat from the front line , '' he said .
• Lutsenko was appointed Prosecutor General of Ukraine on May 12 , 2016 .
• On June 11 , 2019 , Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a submission to the Verkhovna Rada on Lutsenko 's dismissal .
On the same day , a draft resolution to dismiss Lutsenko was registered in Parliament .
The reason for the dismissal was the lack of higher legal education .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Verkhovna Rada with a request to immediately consider the motion on relieving Yuriy Lutsenko of the top prosecutor 's post .
• On July 23 , Zelensky announced Deputy Head of the President 's Office , Ruslan Riaboshapka , was being considered as Lutsenko 's possible successor .

At the same time, Lutsenko said he remains in politics.
Former Prosecutor General of Ukraine Yuriy Lutsenko has said he is being treated for cancer.
"Today [...] the surgical stage of my oncological disease has ended. Thanks to the Ukrainian and German doctors. An eight-hour surgery and the days of pain are behind. Chemotherapy is still ahead," Lutsenko wrote on Facebook.
At the same time, Lutsenko said he will remain in politics.
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"Dear friends, everything will be fine. Because I know how many of you are and how strong we are together. Dear foes, stay alert. I remain in politics and won't retreat from the front line," he said.
Yuriy Lutsenko: Background


unian--2020-09-30--Zelensky says airport to be built in Vinnytsia

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Zelensky says airport to be built in Vinnytsia
12:45, 30.09.20 1451
Large-scale construction of runways and terminals will be launched at airports across country in 2021.
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unian--2020-09-30--Finance Minister: "No IMF tranche" scenario off table

Finance Minister: "No IMF tranche" scenario off table
12:20, 30.09.20 272
Marchenko said the IMF mission is expected to arrive in October or November 2020.
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unian--2020-09-30--Daily COVID-19 spike in Ukraine hits new high with 4,027 cases on Sept 30

The total number of confirmed cases grew to 208,959 .
Ukraine said 4,027 new active COVID-19 cases had been confirmed across the country in the past 24 hours as of September 30 , 2020 , marking yet another highest daily rise .
The total number of confirmed cases grew to 208,959 , as reported by the Health Ministry on Telegram .
As many as 92,360 patients , including 2,110 in the past day , have recovered .
Read alsoTravel amid COVID-19 : Foreigners now allowed to cross into Ukraine from Sept 28In total , 2,278,248 polymerase chain reaction ( PCR @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outbreak .
The overall incidence per region is as follows : • 22,778 cases in the city of Kyiv ; Data from Russia-occupied areas – the Autonomous Republic of Crimea , the city of Sevastopol , parts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions – is not available .
COVID-19 tests were run by the Public Health Center 's virological reference laboratory and regional laboratories .
As of the morning of September 30 , 2020 , the Center had received 4,551 reports of suspected cases .
In total , there have been 275,229 reports on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Read alsoUkraine changes entry rules for foreignersQuarantine in Ukraine : Background The adaptive quarantine was introduced on August 1 .
The Ukrainian regions were split into the green , yellow , orange , and red zones depending on hospital load , the average number of PCR and ELISA tests , the ascertainment rate of COVID-19 , and daily spread dynamics .
Quarantine-related curbs differ in each zone .
The mildest ones are in the green zone , the regions included in the red zone will have to introduce the toughest restrictions .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ministers extended the adaptive quarantine until November 1 .
Health Minister Maksym Stepanov says the ministry has no plans to introduce a new lockdown in Ukraine yet .
The new quarantine zoning across Ukraine reviewed by the state and regional commissions on emergencies quarantine zoning in line with the latest reports on the epidemiological situation took effect on September 28 .

The total number of confirmed cases grew to 208,959.
Ukraine said 4,027 new active COVID-19 cases had been confirmed across the country in the past 24 hours as of September 30, 2020, marking yet another highest daily rise.
The total number of confirmed cases grew to 208,959, as reported by the Health Ministry on Telegram.
As many as 92,360 patients, including 2,110 in the past day, have recovered.
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The death toll stands at 4,129.
Read alsoTravel amid COVID-19: Foreigners now allowed to cross into Ukraine from Sept 28In total, 2,278,248 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests have been run since the outbreak.
The overall incidence per region is as follows:
22,778 cases in the city of Kyiv;
20,350 in Lviv region;
18,678 in Kharkiv region;
14,446 in Chernivtsi region;
13,700 in Ivano-Frankivsk region;
13,529 in Odesa region;
13,514 in Ternopil region;
12,411 in Rivne region;
9,819 in Zakarpattia region;
9,139 in Kyiv region;
8,059 in Volyn region;
6,194 in Vinnytsia region;
6,068 in Khmelnytsky region;
5,923 in Zhytomyr region;
5,822 in Dnipropetrovsk region;
4,223 in Sumy region;
4,127 in Chernihiv region;
3,995 in Zaporizhia region;
4,022 in Cherkasy region;
3,477 in Donetsk region (Ukrainian-controlled districts);
3,163 in Mykolaiv region;
2,231 in Poltava region;
1,134 in Kherson region;
1,108 in Kirovohrad region; and
1,049 in Luhansk region (Ukrainian-controlled districts).
Data from Russia-occupied areas – the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, the city of Sevastopol, parts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions – is not available.
COVID-19 tests were run by the Public Health Center's virological reference laboratory and regional laboratories. As of the morning of September 30, 2020, the Center had received 4,551 reports of suspected cases. In total, there have been 275,229 reports on suspected COVID-19 since the beginning of 2020.
Read alsoUkraine changes entry rules for foreignersQuarantine in Ukraine: Background
The adaptive quarantine was introduced on August 1. The Ukrainian regions were split into the green, yellow, orange, and red zones depending on hospital load, the average number of PCR and ELISA tests, the ascertainment rate of COVID-19, and daily spread dynamics.
Quarantine-related curbs differ in each zone. The mildest ones are in the green zone, the regions included in the red zone will have to introduce the toughest restrictions.
On August 26, the Cabinet of Ministers extended the adaptive quarantine until November 1.
Health Minister Maksym Stepanov says the ministry has no plans to introduce a new lockdown in Ukraine yet.
The new quarantine zoning across Ukraine reviewed by the state and regional commissions on emergencies quarantine zoning in line with the latest reports on the epidemiological situation took effect on September 28.


unian--2020-09-30--President's Office comments on Fokin's controversial Donbas statements

Those representing the government should prioritize state interests over personal beliefs , the President 's Office states .
The President 's Office says they are `` struck by personal assessments and comments '' by First Deputy Chairman of the Ukrainian delegation to the Minsk Trilateral Contact Group ( TCG ) on Donbas Vitold Fokin on the war in Donbas and Crimea .
According to the President 's Office , those representing the government should prioritize state interests over personal beliefs .
`` Everyone who represents the state should always remember the official stance should not be confused with the personal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in positions , and your own vision , whatever it may be , differs from that of the government , you need to choose the government 's one as long as you represent it .
Not a personal , but namely a government vision , '' the President 's Office reported on Facebook .
Read alsoRussian armed forces ' military aggression only factor leading to Ilovaisk tragedy – prosecutor 's officeIt was with the Russian invasion that the occupation of Crimea began , as well as of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This is the country that fully controls the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine and has a decisive influence on everything that is happening there , '' the President 's Office said .
At the same time , the statement said nothing about Fokin 's further participation in delegation 's work .
Vitold Fokin , the first prime minister of Ukraine who is now deputy chair of Ukraine 's delegation to the Trilateral Contact Group on Donbas settlement , says he `` does not see '' a war between Ukraine and Russia ongoing in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believes that mercenaries from 30 countries have been fighting against the Ukrainian Army ; and that he is convinced a comprehensive pardon is needed for those who committed crimes in Donbas .
The statements came as he was doing a Q & A at a Parliament Committee on Tuesday , September 29 .
It took Fokin several weeks to report to Parliament to clarify his position after a notorious interview he gave to one of the pro-Russian outlets .
Read alsoNSDC chief on Ukrainian negotiators ' notorious statements : `` Own opinions '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of those from the pro-Russian Opposition Platform – For Life Party , backed a motion asking President Volodymyr Zelensky to recall Fokin from the Ukrainian delegation at Minsk talks .
The official position of the Ukrainian delegation to the Trilateral Contact Group was announced by Head of the delegation , Leonid Kravchuk , his first deputy Oleksiy Reznikov , and deputy Oleksandr Merezhko , who said : `` Mr. Fokin , like any person , has the right to his own position , no matter how strange it may seem .
But being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ negotiations with the TCG , we must adhere exclusively to the official position of our government , even when we do not participate in talks . ''
Interior Minister Arsen Avakov , in turn , posted an emotionally charged response to criticize Fokin 's statement .
`` [ Mr. ] Fokin , thousands of our soldiers and civilians were killed in the war , which , as you claim , is n't there .
Tell this to the families of those who died from Russia 's multiple rocket launchers near Saur-Mohyla and Ilovaisk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't there ' – these are the words of [ Russian President Vladimir ] Putin , rather than those of Ukraine representative , '' the minister said .
Deputy Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council ( NSDC ) Serhiy Kryvonos dubbed Fokin a 'senile , blind fool . '
Head of the Ukrainian President 's Office Andriy Yermak said Fokin `` must resign '' over his controversial statements .

Those representing the government should prioritize state interests over personal beliefs, the President's Office states.
The President's Office says they are "struck by personal assessments and comments" by First Deputy Chairman of the Ukrainian delegation to the Minsk Trilateral Contact Group (TCG) on Donbas Vitold Fokin on the war in Donbas and Crimea.
According to the President's Office, those representing the government should prioritize state interests over personal beliefs.
"Everyone who represents the state should always remember the official stance should not be confused with the personal one. If there is a difference in positions, and your own vision, whatever it may be, differs from that of the government, you need to choose the government's one as long as you represent it. Not a personal, but namely a government vision," the President's Office reported on Facebook.
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Read alsoRussian armed forces' military aggression only factor leading to Ilovaisk tragedy – prosecutor's officeIt was with the Russian invasion that the occupation of Crimea began, as well as of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, the Office recalls.
"This is the country that fully controls the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine and has a decisive influence on everything that is happening there," the President's Office said.
At the same time, the statement said nothing about Fokin's further participation in delegation's work.
"Of course, Vitold Fokin's statements, which are categorically at variance with the official positions of the government, have already been properly assessed – first of all, by the public who have paid a great price for their ideals. It is impossible not to understand this," reads the report.
Reactions to Fokin's controversial statement
Vitold Fokin, the first prime minister of Ukraine who is now deputy chair of Ukraine's delegation to the Trilateral Contact Group on Donbas settlement, says he "does not see" a war between Ukraine and Russia ongoing in the country's east; that he believes that mercenaries from 30 countries have been fighting against the Ukrainian Army; and that he is convinced a comprehensive pardon is needed for those who committed crimes in Donbas. The statements came as he was doing a Q&A at a Parliament Committee on Tuesday, September 29. It took Fokin several weeks to report to Parliament to clarify his position after a notorious interview he gave to one of the pro-Russian outlets.
Read alsoNSDC chief on Ukrainian negotiators' notorious statements: "Own opinions"All committee members, with the exception of those from the pro-Russian Opposition Platform – For Life Party, backed a motion asking President Volodymyr Zelensky to recall Fokin from the Ukrainian delegation at Minsk talks.
The official position of the Ukrainian delegation to the Trilateral Contact Group was announced by Head of the delegation, Leonid Kravchuk, his first deputy Oleksiy Reznikov, and deputy Oleksandr Merezhko, who said: "Mr. Fokin, like any person, has the right to his own position, no matter how strange it may seem. But being part of the Ukrainian delegation at the negotiations with the TCG, we must adhere exclusively to the official position of our government, even when we do not participate in talks."
Interior Minister Arsen Avakov, in turn, posted an emotionally charged response to criticize Fokin's statement. "[Mr.] Fokin, thousands of our soldiers and civilians were killed in the war, which, as you claim, isn't there. Tell this to the families of those who died from Russia's multiple rocket launchers near Saur-Mohyla and Ilovaisk!? You scoundrel. 'They aren't there' – these are the words of [Russian President Vladimir] Putin, rather than those of Ukraine representative," the minister said.
Deputy Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) Serhiy Kryvonos dubbed Fokin a 'senile, blind fool.'
Head of the Ukrainian President's Office Andriy Yermak said Fokin "must resign" over his controversial statements.


unian--2020-09-30--Hryvnia slightly strengthens to U.S. dollar on Sept 30

Hryvnia slightly strengthens to U.S. dollar on Sept 30 The official forex rate against the euro for Wednesday is fixed @ @ @ @ @

Hryvnia slightly strengthens to U.S. dollar on Sept 30
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The official forex rate against the euro for Wednesday is fixed at UAH 33.13 per euro
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unian--2020-09-30--MP Artem Kovalev: The Dutch tell us about solar-powered vessels, while we show them the Dnieper lock

MP Artem Kovalev: The Dutch tell us about solar-powered vessels, while we show them the Dnieper locks in disrepair and a spinning rod as a "secret" locking technology...

Artem Kovalev , head of the subcommittee on river transport at the Parliament 's Transport and Infrastructure Committee , ideologist and co-author of a high-profile bill on inland water transport , which is expected to revolutionize the national transport industry and tabled for a second reading on September 30 , told UNIAN about the essence of the major reform and the critical state of the Ukrainian river infrastructure at the moment .
The Verkhovna Rada will soon vote on a new bill on water transport , which you co-authored .
What 's it about and why is it so significant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Today , it 's priority legislation for Ukraine 's transport industry .
The bill will cover and regulate all spheres regarding inland water transport : state regulation , functioning , infrastructure , transportation of goods and passengers , navigation and its safety , the liability of shipowners , and so on .
Also , it is aimed at the implementation of the basic provisions of eight EU directives and two regulations in the field of water transport in accordance with the Ukraine-EU Association Agreement .
In fact , with this bill , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transport with that of the EU .
How long have you been working on the bill ?
When did you start ?
We started developing it from the very beginning of our work in the Verkhovna Rada of the ninth convocation .
That is , from September 2019 .
Over this period , we 've already held more than thirty various events .
These were round tables , conferences , and meetings with experts , market players , our Western partners , representatives of relevant committees and ministries , as well as legal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or indirectly engaged in water transport issues .
Why else is this law so complex ?
Well , it 's because it lays at the intersection of interests of many industries .
It 's about transport , shipbuilding , energy , water resources , environmental watchdogs , police , border guards , port workers , farmers , steelmakers – all those who potentially seek to increase the volume of cargo transportation by river ...
Therefore , we held those meetings in order to take into account all the said interests , but at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work and be effective in terms of regulating and stimulating the development of inland waterway transport and waterways as such .
How long has the industry been operating without a relevant law in place and why is its adoption so important today ?
The issues of inland waterways navigation have never been legally regulated since Ukraine gained independence .
Since then , there 's been plenty of water under the bridge .
The first attempts to pass the bill on inland waterway transport in one form or another came in 2009 , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to the confrontation between various groups of influence and the political lobby , the move failed .
The entire industry had no law to be governed with .
So its absence and lack of government support could not contribute to the river transport development .
Therefore , today we 're observing a collapsed river infrastructure , river locks in disrepair , a decrease in annual freight traffic to 12 million tonnes against 60 million tonnes in Soviet times .
Tell us about your work on the project .
Whose experience did you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
We studied the experience of EU member states , met with our European colleagues .
In particular , it was the Netherlands and Germany – both countries with some very developed navigation .
For example , in the Netherlands , the seaport of Rotterdam , one of the world 's largest , handles 500 million tonnes of cargo per year , while all thirteen Ukrainian seaports combined in 2019 handled only 160 million tonnes .
In the Netherlands , a fairly large share of water transportation is , in fact , private @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just a group of people buys a ship by installments and then cargo is delivered from point `` A '' to point `` B '' .
Moreover , everything is very simple there .
There 's a program that shows ports of departure and ports of delivery to transport a certain cargo ...
Yes , roughly speaking .
Therefore , water logistics in the Netherlands is really streamlined and highly developed .
Obviously , we also have huge opportunities to increase the volume of cargo transportation by water .
Our three rivers : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Pivdennyi Buh are on the list of international waterways .
But we still have a number of issues in place that hinder the development of this area , the main of which are the devastated infrastructure and the lack of the required cargo fleet .
Yes , please tell us about the state of our river infrastructure .
How bad is it now , and what do you propose to change ?
Its state is deplorable .
All locks need major repairs .
Today their wear is at 75 % , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ river logistics , but also of safety .
It is necessary to repair locks throughout the Dnieper cascade and do strategic dredging .
Plus , we have to keep an eye on our information infrastructure – we are talking about modernization of navigation equipment , which , again , is directly related to the safety of navigation .
I 'll tell you a showing story , which is both sad and funny .
As part of the inspection of the Ukrainian river infrastructure , my Dutch colleagues and I visited the Kyiv lock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a dilapidated building with obsolete equipment dating back to 1960s , with no elevator available , somewhere near the exit door , a Dutch infrastructure ministry official spotted an old spinning rod with a plastic bottle tied to it .
So he asked the senior lady , the gateway operator , what exactly was this rod about .
As it turned out , with the help of such an unsophisticated device , the paperwork is delivered from vessels proceeding through the lock !
What the operator does is she opens her window @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bottle tied to the line for the crew to put their paperwork in .
So this is how they proceed through !
What is our river transport 's potential ?
All over the world , shipping by water is the cheapest and most environmentally friendly way of delivering goods .
In Ukraine , only 10 % of the 4,000 kilometers of waterways are being used now .
Less than 1 % of all cargo is transported by river .
For comparison , in the EU it 's 7 % .
At the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are among Europe 's five largest rivers .
Compared to other modes of transport , whose throughput is limited , inland waterway transport has an undoubted advantage , namely the possibility of a significant increase in the volume of freight transportation and the possibility of transporting bulky cargoes .
The Dnieper , the Danube , and the Dniester are defined by the European agreement the most important inland waterways of international importance .
Having analyzed the current situation , we conclude that the predicted volume of freight transportation along the Dnieper River , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has the potential to grow to the level of 45 million tonnes annually .
This is 30 million tonnes of exports and 15 million tonnes of imports As you said earlier , the water transport bill is at the intersection of the interests of many industries .
Who resists the reform the most ?
Most industries and businesses support the bill .
But among the opponents are some players who are afraid of losing their monopoly position , while some are simply against clear rules and regulation – they feel comfortable amid the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that are now holding a monopoly position on rivers , considering them their property , are least interested in the adoption of this bill .
On the one hand , companies that have built major businesses and still survive in this industry even under the current conditions are doing a great job .
But on the other hand , we understand that the absence of a law hinders the development of the entire market .
Therefore , we are in favor of giving the opportunity to everyone willing to gain access to infrastructure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place , accordingly , the cost of services will become competitive .
Now the agrarians are forced to first bring their cargo to the silo , then wait until companies who own ships are able to transport it further along the river dictating their prices .
What we want is to let these agrarians , roughly speaking , to be able to put their cargo from a grain truck directly to the ship .
This will provide opportunities to develop not only to huge silos but also to small ones , as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
What are the arguments of the bill 's opponents ?
Some argue that the law will kill shipbuilding – which , in fact , we do n't have as such .
Incidentally , we 're also preparing a separate bill to stimulate it ... We believe that even those foreign players who will come in if the law is passed , will over time also begin to build at Ukrainian capacities .
That 's because in our country , in view of the specifics of the locks and the cascade of reservoirs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hand , are limited in size , and on the other , they have a special design that allows them to remain stable in reservoirs , where waves could be as high as two meters and more .
Therefore , from the point of view of economic effect , if a player comes to our market , being ready to play a long game , it is easier for them to build ships of the Ukrainian `` Dnieper '' design than to import self-propelled barges from , say , Danube and lose money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the load on Ukrainian vessels are higher than those on foreign analogs .
Other opponents of the bill argue that it allegedly could harm the environment .
However , all over the world , transportation by water is the most environmentally friendly way of delivering goods , and by reorienting cargo from motorways , we will significantly reduce CO2 emissions .
Also , by developing river infrastructure and doing dredging works , we will make our rivers clearer .
As for discharges from ships , we laid down in the bill the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a certified treatment system , it can discharge purified water into the river .
If not , the crew shall only be allowed to discharge in the port for further processing .
This is in line with international practice .
It is prohibited to dump any contaminated water .
Another bizarre argument of our opponents is that opening up the water freight market for international companies would allegedly threaten national security .
It 's just ridiculous , nothing but speculation .
We 're not giving access to our inland waterways to the aggressor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out in the bill .
Moreover , we clearly set out the requirements for the technical condition of vessels to be allowed to operate on our rivers , in order to exclude the possibility of obsolete `` fish cans '' being brought to our country .
Opponents also voiced a suggestion that with this bill we seek to legalize subsoil theft , that 's sand , during dredging .
This is also not the case .
Over the years of Ukraine 's independence , a situation has developed where , under the guise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ without the relevant permits .
Now dredging is a state function , and accordingly , colossal money is spent on it from the state budget .
At the same time , this money is spent extremely inefficiently : for example , a state-owned company spends an average of UAH 150 to raise a cubic meter of soil during dredging , while a private operator is ready to do the same work for UAH 55-60 , that 's the government 's price tag is thrice as high .
With the help of the law @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of dredging works and apply a formula where , say , the river is divided into sections , and companies , be they public or private , compete at biddings for the right to manage a specific section , where they undertake to maintain the required parameters of the navigable course and guarantee required depths in line with the developed project .
This means it will be open biddings where the winner is the one who offers the state the lowest price for their services .
Part of the soil extracted during dredging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Also , the company will be able to sell the surplus , having received a special permit from the State Geological Agency , and all volumes sold will be transparent and controlled .
And when the state pays the company for its dredging services , this will be the amount contracted at the auction minus proceeds from the surplus soil sold by the company .
This concept will save money in dredging works and allow to at least somehow track the soil that 's being extracted .
Moreover , if the company @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fines will ensue , along with contract termination .
We 've been hearing these boogeyman stories about the fate of our shipbuilding , discharge , threats to national security , and illegal extraction for 12 years already , while the industry just continued to decline .
People can argue for a long time over each letter in the text but I believe that the bill needs to be adopted and that the industry , which is in now a critical state , should be relaunched .
After all , if businesses – market @ @ @ @ @ @ @ law can be any time amended .
However , the industry needs to work .
Otherwise – we 're bound to observe this horrible difference we 're seeing now – when the Dutch tell us on our trips about solar-powered ships , while we show them locks in disrepair and `` secret technologies '' with spinning rods ...
Moreover , we have provided for a transition period of three years for many of our initiatives .
What economic effect do you expect to see from the bill 's implementation , and when ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ start of river transport reform .
This is the development of freight and passenger traffic on rivers , guarantees of the proper maintenance of the river infrastructure , guarantees of equal access for all operators .
We want to stimulate the creation of an open and competitive water transport market .
If we speak about indicators , this will allow us in the next three-four years to increase freight river transportation to 30 million tonnes per year with a direct economic effect for the state at UAH 13-16 billion ( US $ 460-566 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will allow for the development of related areas and businesses with a direct economic effect of UAH 17-18 billion per year .
The adoption of the bill will create up to 10,000 new jobs in the industry , increase budget revenues .
In addition , it will create the necessary conditions for private investment in construction and repair of river ports .
Moreover , the bill will stimulate the development of shipbuilding with the attraction of Ukrainian and foreign investment , Will the cost of river logistics increase for businesses ?
It wo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abolition of a number of fees for carriers .
The following will be canceled : fees for proceeding through locks , fees for special water use ( there will be a separate law on amendments to the Tax Code ) , and fees for opening bridge spans .
Moreover , for inland navigation vessels , a number of discounts are provided on port dues in seaports .
Everything you have described will require significant investment in river infrastructure .
Where are we supposed to get the money ?
For the effective maintenance of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UAH 760 million per year .
This amount includes ensuring the functioning of the navigation locks of the Dnieper cascade , works to maintain navigable dimensions on river routes , the functioning of the River Information Service , and navigational and hydrographic support of navigation on river routes .
Due to the systematic underfunding of the industry , a dangerous situation with locks has developed , the strategic river infrastructure has been almost completely ruined , while the length of inland waterways has decreased significantly .
For example , this year , UAH @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the repair of locks , but the amount was later reduced to UAH 40 million .
The bill provides for a stable financing mechanism not only for the river infrastructure maintenance , but also for capital investment and modernization .
We want to create a State Fund for Inland Waterways Development .
Its ideology is to have payments to the budget made on the river go to river development .
Accordingly , the Fund will be filled from three main sources .
First , this is 1 % of the excise tax on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on fuel imported into the customs territory of Ukraine .
That 's approximately how much fuel is currently consumed by river transport of the total volume .
It 's 1 % .
So everything is fair .
Secondly , 3 % per month from customs payments paid when ships are put into the `` temporary import '' customs regime .
It is paid for ships intended to be operated under a foreign flag on our inland waterways – by the way , this norm additionally protects national shipowners .
And thirdly , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the special use of water for the needs of hydropower generation .
This norm will cover part of the cost of maintaining the locks without increasing tariffs for electricity generated by HPPs .
You mentioned the issue of allowing access to Ukrainian inland waters for ships flying a foreign flag .
Will Ukrainian ships get access to foreign rivers , too ?
Now foreign ships are allowed to enter our inland waterways after receiving a one-time permit .
There is a corruption factor here .
Ships flying a foreign flag can not work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to deal with obtaining these permits all the time , and we all know how some permits are issued ... With our bill , we want to liberalize the river transport market and open it to all players .
For example , according to EU legislation , only ships flying the flag of EU member states can operate on their inland waterways .
Therefore , they are still closed for us .
But with our law , we are taking the first step by harmonizing our legislation with that of the EU .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ships flying the Ukrainian flag will be able to operate there , too .
Will ships flying Ukrainian and foreign flags operate on equal terms ?
After all , foreigners will be able to not pay part of the taxes ...
Yes , at first glance , it may seem that foreign ship owners will bear a significantly lower fiscal burden and not pay single social contribution , income tax for individuals , military duty , and income tax .
But do n't forget that the owners of will still bear tax @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's registration .
Moreover , foreign shipowners , unlike Ukrainian ones , must pay a repatriation tax of 6 % of the freight and a significantly higher rate for pilotage services to the Ukrainian budget , while the resident charterer pays VAT for foreign ships .
Also , any fiscal advantages are balanced out , given the need for foreigners to pay customs duties for the temporary import of their ships into the customs territory of Ukraine .
As I already said , such a fee is 3 % per month of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the vessel , while money from those payments are set to be sent to a special fund for the development of Ukraine 's inland waterways .
Foreign ships will also pay excise tax on fuel .
Such conditions allow Ukrainian ships to remain in an even more advantageous position .
Obviously , the development of water transport will significantly relieve the burden on roads and railways .
Accordingly , wo n't your bill deal a blow to road and rail carriers ?
Why are all cargoes most actively transported by road now ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ buying a truck is much cheaper than buying a barge , building a terminal or a silo .
But , on the other hand , we understand that now transport is profitable only for one reason : trucks drive on our roads with significant overload .
But if these carriers are forced to ship goods by the rules , profitability of national road transportation will drop dramatically .
Taking into account the fact that the Great Construction Project is currently underway in Ukraine , more weighing stations will appear on our roads , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ already increased – we will reach the point where overloading vehicles will become unprofitable .
In other words , transporting the same volume of goods will simply require more trucks or shifts .
So no one will stand idle , but the river will grab the excess of these cargoes .
On the other hand , by reorienting bulky cargoes to the river , we will significantly relieve our roads .
For example , two barges replace 250 trucks .
And , as a result , we will save significantly on road repairs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transported by river will save UAH 1 billion on road repairs over four years .
If we talk about rail transportation , many understand that , on the one hand , tariffs there are now actually understated for certain players .
On the other hand , go try , as an outsider , to find free rail cars and locomotives to transport your cargo ...
Yes , all cargo owners complain about the lack of locomotives and rail cars in Ukraine ... … Therefore , I do n't think that the development of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other carriers .
This will enable businesses to get cheaper logistics .
The development of river logistics will also significantly improve the environmental situation .
After the first reading , more than a thousand amendments were made to the text of the bill .
Is it because the original text was imperfect , or what ?
I would divide the amendments to this bill into three types .
The first ones are really the ones that improved the bill or simply had an alternative point of view .
The second group of amendments @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did n't even relate to the nature of the bill .
And the third one is indeed the amendments that the businesses requested in terms of stimulating the development of the industry .
These are the amendments proposing either to simplify bureaucratic procedures , or to regulate them , or not to introduce any procedures that would complicate the work during the implementation of the new law .
What changes have you made to the text in-between the two readings ?
In April , we passed the bill at first reading , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , taking into account about 90 % of the amendments and comments submitted by businesses , MPs , and ministries .
For example , we have provided free registration of ship 's logs instead of having them issued .
The procedure for maintaining the register of infrastructure facilities , for its greater transparency , was outlined in accordance with Law On the Licensing System in the Field of Economic Activity .
Licensing will remain only for passenger transport and hazardous cargoes .
Also , we introduced a special permit for the sale of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the possibility of discharging wastewater from ships only after treatment and disinfection , excluded the possibility of financing the inland water transport infrastructure at the expense of port dues .
River ports will be allowed to provide services to ships with a maximum draft of more than 4.5 meters – but on condition that they 've paid the stipulated fees at the nearest seaport .
And so on and so forth ...
I believe that the final version of the bill is the best version of all previously developed documents .
Does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
The introduction of new registers and procedures in the draft law is due to the need to implement EU directives and regulations in accordance with the Association Agreement .
We are not introducing any other kinds of new permits .
In your opinion , will there be enough votes in the session hall to pass the bill ?
Between the first and second readings , we did a lot of work .
The law is balanced and well-weighed .
It is clear that we can try to improve the text for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ industry will have no opportunities to develop , declining even more over the years ...
Therefore , the proposal is very simple – to vote the bill in .
Moreover , we have foreseen a transition period for many norms , up to three years for some .
If someone needs to correct or change something , there will be time for this .
Taking into account the fact that on many points we reached a compromise – not to the detriment of the law , but in order to further stimulate businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think that there will be enough votes .
We had a consolidated unanimous opinion when voting on amendments at the Committee .
I believe that the majority of People 's Deputies are pro-creation , not pro-destruction .
And I am very grateful to all other co-authors , the head and members of the Committee on Transport and Infrastructure , the Ministry of Infrastructure , especially the reform support team , as well as MPs from different parties and committees , all ministries , experts , the EU project `` Promoting transportation development @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the text the bill .
Have any of the foreign players already expressed their readiness to invest ?
They have , yes .
For example , European companies are ready to enter our cabotage services market , work within the country , build and invest .
Ukrainian players are also showing interest , but everyone needs clear rules and confidence in the government 's will to develop the industry .
If the bill is adopted , what further steps should Ukraine take to implement it ?
The Water Transport Bill is the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bill , which we have already registered , is on the creation of the State Fund for Waterways Development , which is a very important component of the first law .
However , since it involves amendments to the Budget Code , this must be a separate document .
In any case , the government is already starting to develop many bylaws , and I think the first batch of them will be adopted starting next year .
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Artem Kovalev, head of the subcommittee on river transport at the Parliament's Transport and Infrastructure Committee, ideologist and co-author of a high-profile bill on inland water transport, which is expected to revolutionize the national transport industry and tabled for a second reading on September 30, told UNIAN about the essence of the major reform and the critical state of the Ukrainian river infrastructure at the moment.
The Verkhovna Rada will soon vote on a new bill on water transport, which you co-authored. What's it about and why is it so significant?
This is a major sectoral bill. Today, it's priority legislation for Ukraine's transport industry.
The bill will cover and regulate all spheres regarding inland water transport: state regulation, functioning, infrastructure, transportation of goods and passengers, navigation and its safety, the liability of shipowners, and so on. Also, it is aimed at the implementation of the basic provisions of eight EU directives and two regulations in the field of water transport in accordance with the Ukraine-EU Association Agreement. In fact, with this bill, we harmonize Ukraine's legislation on water transport with that of the EU.
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How long have you been working on the bill? When did you start?
We started developing it from the very beginning of our work in the Verkhovna Rada of the ninth convocation. That is, from September 2019. Over this period, we've already held more than thirty various events. These were round tables, conferences, and meetings with experts, market players, our Western partners, representatives of relevant committees and ministries, as well as legal experts – all those who are directly or indirectly engaged in water transport issues.
Why else is this law so complex? Well, it's because it lays at the intersection of interests of many industries. It's about transport, shipbuilding, energy, water resources, environmental watchdogs, police, border guards, port workers, farmers, steelmakers – all those who potentially seek to increase the volume of cargo transportation by river... Therefore, we held those meetings in order to take into account all the said interests, but at the same time to make the bill work and be effective in terms of regulating and stimulating the development of inland waterway transport and waterways as such.
How long has the industry been operating without a relevant law in place and why is its adoption so important today?
The issues of inland waterways navigation have never been legally regulated since Ukraine gained independence. Since then, there's been plenty of water under the bridge. The first attempts to pass the bill on inland waterway transport in one form or another came in 2009, that's almost 12 years ago. But due to the confrontation between various groups of influence and the political lobby, the move failed. The entire industry had no law to be governed with. So its absence and lack of government support could not contribute to the river transport development.
Therefore, today we're observing a collapsed river infrastructure, river locks in disrepair, a decrease in annual freight traffic to 12 million tonnes against 60 million tonnes in Soviet times.
Tell us about your work on the project. Whose experience did you study and where did you get insights?
We studied the experience of EU member states, met with our European colleagues. In particular, it was the Netherlands and Germany – both countries with some very developed navigation. For example, in the Netherlands, the seaport of Rotterdam, one of the world's largest, handles 500 million tonnes of cargo per year, while all thirteen Ukrainian seaports combined in 2019 handled only 160 million tonnes.
In the Netherlands, a fairly large share of water transportation is, in fact, private family business, where a family or just a group of people buys a ship by installments and then cargo is delivered from point "A" to point "B". Moreover, everything is very simple there. There's a program that shows ports of departure and ports of delivery to transport a certain cargo...
Just like Uber?
Yes, roughly speaking. Therefore, water logistics in the Netherlands is really streamlined and highly developed.
Obviously, we also have huge opportunities to increase the volume of cargo transportation by water. Our three rivers: the Dnieper, the Danube, and the Pivdennyi Buh are on the list of international waterways. But we still have a number of issues in place that hinder the development of this area, the main of which are the devastated infrastructure and the lack of the required cargo fleet.
Yes, please tell us about the state of our river infrastructure. How bad is it now, and what do you propose to change?
Its state is deplorable. All locks need major repairs. Today their wear is at 75%, and this is not only a matter of river logistics, but also of safety. It is necessary to repair locks throughout the Dnieper cascade and do strategic dredging.
Plus, we have to keep an eye on our information infrastructure – we are talking about modernization of navigation equipment, which, again, is directly related to the safety of navigation.
I'll tell you a showing story, which is both sad and funny. As part of the inspection of the Ukrainian river infrastructure, my Dutch colleagues and I visited the Kyiv lock. There, on the sixth floor of a dilapidated building with obsolete equipment dating back to 1960s, with no elevator available, somewhere near the exit door, a Dutch infrastructure ministry official spotted an old spinning rod with a plastic bottle tied to it. So he asked the senior lady, the gateway operator, what exactly was this rod about. As it turned out, with the help of such an unsophisticated device, the paperwork is delivered from vessels proceeding through the lock! What the operator does is she opens her window on the sixth floor, lowers a bottle tied to the line for the crew to put their paperwork in. So this is how they proceed through!
What is our river transport's potential?
All over the world, shipping by water is the cheapest and most environmentally friendly way of delivering goods.
In Ukraine, only 10% of the 4,000 kilometers of waterways are being used now. Less than 1% of all cargo is transported by river. For comparison, in the EU it's 7%. At the same time, the Danube and the Dnieper are among Europe's five largest rivers.
Compared to other modes of transport, whose throughput is limited, inland waterway transport has an undoubted advantage, namely the possibility of a significant increase in the volume of freight transportation and the possibility of transporting bulky cargoes. The Dnieper, the Danube, and the Dniester are defined by the European agreement the most important inland waterways of international importance.
Having analyzed the current situation, we conclude that the predicted volume of freight transportation along the Dnieper River, subject to the modernization of locks, has the potential to grow to the level of 45 million tonnes annually. This is 30 million tonnes of exports and 15 million tonnes of imports
As you said earlier, the water transport bill is at the intersection of the interests of many industries. Who resists the reform the most?
Most industries and businesses support the bill. But among the opponents are some players who are afraid of losing their monopoly position, while some are simply against clear rules and regulation – they feel comfortable amid the prevailing chaos in the industry.
Companies that are now holding a monopoly position on rivers, considering them their property, are least interested in the adoption of this bill. On the one hand, companies that have built major businesses and still survive in this industry even under the current conditions are doing a great job. But on the other hand, we understand that the absence of a law hinders the development of the entire market. Therefore, we are in favor of giving the opportunity to everyone willing to gain access to infrastructure.
If there is a market in place, accordingly, the cost of services will become competitive. Now the agrarians are forced to first bring their cargo to the silo, then wait until companies who own ships are able to transport it further along the river dictating their prices. What we want is to let these agrarians, roughly speaking, to be able to put their cargo from a grain truck directly to the ship. This will provide opportunities to develop not only to huge silos but also to small ones, as well as streamline logistics and reduce production costs.
What are the arguments of the bill's opponents?
Some argue that the law will kill shipbuilding – which, in fact, we don't have as such. Incidentally, we're also preparing a separate bill to stimulate it... We believe that even those foreign players who will come in if the law is passed, will over time also begin to build at Ukrainian capacities. That's because in our country, in view of the specifics of the locks and the cascade of reservoirs, the vessels, on the one hand, are limited in size, and on the other, they have a special design that allows them to remain stable in reservoirs, where waves could be as high as two meters and more. Therefore, from the point of view of economic effect, if a player comes to our market, being ready to play a long game, it is easier for them to build ships of the Ukrainian "Dnieper" design than to import self-propelled barges from, say, Danube and lose money, since in any case the efficiency and the load on Ukrainian vessels are higher than those on foreign analogs.
Other opponents of the bill argue that it allegedly could harm the environment. However, all over the world, transportation by water is the most environmentally friendly way of delivering goods, and by reorienting cargo from motorways, we will significantly reduce CO2 emissions. Also, by developing river infrastructure and doing dredging works, we will make our rivers clearer.
As for discharges from ships, we laid down in the bill the following norm: if a ship has a certified treatment system, it can discharge purified water into the river. If not, the crew shall only be allowed to discharge in the port for further processing. This is in line with international practice. It is prohibited to dump any contaminated water.
Another bizarre argument of our opponents is that opening up the water freight market for international companies would allegedly threaten national security. It's just ridiculous, nothing but speculation. We're not giving access to our inland waterways to the aggressor state – and this is clearly spelled out in the bill. Moreover, we clearly set out the requirements for the technical condition of vessels to be allowed to operate on our rivers, in order to exclude the possibility of obsolete "fish cans" being brought to our country.
Opponents also voiced a suggestion that with this bill we seek to legalize subsoil theft, that's sand, during dredging. This is also not the case. Over the years of Ukraine's independence, a situation has developed where, under the guise of dredging works, violators extract sand without the relevant permits.
Now dredging is a state function, and accordingly, colossal money is spent on it from the state budget. At the same time, this money is spent extremely inefficiently: for example, a state-owned company spends an average of UAH 150 to raise a cubic meter of soil during dredging, while a private operator is ready to do the same work for UAH 55-60, that's the government's price tag is thrice as high.
With the help of the law, we seek to change the concept of dredging works and apply a formula where, say, the river is divided into sections, and companies, be they public or private, compete at biddings for the right to manage a specific section, where they undertake to maintain the required parameters of the navigable course and guarantee required depths in line with the developed project. This means it will be open biddings where the winner is the one who offers the state the lowest price for their services.
Part of the soil extracted during dredging will be used to strengthen the passage. Also, the company will be able to sell the surplus, having received a special permit from the State Geological Agency, and all volumes sold will be transparent and controlled. And when the state pays the company for its dredging services, this will be the amount contracted at the auction minus proceeds from the surplus soil sold by the company. This concept will save money in dredging works and allow to at least somehow track the soil that's being extracted. Moreover, if the company overdoes or underperforms in dredging, huge fines will ensue, along with contract termination.
We've been hearing these boogeyman stories about the fate of our shipbuilding, discharge, threats to national security, and illegal extraction for 12 years already, while the industry just continued to decline. People can argue for a long time over each letter in the text but I believe that the bill needs to be adopted and that the industry, which is in now a critical state, should be relaunched. After all, if businesses – market participants – face any difficulties, the law can be any time amended. However, the industry needs to work.
Otherwise – we're bound to observe this horrible difference we're seeing now – when the Dutch tell us on our trips about solar-powered ships, while we show them locks in disrepair and "secret technologies" with spinning rods...
Moreover, we have provided for a transition period of three years for many of our initiatives.
What economic effect do you expect to see from the bill's implementation, and when?
The adoption of this law is the start of river transport reform. This is the development of freight and passenger traffic on rivers, guarantees of the proper maintenance of the river infrastructure, guarantees of equal access for all operators. We want to stimulate the creation of an open and competitive water transport market.
If we speak about indicators, this will allow us in the next three-four years to increase freight river transportation to 30 million tonnes per year with a direct economic effect for the state at UAH 13-16 billion (US$460-566 million). In turn, this will allow for the development of related areas and businesses with a direct economic effect of UAH 17-18 billion per year.
The adoption of the bill will create up to 10,000 new jobs in the industry, increase budget revenues. In addition, it will create the necessary conditions for private investment in construction and repair of river ports.
Moreover, the bill will stimulate the development of shipbuilding with the attraction of Ukrainian and foreign investment,
Will the cost of river logistics increase for businesses?
It won't. The bill provides for the abolition of a number of fees for carriers. The following will be canceled: fees for proceeding through locks, fees for special water use (there will be a separate law on amendments to the Tax Code), and fees for opening bridge spans. Moreover, for inland navigation vessels, a number of discounts are provided on port dues in seaports.
Everything you have described will require significant investment in river infrastructure. Where are we supposed to get the money?
For the effective maintenance of river infrastructure, funding should amount to UAH 760 million per year. This amount includes ensuring the functioning of the navigation locks of the Dnieper cascade, works to maintain navigable dimensions on river routes, the functioning of the River Information Service, and navigational and hydrographic support of navigation on river routes.
Due to the systematic underfunding of the industry, a dangerous situation with locks has developed, the strategic river infrastructure has been almost completely ruined, while the length of inland waterways has decreased significantly. For example, this year, UAH 140 million was initially laid down for the repair of locks, but the amount was later reduced to UAH 40 million.
The bill provides for a stable financing mechanism not only for the river infrastructure maintenance, but also for capital investment and modernization.
What's it about?
We want to create a State Fund for Inland Waterways Development. Its ideology is to have payments to the budget made on the river go to river development. Accordingly, the Fund will be filled from three main sources.
First, this is 1% of the excise tax on fuel produced in Ukraine and excise tax on fuel imported into the customs territory of Ukraine. That's approximately how much fuel is currently consumed by river transport of the total volume. It's 1%. So everything is fair.
Secondly, 3% per month from customs payments paid when ships are put into the "temporary import" customs regime. It is paid for ships intended to be operated under a foreign flag on our inland waterways – by the way, this norm additionally protects national shipowners.
And thirdly, it's 45% of the rent for the special use of water for the needs of hydropower generation. This norm will cover part of the cost of maintaining the locks without increasing tariffs for electricity generated by HPPs.
You mentioned the issue of allowing access to Ukrainian inland waters for ships flying a foreign flag. Will Ukrainian ships get access to foreign rivers, too?
Now foreign ships are allowed to enter our inland waterways after receiving a one-time permit. There is a corruption factor here. Ships flying a foreign flag cannot work permanently in cabotage mode, they have to deal with obtaining these permits all the time, and we all know how some permits are issued... With our bill, we want to liberalize the river transport market and open it to all players.
For example, according to EU legislation, only ships flying the flag of EU member states can operate on their inland waterways. Therefore, they are still closed for us. But with our law, we are taking the first step by harmonizing our legislation with that of the EU. As soon as Ukraine joins the EU, ships flying the Ukrainian flag will be able to operate there, too.
Will ships flying Ukrainian and foreign flags operate on equal terms? After all, foreigners will be able to not pay part of the taxes...
Yes, at first glance, it may seem that foreign ship owners will bear a significantly lower fiscal burden and not pay single social contribution, income tax for individuals, military duty, and income tax. But don't forget that the owners of will still bear tax obligations in the country of their vessel's registration.
Moreover, foreign shipowners, unlike Ukrainian ones, must pay a repatriation tax of 6% of the freight and a significantly higher rate for pilotage services to the Ukrainian budget, while the resident charterer pays VAT for foreign ships.
Also, any fiscal advantages are balanced out, given the need for foreigners to pay customs duties for the temporary import of their ships into the customs territory of Ukraine. As I already said, such a fee is 3% per month of the amount of payments for customs clearance of the vessel, while money from those payments are set to be sent to a special fund for the development of Ukraine's inland waterways.
Foreign ships will also pay excise tax on fuel. Such conditions allow Ukrainian ships to remain in an even more advantageous position.
Obviously, the development of water transport will significantly relieve the burden on roads and railways. Accordingly, won't your bill deal a blow to road and rail carriers?
Why are all cargoes most actively transported by road now? Because, on the one hand, buying a truck is much cheaper than buying a barge, building a terminal or a silo. But, on the other hand, we understand that now transport is profitable only for one reason: trucks drive on our roads with significant overload. But if these carriers are forced to ship goods by the rules, profitability of national road transportation will drop dramatically.
Taking into account the fact that the Great Construction Project is currently underway in Ukraine, more weighing stations will appear on our roads, while the fines for truck overload have already increased – we will reach the point where overloading vehicles will become unprofitable. In other words, transporting the same volume of goods will simply require more trucks or shifts. So no one will stand idle, but the river will grab the excess of these cargoes.
On the other hand, by reorienting bulky cargoes to the river, we will significantly relieve our roads. For example, two barges replace 250 trucks. And, as a result, we will save significantly on road repairs – some 1 million tonnes of cargo transported by river will save UAH 1 billion on road repairs over four years.
If we talk about rail transportation, many understand that, on the one hand, tariffs there are now actually understated for certain players. On the other hand, go try, as an outsider, to find free rail cars and locomotives to transport your cargo...
Yes, all cargo owners complain about the lack of locomotives and rail cars in Ukraine ...
… Therefore, I don't think that the development of river transport will deal a blow on other carriers. This will enable businesses to get cheaper logistics. The development of river logistics will also significantly improve the environmental situation.
After the first reading, more than a thousand amendments were made to the text of the bill. Is it because the original text was imperfect, or what?
I would divide the amendments to this bill into three types. The first ones are really the ones that improved the bill or simply had an alternative point of view.
The second group of amendments is purely technical amendments, which sometimes didn't even relate to the nature of the bill.
And the third one is indeed the amendments that the businesses requested in terms of stimulating the development of the industry. These are the amendments proposing either to simplify bureaucratic procedures, or to regulate them, or not to introduce any procedures that would complicate the work during the implementation of the new law.
What changes have you made to the text in-between the two readings?
In April, we passed the bill at first reading, and since then we have substantially revised it, taking into account about 90% of the amendments and comments submitted by businesses, MPs, and ministries.
For example, we have provided free registration of ship's logs instead of having them issued. The procedure for maintaining the register of infrastructure facilities, for its greater transparency, was outlined in accordance with Law On the Licensing System in the Field of Economic Activity. Licensing will remain only for passenger transport and hazardous cargoes. Also, we introduced a special permit for the sale of soil extracted during dredging. We provided for the possibility of discharging wastewater from ships only after treatment and disinfection, excluded the possibility of financing the inland water transport infrastructure at the expense of port dues. River ports will be allowed to provide services to ships with a maximum draft of more than 4.5 meters – but on condition that they've paid the stipulated fees at the nearest seaport. And so on and so forth...
I believe that the final version of the bill is the best version of all previously developed documents.
Does the bill introduce new registers and permits?
The introduction of new registers and procedures in the draft law is due to the need to implement EU directives and regulations in accordance with the Association Agreement. We are not introducing any other kinds of new permits.
In your opinion, will there be enough votes in the session hall to pass the bill?
Between the first and second readings, we did a lot of work. The law is balanced and well-weighed. It is clear that we can try to improve the text for the next 12 years, while the entire industry will have no opportunities to develop, declining even more over the years ... Therefore, the proposal is very simple – to vote the bill in. Moreover, we have foreseen a transition period for many norms, up to three years for some. If someone needs to correct or change something, there will be time for this.
Taking into account the fact that on many points we reached a compromise – not to the detriment of the law, but in order to further stimulate businesses to invest money in this area – I think that there will be enough votes. We had a consolidated unanimous opinion when voting on amendments at the Committee.
I believe that the majority of People's Deputies are pro-creation, not pro-destruction. And I am very grateful to all other co-authors, the head and members of the Committee on Transport and Infrastructure, the Ministry of Infrastructure, especially the reform support team, as well as MPs from different parties and committees, all ministries, experts, the EU project "Promoting transportation development of the Dnieper River" for drafting the text the bill.
Have any of the foreign players already expressed their readiness to invest?
They have, yes. For example, European companies are ready to enter our cabotage services market, work within the country, build and invest. Ukrainian players are also showing interest, but everyone needs clear rules and confidence in the government's will to develop the industry.
If the bill is adopted, what further steps should Ukraine take to implement it?
The Water Transport Bill is the first step in the reform. The second bill, which we have already registered, is on the creation of the State Fund for Waterways Development, which is a very important component of the first law. However, since it involves amendments to the Budget Code, this must be a separate document. In any case, the government is already starting to develop many bylaws, and I think the first batch of them will be adopted starting next year.
Nadiia Burbela


unian--2020-09-30--Trump-Biden debate: Chaos as candidates exchange attacks

Trump invoked Biden 's son Hunter 's work in Ukraine , while Biden called the president `` Putin 's puppy . ''
The first presidential debate in the U.S. between incumbent Donald Trump and his Democratic rival Joe Biden featured a series of bitter exchanges and name-calling , with the president repeatedly speaking over his opponent and the moderator struggling to maintain control .
The president leveled barrages of unfounded accusations against his Democratic rival and his family , invoking his son Hunter Biden 's work in Ukraine and bringing up the younger Biden 's history of drug abuse .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ groups and defended his response to the coronavirus pandemic that has claimed more than 200,000 American lives , trying to portray Biden as a socialist who is n't equipped to occupy the Oval Office , according to the CBS News .
Biden , for his part , tried to direct his answers to the audience watching at home .
He called Mr. Trump `` the worst president America has ever had , '' blaming him for bungling the response to the pandemic and fueling racial divisions amid recent protests against police brutality .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country .
Biden criticized the president over reports that he has referred to military service members as `` losers '' and `` suckers . ''
He referenced his son , Beau Biden , who served in Iraq and died of brain cancer in 2015 .
`` I do n't know Beau , I know Hunter , '' Mr. Trump said , referring to Biden 's other son , whom the president has criticized for his ties to a Ukrainian gas firm .
Read alsoZelensky : Ukraine must n't be dragged into U.S. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ son Hunter had overcome an addiction problem , and said `` I 'm proud of my son . ''
After Biden said China has `` perfected the art of the steal '' under Mr. Trump 's presidency , Mr. Trump found his moment to strike .
The president went after Hunter Biden , the former vice president 's son who sat on the board of a Ukrainian energy company while his father was in office .
Mr. Trump insisted Hunter Biden made millions of dollars , and claimed without evidence that he received @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Biden emphatically insisted his son did not receive millions of dollars from the former Moscow mayor .
A lawyer for Hunter Biden has also denied the claim , saying the younger Biden was not involved in a partnership named as receiving $ 3.5 million in a recent Senate report .
At the Hunter Biden topic , the moderator intervened : `` We ’ ve already been through this .
I think the American people would rather hear about more substantial subjects . ''
Read alsoNYT : Trump paid no income taxes in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2000Mr .
Trump and his allies have long gone after Hunter Biden as a way to attack the former vice president .
The president was impeached for pressuring the president of Ukraine to investigate Hunter Biden 's work in the country .
Biden finally had enough .
`` Will you shut up , man ? ''
an exasperated candidate said .
`` It 's hard to get any word in with this clown . ''
`` His family we could talk about all night , '' Biden said , pointing to the president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ House and on the president 's campaign .

Trump invoked Biden's son Hunter's work in Ukraine, while Biden called the president "Putin's puppy."
The first presidential debate in the U.S. between incumbent Donald Trump and his Democratic rival Joe Biden featured a series of bitter exchanges and name-calling, with the president repeatedly speaking over his opponent and the moderator struggling to maintain control.
The president leveled barrages of unfounded accusations against his Democratic rival and his family, invoking his son Hunter Biden's work in Ukraine and bringing up the younger Biden's history of drug abuse. Mr. Trump declined to condemn white supremacist groups and defended his response to the coronavirus pandemic that has claimed more than 200,000 American lives, trying to portray Biden as a socialist who isn't equipped to occupy the Oval Office, according to the CBS News.
Biden, for his part, tried to direct his answers to the audience watching at home. He called Mr. Trump "the worst president America has ever had," blaming him for bungling the response to the pandemic and fueling racial divisions amid recent protests against police brutality.
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"This is a president who has used everything as a dog whistle to try to generate racist hatred, racist division," Biden said.
Biden argued that the president had weakened the country.
"Under this president, we've become weaker, sicker, poorer, more divided and more violent," Biden said. He also called the president "Putin's puppy," referring to the Russian president.
Biden criticized the president over reports that he has referred to military service members as "losers" and "suckers." He referenced his son, Beau Biden, who served in Iraq and died of brain cancer in 2015.
"I don't know Beau, I know Hunter," Mr. Trump said, referring to Biden's other son, whom the president has criticized for his ties to a Ukrainian gas firm.
Read alsoZelensky: Ukraine mustn't be dragged into U.S. election process over leaksBiden noted that his son Hunter had overcome an addiction problem, and said "I'm proud of my son."
After Biden said China has "perfected the art of the steal" under Mr. Trump's presidency, Mr. Trump found his moment to strike.
The president went after Hunter Biden, the former vice president's son who sat on the board of a Ukrainian energy company while his father was in office. Mr. Trump insisted Hunter Biden made millions of dollars, and claimed without evidence that he received money from the former mayor of Moscow.
Biden emphatically insisted his son did not receive millions of dollars from the former Moscow mayor. A lawyer for Hunter Biden has also denied the claim, saying the younger Biden was not involved in a partnership named as receiving $3.5 million in a recent Senate report.
At the Hunter Biden topic, the moderator intervened: "We’ve already been through this. I think the American people would rather hear about more substantial subjects."
Read alsoNYT: Trump paid no income taxes in 10 out of 15 years beginning in 2000Mr. Trump and his allies have long gone after Hunter Biden as a way to attack the former vice president. The president was impeached for pressuring the president of Ukraine to investigate Hunter Biden's work in the country.
Biden finally had enough. "Will you shut up, man?" an exasperated candidate said. "It's hard to get any word in with this clown."
"His family we could talk about all night," Biden said, pointing to the president's children who work in the White House and on the president's campaign.