unian--2020-02-19--Ukraine's envoy at UNSC: Kremlin continues strategy of escalation in Donbas

The agreements worked out by the Normandy Four leaders in December 2019 are not being implemented .
Permanent Representative to the Permanent Mission of Ukraine to the United Nations , Ambassador Serhiy Kyslytsya says the Kremlin continues a strategy of escalation in Donbas , eastern Ukraine .
`` The Kremlin continues to pursue a strategy of escalation in Donbas in flagrant violation of Russia 's obligations they have undertaken as a party to the Minsk agreements , '' he said at a UN Security Council ( UNSC ) meeting in New York City on February 18 .
`` The attack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] near Zolote , on the fifth anniversary of the Debaltseve tragedy , is particularly cynical , '' he said .
According to him , the Armed Forces of Ukraine properly responded to the offensive launched by the Russian occupation forces , who used weapons prohibited by the Minsk agreements .
`` This was Ukraine 's inherent right of self-defense , '' the diplomat said .
Read alsoU.S .
Ambassador to UN : Russia continues to arm , train , lead , fight alongside its proxy forces in Donbas As Ukraine 's President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provocation `` aims to disrupt the peace process in Donbas , which has begun to advance in small but continuous steps . ''
`` The Ukrainian leadership has confirmed that our commitment to ending this war and to adhering to the reached agreements remains unshaken – as does our resolve to repel any acts of armed aggression against Ukraine , '' Kyslytsya said .
He emphasized that the agreements worked out by the Normandy Four leaders in December 2019 were not being implemented .
`` Over the last two months our positions have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thirteen Ukrainian servicemen have been killed and almost 60 wounded .
Can anyone call this a frozen conflict ?
Or perhaps a low-intensity conflict ?
It is a war .
The only ongoing war in Europe .
A full-scale war unleashed by the Russian Federation , '' he said .
At the UNSC meeting , the diplomat showed a photograph of the Ukrainian soldier killed in the attack on February 18 , 2020 , accusing Russia of being involved in the crime .
He stressed that the Russian Federation , accusing the victim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trying to discredit the memory of those killed during the war in Donbas .
`` Russia tries to present the victim of its aggression as a perpetrator , which is one of the hallmarks of its information war against Ukraine .
[ This is a ] cynical insult to the memory of 22-year-old soldier Maksym [ Khitaylov ] , who was killed today while repelling the offensive of Russian forces near Novotoshkivske , '' he said .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Russian occupying forces on Tuesday , February 18 , morning attacked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements .
Under fire cover , the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance across the contact line .
One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight .
The enemy 's casualties included four killed and six wounded .

The agreements worked out by the Normandy Four leaders in December 2019 are not being implemented.
Permanent Representative to the Permanent Mission of Ukraine to the United Nations, Ambassador Serhiy Kyslytsya says the Kremlin continues a strategy of escalation in Donbas, eastern Ukraine.
"The Kremlin continues to pursue a strategy of escalation in Donbas in flagrant violation of Russia's obligations they have undertaken as a party to the Minsk agreements," he said at a UN Security Council (UNSC) meeting in New York City on February 18.
"The attack perpetrated today [Tuesday, February 18] near Zolote, on the fifth anniversary of the Debaltseve tragedy, is particularly cynical," he said.
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According to him, the Armed Forces of Ukraine properly responded to the offensive launched by the Russian occupation forces, who used weapons prohibited by the Minsk agreements.
"This was Ukraine's inherent right of self-defense," the diplomat said.
Read alsoU.S. Ambassador to UN: Russia continues to arm, train, lead, fight alongside its proxy forces in Donbas
As Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky earlier said, the armed provocation "aims to disrupt the peace process in Donbas, which has begun to advance in small but continuous steps."
"The Ukrainian leadership has confirmed that our commitment to ending this war and to adhering to the reached agreements remains unshaken – as does our resolve to repel any acts of armed aggression against Ukraine," Kyslytsya said.
He emphasized that the agreements worked out by the Normandy Four leaders in December 2019 were not being implemented.
"Over the last two months our positions have been shelled more than 400 times. Thirteen Ukrainian servicemen have been killed and almost 60 wounded. Can anyone call this a frozen conflict? Or perhaps a low-intensity conflict? It is a war. The only ongoing war in Europe. A full-scale war unleashed by the Russian Federation," he said.
At the UNSC meeting, the diplomat showed a photograph of the Ukrainian soldier killed in the attack on February 18, 2020, accusing Russia of being involved in the crime.
He stressed that the Russian Federation, accusing the victim of its aggression, Ukraine, is trying to discredit the memory of those killed during the war in Donbas. "Russia tries to present the victim of its aggression as a perpetrator, which is one of the hallmarks of its information war against Ukraine. [This is a] cynical insult to the memory of 22-year-old soldier Maksym [Khitaylov], who was killed today while repelling the offensive of Russian forces near Novotoshkivske," he said.
Russia tries to present victim of its aggression as a perpetrator, which is one of hallmarks of its information war against Ukraine.
Cynical insult to the memory of 22-year-old soldier Maksym, who was killed today while repelling offensive of Russian forces near Novotoshkivske pic.twitter.com/to5lM9qaZX — UKR Mission to UN (@UKRinUN) February 18, 2020
As UNIAN reported earlier, Russian occupying forces on Tuesday, February 18, morning attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas, using 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements. Under fire cover, the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance across the contact line. One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight. The enemy's casualties included four killed and six wounded.


unian--2020-02-19--U.S. urges Russia to free over 80 Ukrainian political prisoners

The diplomat says U.S. sanctions against Russia over Ukraine will remain in place .
Acting Deputy Permanent Representative at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations , U.S .
Ambassador Cherith Norman Chalet has urged the Russian Federation to immediately free over 80 Ukrainian political prisoners .
`` We condemn the abuses taking place under Russia 's repressive occupation and call on Russia to release the more than 80 Ukrainian political prisoners it is holding , and to end its campaign of intimidation against Crimean Tatars and opponents of the occupation , '' she said at a UN Security Council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 18 .
Read alsoU.S .
Ambassador to UN : Russia continues to arm , train , lead , fight alongside its proxy forces in Donbas The American diplomat assured that the United States would never recognize the annexation of Ukraine 's Crimea by Russia and sanctions against Russia would remain in force .
`` We do not , and will not , recognize the Kremlin 's purported annexation of Crimea .
Our sanctions against Russia will remain in place until Ukraine regains control over its territory .
In the name of international peace @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to respect Ukraine 's sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders , extending to its territorial waters , '' she said .
`` We will never accept anything less than the full restoration of Ukraine 's control over its own territory , whether in eastern Ukraine , Crimea , or its territorial waters , '' she added .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the latest swap of prisoners between Ukraine and Russia-controlled Donbas took place on December 29 , 2019 , when 76 Ukrainians were freed in exchange for 124 people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the `` Donetsk People 's Republic '' ( `` DPR '' ) and the `` Luhansk People 's Republic '' ( `` LPR '' ) .

The diplomat says U.S. sanctions against Russia over Ukraine will remain in place.
Acting Deputy Permanent Representative at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations, U.S. Ambassador Cherith Norman Chalet has urged the Russian Federation to immediately free over 80 Ukrainian political prisoners.
"We condemn the abuses taking place under Russia's repressive occupation and call on Russia to release the more than 80 Ukrainian political prisoners it is holding, and to end its campaign of intimidation against Crimean Tatars and opponents of the occupation," she said at a UN Security Council meeting in New York City on February 18.
Read alsoU.S. Ambassador to UN: Russia continues to arm, train, lead, fight alongside its proxy forces in Donbas
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The American diplomat assured that the United States would never recognize the annexation of Ukraine's Crimea by Russia and sanctions against Russia would remain in force.
"We do not, and will not, recognize the Kremlin's purported annexation of Crimea. Our sanctions against Russia will remain in place until Ukraine regains control over its territory. In the name of international peace and security, we call on Russia to respect Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, extending to its territorial waters," she said.
"We will never accept anything less than the full restoration of Ukraine's control over its own territory, whether in eastern Ukraine, Crimea, or its territorial waters," she added.
As UNIAN reported earlier, the latest swap of prisoners between Ukraine and Russia-controlled Donbas took place on December 29, 2019, when 76 Ukrainians were freed in exchange for 124 people listed by the self-proclaimed Donbas republics, the "Donetsk People's Republic"("DPR") and the "Luhansk People's Republic" ("LPR").


unian--2020-02-19--Crimean journalist Semena moves to mainland Ukraine 'indefinitely' – media

He is expected to arrive in Kyiv on February 19 .
RFE/RL contributor Mykola Semena , who has been convicted of separatism in the Russian-controlled Crimea region , moved to mainland Ukraine on February 18 .
Semena , 69 , is expected to arrive in the Ukrainian capital , Kyiv , on February 19 to receive medical care that he needs to treat a heart condition and damaged spine , RFE/RL said .
The journalist said he was planning to stay in mainland Ukraine `` indefinitely , '' adding : `` As long as part of Ukraine is occupied , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
My family thinks the same . ''
Read alsoRFE/RL : OSCE hopes Crimean journalist Semena 's work will now be 'unhindered' RFE/RL President Jamie Fly said the news of Semena 's `` safety and security is long-awaited and joyous . ''
`` His arrest , almost four years ago , for publishing criticism of Russia 's annexation of Crimea , was always wrong and violated every basic human right and freedom , '' Fly added .
`` I 'm glad Mykola is free and able to resume his writing career for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Semena , who has contributed to RFE/RL 's Krym.Realii ( Crimea Realities ) reporting project , was arrested by Crimea 's Russia-imposed authorities in 2016 and charged with acting against the `` territorial integrity of the Russian Federation . ''
In 2017 , a court handed him a 2 1/2-year suspended sentence and banned him from `` public activity '' for three years .
But a court in Crimea 's capital , Simferopol , last month ruled to prematurely terminate the probation period and expunge his criminal record .
Semena says the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The United States , the European Union , and international media watchdogs have all condemned the trial and verdict .

He is expected to arrive in Kyiv on February 19.
RFE/RL contributor Mykola Semena, who has been convicted of separatism in the Russian-controlled Crimea region, moved to mainland Ukraine on February 18.
Semena, 69, is expected to arrive in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, on February 19 to receive medical care that he needs to treat a heart condition and damaged spine, RFE/RL said.
The journalist said he was planning to stay in mainland Ukraine "indefinitely," adding: "As long as part of Ukraine is occupied, I cannot consider it my home. My family thinks the same."
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Read alsoRFE/RL: OSCE hopes Crimean journalist Semena's work will now be 'unhindered'
RFE/RL President Jamie Fly said the news of Semena's "safety and security is long-awaited and joyous."
"His arrest, almost four years ago, for publishing criticism of Russia's annexation of Crimea, was always wrong and violated every basic human right and freedom," Fly added. "I'm glad Mykola is free and able to resume his writing career for the benefit of the people of Ukraine."
Semena, who has contributed to RFE/RL's Krym.Realii (Crimea Realities) reporting project, was arrested by Crimea's Russia-imposed authorities in 2016 and charged with acting against the "territorial integrity of the Russian Federation."
In 2017, a court handed him a 2 1/2-year suspended sentence and banned him from "public activity" for three years.
But a court in Crimea's capital, Simferopol, last month ruled to prematurely terminate the probation period and expunge his criminal record.
Semena says the accusation against him was politically motivated.
The United States, the European Union, and international media watchdogs have all condemned the trial and verdict.


unian--2020-02-19--U.S. Ambassador to UN: Russia continues to arm, train, lead, fight alongside its proxies in Donbas

The American diplomat says Russian-led forces continue to contravene commitments made by President Putin and Russian officials .
Acting Deputy Permanent Representative at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations , U.S .
Ambassador Cherith Norman Chalet says Russia continues to arm , train , lead , and fight alongside its proxy forces in Donbas , eastern Ukraine .
`` Unfortunately , Russia has not shown a [ … ] willingness to fulfill its commitments under the Minsk agreements .
It continues to arm , train , lead , and fight alongside its proxy forces in eastern Ukraine .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commitments under the Minsk agreements , including to establish an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire , '' she said at a UN Security Council meeting in New York City on February 18 .
Read alsoUN warns about `` real risk of backsliding and further violence '' in Donbas '' In this regard , today 's attack by Russian-led forces near Zolote – which resulted in Ukrainian casualties – comes on the five-year anniversary of Russian-led forces taking the key rail hub of Debaltseve in direct contravention of the terms of the Minsk agreements reached @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as now , Russian-led forces continue to contravene commitments made by President Putin and Russian officials , and to kill Ukrainians on Ukrainian territory , '' she said .
`` Instead of engaging constructively , Russia stalls and disseminates disinformation to distract attention from its central , unmistakable , and unjustifiable role in fomenting this conflict .
Russia also continues its hybrid activities against Ukraine , wielding economic and political leverage , '' she said .
According to her , the resolution to the Donbas conflict must be a diplomatic one , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allies and partners to support Ukraine 's sovereignty and territorial integrity .
`` Through its actions , Ukraine has made clear its commitment to achieving a peaceful resolution of the conflict , '' she said .
`` President Zelensky has energized conflict diplomacy through outreach to Ukrainian citizens in eastern Ukraine , enabled improvements to humanitarian conditions on both sides of the line of contact , negotiated two prisoner exchanges , and established a dialogue with President Putin that yielded the first Normandy Summit meeting since 2016 . ''
Russia must end this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine and Crimea , she said .
`` And we call on Russia to immediately implement its security commitments under the Minsk agreements , as the parties can only move forward with the Minsk political measures when there is security on the ground .
We also call on Russia to follow-through with the measures outlined at the recent Normandy Leaders ' Summit in Paris to immediately stabilize the situation in the conflict area , which includes the opening of new civilian crossing points , disengaging military forces in areas with the greatest humanitarian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' she said .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Russian occupying forces on Tuesday morning attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas , using 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements .
Under fire cover , the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance across the contact line .
One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight .
The enemy 's casualties included four killed and six wounded .

The American diplomat says Russian-led forces continue to contravene commitments made by President Putin and Russian officials.
Acting Deputy Permanent Representative at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations, U.S. Ambassador Cherith Norman Chalet says Russia continues to arm, train, lead, and fight alongside its proxy forces in Donbas, eastern Ukraine.
"Unfortunately, Russia has not shown a […] willingness to fulfill its commitments under the Minsk agreements. It continues to arm, train, lead, and fight alongside its proxy forces in eastern Ukraine. This stands in direct contravention of Russia's commitments under the Minsk agreements, including to establish an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire," she said at a UN Security Council meeting in New York City on February 18.
Read alsoUN warns about "real risk of backsliding and further violence" in Donbas
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"In this regard, today's attack by Russian-led forces near Zolote – which resulted in Ukrainian casualties – comes on the five-year anniversary of Russian-led forces taking the key rail hub of Debaltseve in direct contravention of the terms of the Minsk agreements reached just a week earlier. Then, as now, Russian-led forces continue to contravene commitments made by President Putin and Russian officials, and to kill Ukrainians on Ukrainian territory," she said.
"Instead of engaging constructively, Russia stalls and disseminates disinformation to distract attention from its central, unmistakable, and unjustifiable role in fomenting this conflict. Russia also continues its hybrid activities against Ukraine, wielding economic and political leverage," she said.
According to her, the resolution to the Donbas conflict must be a diplomatic one, and the U.S. will continue to engage with allies and partners to support Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. "Through its actions, Ukraine has made clear its commitment to achieving a peaceful resolution of the conflict," she said. "President Zelensky has energized conflict diplomacy through outreach to Ukrainian citizens in eastern Ukraine, enabled improvements to humanitarian conditions on both sides of the line of contact, negotiated two prisoner exchanges, and established a dialogue with President Putin that yielded the first Normandy Summit meeting since 2016."
Russia must end this conflict by withdrawing its forces from eastern Ukraine and Crimea, she said.
"And we call on Russia to immediately implement its security commitments under the Minsk agreements, as the parties can only move forward with the Minsk political measures when there is security on the ground. We also call on Russia to follow-through with the measures outlined at the recent Normandy Leaders' Summit in Paris to immediately stabilize the situation in the conflict area, which includes the opening of new civilian crossing points, disengaging military forces in areas with the greatest humanitarian significance, and implementing ceasefire support measures," she said.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Russian occupying forces on Tuesday morning attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas, using 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements. Under fire cover, the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance across the contact line. One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight. The enemy's casualties included four killed and six wounded.


unian--2020-02-18--UN warns about "real risk of backsliding and further violence" in Donbas

The UN official says peace in eastern Ukraine can be achieved if there is the sufficient political will .
United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo warns about a `` very real risk of backsliding and further violence '' in Donbas , eastern Ukraine .
`` Today 's disturbing reports of major ceasefire violations across the contact line near Zolote , including alleged use of heavy weapons , are deeply disturbing and a stark reminder that in the absence of sustained political will , there is a very real risk of backsliding and further violence , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Council meeting in New York City on February 18 .
Read alsoBritish Ambassador calls on Russia to use influence over proxies for Minsk implementation According to her , the much-need and long-awaited peace in eastern Ukraine can be achieved if there is the sufficient political will , good faith negotiations and concrete support for efforts to silence the guns .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Russian occupying forces on Tuesday morning attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas , using 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements .
Under fire cover , the Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to advance across the contact line .
One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight .
The enemy 's casualties included four killed and six wounded .

The UN official says peace in eastern Ukraine can be achieved if there is the sufficient political will.
United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo warns about a "very real risk of backsliding and further violence" in Donbas, eastern Ukraine.
"Today's disturbing reports of major ceasefire violations across the contact line near Zolote, including alleged use of heavy weapons, are deeply disturbing and a stark reminder that in the absence of sustained political will, there is a very real risk of backsliding and further violence," she said at a UN Security Council meeting in New York City on February 18.
Read alsoBritish Ambassador calls on Russia to use influence over proxies for Minsk implementation
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According to her, the much-need and long-awaited peace in eastern Ukraine can be achieved if there is the sufficient political will, good faith negotiations and concrete support for efforts to silence the guns.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Russian occupying forces on Tuesday morning attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas, using 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements. Under fire cover, the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance across the contact line. One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight. The enemy's casualties included four killed and six wounded.


unian--2020-02-18--UK Ambassador calls on Russia to use influence over proxies for Minsk implementation

Melinda Simmons is concerned by an attempted offensive by Russia-led forces in Ukraine 's east .
British Ambassador to Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ the Russian Federation to use influence over its proxies to implement Minsk peace agreements on @ @ @ @ @ ] extremely concerned by reports of [ a ] sharp increase in ceasefire violations near @ @ @ @ @ area with heavy weaponry proscribed under Minsk agreements , leading to casualties .
Russia must @ @ @ @ @ to implement Minsk agreements fully , '' she said on Twitter on February 18 .
@ @ @ @ @ to make illegal armed formations in Donbas observe full ceasefire As UNIAN reported earlier , @ @ @ @ @ morning attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas , using 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk @ @ @ @ @ , the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance across the contact @ @ @ @ @ was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight .
The enemy 's casualties @ @ @ @ @ wounded .

Melinda Simmons is concerned by an attempted offensive by Russia-led forces in Ukraine's east.
British Ambassador to Ukraine Melinda Simmons has called on the Russian Federation to use influence over its proxies to implement Minsk peace agreements on Donbas.
"[I] extremely concerned by reports of [a] sharp increase in ceasefire violations near [the] Zolote disengagement area with heavy weaponry proscribed under Minsk agreements, leading to casualties. Russia must use influence over its proxies to implement Minsk agreements fully," she said on Twitter on February 18.
Read alsoEU calls on Russia to make illegal armed formations in Donbas observe full ceasefire
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As UNIAN reported earlier, Russian occupying forces on Tuesday morning attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas, using 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements. Under fire cover, the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance across the contact line.
One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight. The enemy's casualties included four killed and six wounded.


unian--2020-02-18--Ukraine asks OSCE to inform international community about Russia-led forces' attempted offensive

Enemy troops used proscribed weapons , which resulted in the death of one Ukrainian soldier with another five wounded .
Ukraine 's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Vasyl Bodnar has called on the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe ( OSCE ) to inform the international community about a recent attempt by Russian-led forces to advance near the town of Zolote , Luhansk region , in Ukraine 's Donbas .
`` [ I ] called on the OSCE to immediately inform the international community about an attempted Russian offensive in the Zolote area .
[ I ] drew attention @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Russian Federation 's armed forces , '' Bodnar said on Twitter on February 18 .
Read alsoEU calls on Russia to make illegal armed formations in Donbas observe full ceasefire He also informed about his meeting with Chief Monitor of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine Yaşar Halit Çevik over escalation in Donbas .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Russian occupying forces on Tuesday morning attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas , using 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements .
Under fire cover , the Russian invaders began their offensive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contact line .
One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight .
The enemy 's casualties included four killed and six wounded .

Enemy troops used proscribed weapons, which resulted in the death of one Ukrainian soldier with another five wounded.
Ukraine's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Vasyl Bodnar has called on the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) to inform the international community about a recent attempt by Russian-led forces to advance near the town of Zolote, Luhansk region, in Ukraine's Donbas.
"[I] called on the OSCE to immediately inform the international community about an attempted Russian offensive in the Zolote area. [I] drew attention to the use of prohibited weapons by the Russian Federation's armed forces," Bodnar said on Twitter on February 18.
Read alsoEU calls on Russia to make illegal armed formations in Donbas observe full ceasefire
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He also informed about his meeting with Chief Monitor of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine Yaşar Halit Çevik over escalation in Donbas.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Russian occupying forces on Tuesday morning attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas, using 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements. Under fire cover, the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance across the contact line. One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight. The enemy's casualties included four killed and six wounded.


unian--2020-02-18--Putin fires aide Surkov

Putin fires aide Surkov

The respective decree was issued on February 18 .
The respective presidential order dated February 18 , 2020 , is @ @ @ @ @ kremlin.ru .
`` The Executive Order relieves Vladislav Surkov of his duties as Aide to @ @ @ @ @ Federation , '' it says .
This decree shall come into force from the day @ @ @ @ @ Read alsoKremlin introduces Kozak as new supervisor of 'Ukrainian direction' As UNIAN reported , reports @ @ @ @ @ from the post of aide to Putin appeared in January .
Surkov was in charge @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine .
On February 11 , Dmitry Peskov , spokesman for the Russian president , @ @ @ @ @ direction '' and the issue of `` integration '' are supervised by deputy head of @ @ @ @ @ .

The respective decree was issued on February 18.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed his aide Vladislav Surkov.
The respective presidential order dated February 18, 2020, is available on the presidential website kremlin.ru.
"The Executive Order relieves Vladislav Surkov of his duties as Aide to the President of the Russian Federation," it says.
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This decree shall come into force from the day it has been signed.
Read alsoKremlin introduces Kozak as new supervisor of 'Ukrainian direction'
As UNIAN reported, reports about the dismissal of Surkov from the post of aide to Putin appeared in January. Surkov was in charge of Russia's policy on Ukraine.
On February 11, Dmitry Peskov, spokesman for the Russian president, said that the "Ukrainian direction" and the issue of "integration" are supervised by deputy head of the presidential administration Dmitry Kozak.


unian--2020-02-18--EU calls on Russia to make illegal armed formations in Donbas observe full ceasefire

Escalation in the proximity of the Zolote area in Ukraine 's Luhansk region was reported on Tuesday .
The European Union has called on the Russian Federation to use its influence on illegal armed formations in Donbas , eastern Ukraine , to observe a full ceasefire .
`` Reports of this morning on military escalation in the proximity of the Zolote area , w [ ith the ] use of weapons prohibited by the Minsk agreements leading to casualties , are extremely worrying , '' Ambassador of the European Union to Ukraine and Head of the EU Delegation to Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 18 .
`` These offensive attempts by Russia-backed armed formations go completely against the agreed ceasefire that has still not been fully enforced .
Full implementation of the Minsk agreements & the measures agreed in the Normandy Summit in Paris is crucial .
The EU expects Russia to make full & immediate use of its influence on the armed formations it backs in this regard , '' he said .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Russian occupying forces on Tuesday morning attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas , using 120mm mortars proscribed by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance across the contact line .
One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight .
The enemy 's casualties included four killed and six wounded .

Escalation in the proximity of the Zolote area in Ukraine's Luhansk region was reported on Tuesday.
The European Union has called on the Russian Federation to use its influence on illegal armed formations in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, to observe a full ceasefire.
"Reports of this morning on military escalation in the proximity of the Zolote area, w[ith the] use of weapons prohibited by the Minsk agreements leading to casualties, are extremely worrying," Ambassador of the European Union to Ukraine and Head of the EU Delegation to Ukraine Matti Maasikas said on Twitter on February 18.
Read alsoRussia claims not involved in latest Donbas escalation
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"These offensive attempts by Russia-backed armed formations go completely against the agreed ceasefire that has still not been fully enforced. Full implementation of the Minsk agreements & the measures agreed in the Normandy Summit in Paris is crucial. The EU expects Russia to make full & immediate use of its influence on the armed formations it backs in this regard," he said.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Russian occupying forces on Tuesday morning attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas, using 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements. Under fire cover, the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance across the contact line. One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight. The enemy's casualties included four killed and six wounded.


unian--2020-02-18--RFE/RL: Ukraine says it disrupted bot network supported by Russian online services

The operation took place in the capital , Kyiv , and in Kharkiv , Dnipro , Dubno , and Irpin .
Ukraine 's Security Service ( SBU ) on February 17 said it had disrupted a network of `` bot farms '' and seized computer and telecoms equipment that were supported by Russian online services in five Ukrainian cities .
Telecommunication platforms were used to create and promote 8,000 fake social-media accounts and groups that were used to spread `` fake information about the situation in Ukraine , incite protests , scare the public , send notices of bomb threats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ troll the accounts of high-ranking officials , the SBU reported on its website on February 17 , Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty ( RFE/RL ) said .
The operation took place in the capital , Kyiv , and in Kharkiv , Dnipro , Dubno , and Irpin .
Firearms , explosive devices , and narcotics were also distributed using the social-media accounts .
These accounts were registered on the Internet through Russian online services that provided virtual mobile-number services .
Some of the equipment was used to illegally reroute mobile-phone traffic from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that operate in territories that Russia-backed forces control in the eastern part of the country , the SBU said .
While conducting searches in the five cities , the SBU found computer equipment , GSM modems , computer network gateways , and more than 22,000 SIM cards from Ukrainian mobile operators .
The involvement of Russian special services and intelligence bodies in the bot farms is being checked , the SBU said .

The operation took place in the capital, Kyiv, and in Kharkiv, Dnipro, Dubno, and Irpin.
Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) on February 17 said it had disrupted a network of "bot farms" and seized computer and telecoms equipment that were supported by Russian online services in five Ukrainian cities.
Telecommunication platforms were used to create and promote 8,000 fake social-media accounts and groups that were used to spread "fake information about the situation in Ukraine, incite protests, scare the public, send notices of bomb threats at critical infrastructure sites," and troll the accounts of high-ranking officials, the SBU reported on its website on February 17, Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) said.
Read alsoFacebook removes Russian accounts over Ukraine interference
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The operation took place in the capital, Kyiv, and in Kharkiv, Dnipro, Dubno, and Irpin.
Firearms, explosive devices, and narcotics were also distributed using the social-media accounts.
These accounts were registered on the Internet through Russian online services that provided virtual mobile-number services.
Some of the equipment was used to illegally reroute mobile-phone traffic from two "illegally created" mobile carriers that operate in territories that Russia-backed forces control in the eastern part of the country, the SBU said.
While conducting searches in the five cities, the SBU found computer equipment, GSM modems, computer network gateways, and more than 22,000 SIM cards from Ukrainian mobile operators.
The involvement of Russian special services and intelligence bodies in the bot farms is being checked, the SBU said.


unian--2020-02-18--Ukrainian Prosecutor General's Office denies reports about its chief's resignation

The Office said reports about the personnel reshuffle were rumors .
The Prosecutor General 's Office ( PGO ) in @ @ @ @ @ Prosecutor General Ruslan Riaboshapka 's resignation .
`` This is an act of information provocation @ @ @ @ @ PGO 's reform .
This shows that we are not convenient , '' Riaboshapka said @ @ @ @ @ on February 18 .
`` The prosecutor general 's deputies and I are in the @ @ @ @ @ , '' he added .
The PGO said reports about the personnel reshuffle were rumors @ @ @ @ @ outlets reported that Riaboshapka was going to resign after a meeting at the Office of @ @ @ @ @ Bankova Street .
The president allegedly expressed dissatisfaction with the PGO 's performance .

The Office said reports about the personnel reshuffle were rumors.
The Prosecutor General's Office (PGO) in Ukraine has denied reports about Prosecutor General Ruslan Riaboshapka's resignation.
"This is an act of information provocation and another attack on the PGO's reform. This shows that we are not convenient," Riaboshapka said on the PGO's website on February 18.
Read alsoUkraine's prosecutor general fires subordinate who investigated Burisma
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"The prosecutor general's deputies and I are in the office, performing our duties," he added.
The PGO said reports about the personnel reshuffle were rumors.
Earlier, some media outlets reported that Riaboshapka was going to resign after a meeting at the Office of the President of Ukraine on Bankova Street. The president allegedly expressed dissatisfaction with the PGO's performance.


unian--2020-02-18--Chief of staff Yermak: Ukraine wants peace, simultaneously increases spending on army

The Ukrainian army is prepared to repel enemy attacks .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky 's chief of staff Andriy Yermak has said Ukraine wants peace , yet it is simultaneously increasing funding for the army and is actively working to strengthen its defense capabilities .
`` Yes , we want peace , but at the same time we are increasing funding for the army and are actively working to strengthen its defense capabilities , '' Yermak wrote on Facebook on February 18 .
Read alsoDonbas escalation : Russian occupation forces attack Ukrainian troops , try to penetrate line of contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ recent ] developments in the [ country 's ] east .
The president has convened a National Security and Defense Council meeting where decisions have been made on certain measures .
They have just been announced at a [ follow-up ] briefing .
I would like to tell those who are spreading 'treason ' sentiments : yes , there is an ongoing war in our country , it has n't ceased .
The fact that this attack was on the fifth anniversary of the Debaltseve battle was extremely cynical , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the family of the Ukrainian soldier killed in the attack .
`` But that is why we are doing everything possible to make this war end .
Not to have such news in the morning , to let our soldiers return to their families alive , '' he said .
Yermak said Ukraine had chosen the path of negotiations along with `` internal strengthening . ''
`` Our army is ready to respond to such attacks and give a fitting rebuff to the aggressor , '' Yermak added .
As UNIAN reported earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas , using 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements .
Under fire cover , the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance across the contact line .
One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight .
The enemy 's casualties included four killed and six wounded .

The Ukrainian army is prepared to repel enemy attacks.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff Andriy Yermak has said Ukraine wants peace, yet it is simultaneously increasing funding for the army and is actively working to strengthen its defense capabilities.
"Yes, we want peace, but at the same time we are increasing funding for the army and are actively working to strengthen its defense capabilities," Yermak wrote on Facebook on February 18.
Read alsoDonbas escalation: Russian occupation forces attack Ukrainian troops, try to penetrate line of contact (Video)
Видео дня
"As for the [recent] developments in the [country's] east. The president has convened a National Security and Defense Council meeting where decisions have been made on certain measures. They have just been announced at a [follow-up] briefing. I would like to tell those who are spreading 'treason' sentiments: yes, there is an ongoing war in our country, it hasn't ceased. The fact that this attack was on the fifth anniversary of the Debaltseve battle was extremely cynical," he said.
Yermak expressed his condolences to the family of the Ukrainian soldier killed in the attack.
"But that is why we are doing everything possible to make this war end. Not to have such news in the morning, to let our soldiers return to their families alive," he said.
Yermak said Ukraine had chosen the path of negotiations along with "internal strengthening."
"Our army is ready to respond to such attacks and give a fitting rebuff to the aggressor," Yermak added.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Russian occupying forces on Tuesday morning attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas, using 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements. Under fire cover, the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance across the contact line. One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight.
The enemy's casualties included four killed and six wounded.


unian--2020-02-18--Ukraine plans to sell five SOEs within 2020 privatization campaign

The first facility is expected to be sold as early as April .
Head of the State Property Fund ( @ @ @ @ @ Sennichenko says the Fund plans to sell five facilities within a large-scale privatization campaign in @ @ @ @ @ to sell five [ facilities ] , '' Sennichenko said at a roundtable discussion with @ @ @ @ @ February 18 .
So , the SPF plans to sell Kyiv-based Dnipro Hotel in April @ @ @ @ @ Chemical Company in July , the country 's largest chemical giant Odesa Portside Chemical Plant @ @ @ @ @ Hotel in November , and Kharkiv-based Electrotyazhmash Plant in December .
Read alsoUkrainian lawmaker explains @ @ @ @ @ privatized As UNIAN reported earlier , the national budget is expected to receive UAH 12 @ @ @ @ @ million ) from the 2020 campaign .

Ukraine plans to sell five SOEs within 2020 privatization campaign
16:40, 18.02.20 2228
The first facility is expected to be sold as early as April.
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unian--2020-02-18--Vigil for those killed in bloody clashes during Revolution of Dignity held downtown Kyiv

Memorial events have been announced throughout the country .
A vigil for those killed in bloody clashes at the Maidan Square during the Revolution of Dignity in 2014 has been held near the Heavenly Hundred Memorial downtown Kyiv .
Six years ago , during the Revolution of Dignity , a peaceful procession heading to the Verkhovna Rada turned into a bloody confrontation between activists , Berkut riot police troops , and the so-called titushkas ( hired armed thugs ) , according to the Ukrainian TSN TV news service .
Twenty-three protesters we killed and hundreds were injured .
Memorial events @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alsoZelensky : We need real results of investigation into Maidan killings As UNIAN reported earlier , on January 22 , a procession was held downtown Kyiv to commemorate the first killed participants in the Revolution of Dignity , the Heavenly Hundred Heroes , namely Serhiy Nigoyan , Mikhail Zhiznevsky , Roman Senyk , Yuriy Verbytsky and Oleksandr Badera , who died in January six years ago .
On November 21 , 2013 , the third real revolution began in Ukraine .
It lasted 94 days and became the bloodiest one in the history @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million Ukrainians took part in these events .
The first Maidan activist died after being beaten by Berkut officers on December 22 .
Three more died on Hrushevskoho Street in late January .
The bloodiest events unfolded on February 18 and lasted several days .
As of March 2014 , the Heavenly Hundred list of Revolution heroes included 105 people .
A total of 13 law enforcement officers were killed from February 18 to February 20 .

Memorial events have been announced throughout the country.
A vigil for those killed in bloody clashes at the Maidan Square during the Revolution of Dignity in 2014 has been held near the Heavenly Hundred Memorial downtown Kyiv.
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Six years ago, during the Revolution of Dignity, a peaceful procession heading to the Verkhovna Rada turned into a bloody confrontation between activists, Berkut riot police troops, and the so-called titushkas (hired armed thugs), according to the Ukrainian TSN TV news service.
Twenty-three protesters we killed and hundreds were injured. Memorial events are announced throughout the country.
Read alsoZelensky: We need real results of investigation into Maidan killings
As UNIAN reported earlier, on January 22, a procession was held downtown Kyiv to commemorate the first killed participants in the Revolution of Dignity, the Heavenly Hundred Heroes, namely Serhiy Nigoyan, Mikhail Zhiznevsky, Roman Senyk, Yuriy Verbytsky and Oleksandr Badera, who died in January six years ago.
On November 21, 2013, the third real revolution began in Ukraine. It lasted 94 days and became the bloodiest one in the history of independent Ukraine.
Up to 4 million Ukrainians took part in these events.
The first Maidan activist died after being beaten by Berkut officers on December 22. Three more died on Hrushevskoho Street in late January. The bloodiest events unfolded on February 18 and lasted several days. As of March 2014, the Heavenly Hundred list of Revolution heroes included 105 people. A total of 13 law enforcement officers were killed from February 18 to February 20.


unian--2020-02-18--Ukraine updates agri-exports record in 2019, supplies products worth US$22.4 bln

Get a complete information picture of the day by subscribing to UNIAN ’ s news feeds .
For more information @ @ @ @

Ukraine updates agri-exports record in 2019, supplies products worth US$22.4 bln
16:00, 18.02.20 1704
Major consumers of Ukrainian agricultural products last year were China, Egypt, India, Turkey, and the Netherlands.
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unian--2020-02-18--Ukraine, Iceland agree on open skies temporary deal

Ukraine, Iceland agree on open skies temporary deal
15:40, 18.02.20 818
The agreement establishes the absence of any restrictions on the frequency of scheduled flights between Ukraine and Iceland.
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unian--2020-02-18--Zelensky: Provocation in Donbas not to change Ukraine's course toward ending war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says today 's provocation in Donbas will not change the country 's course toward ending the war .
`` I want to tell you we have a powerful Army .
Provocations take place , the Army , correspondingly , delivered a strong response ...
The situation is constantly monitored by our Army , our chief of General Staff .
We are sure this provocation will not change the course – since only having a strong army can we sit at the negotiating table – the course toward the fact that we are moving , confidently approaching @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] toward peace , '' Zelensky told a briefing following a meeting of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine .
The NSDC meeting 's agenda included , among other things , a discussion of `` provocation that took place on the contact line this morning . ''
As UNIAN reported earlier , in the morning Russian occupation forces attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas , employing 120 mm mortars , proscribed by Minsk agreements .
Under fire cover , the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the battle , one Ukrainian soldier was killed and another four were injured .

Zelensky says Ukraine has powerful Army.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says today's provocation in Donbas will not change the country's course toward ending the war.
"I want to tell you we have a powerful Army. Provocations take place, the Army, correspondingly, delivered a strong response... The situation is constantly monitored by our Army, our chief of General Staff. We are sure this provocation will not change the course – since only having a strong army can we sit at the negotiating table – the course toward the fact that we are moving, confidently approaching the end of war, [moving] toward peace," Zelensky told a briefing following a meeting of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine.
Read alsoZelensky: Enemy offensive in Donbas attempt to disrupt peace process
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The NSDC meeting's agenda included, among other things, a discussion of "provocation that took place on the contact line this morning."
As UNIAN reported earlier, in the morning Russian occupation forces attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas, employing 120 mm mortars, proscribed by Minsk agreements. Under fire cover, the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance through the demarcation line. As a result of the battle, one Ukrainian soldier was killed and another four were injured.


unian--2020-02-18--Enemy attack in Zolote, Donbas: farewell to illusions

The morning attempt by the Russian occupation forces to penetrate the fragile line of contact in Donbas is seen as a sort of a `` greeting '' – and a rather expected one , too – to Ukrainians from the neighboring `` fraternal nation '' , which has been desperately trying to rise from its knees , on the occasion of several tragic anniversaries in the modern history of Ukraine .
It 's about massacres in the center of Kyiv during the Revolution of Dignity and the Debaltseve battle : KGB successors love symbolism , so another violent and deadly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diplomatically branded a `` provocation '' , that would match the corresponding dates could well be foreseen .
This is all happening against the background of cheerful reports by European and Ukrainian diplomats following the publication of hardly realistic documents on sites of security conferences with dubious effectiveness .
This morning , the intentions of the `` Russian world '' propagators to remind Ukrainians of the cost of resistance successfully coincided with a good opportunity to show a somewhat euphoric Ukrainian political elite that the `` Ukrainian world '' , which Ukrainian politicians @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be achieved through diplomatic methods , is only possible on Russian conditions .
As soon as Kyiv officials of different levels ( even ministers ) started telling on live TV that the implementation of `` peace plans '' and `` joint patrolling '' following some kind of arrangements reached in Munich would take place in line with Ukrainian law and under Ukrainian government control , the `` greeting '' came from the east .
Among other things , insatiable and blood-thirsty warmongers and death traders with today 's offensive with the use of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the idea of the public dialogue platform `` Donbas Peace '' , dictating the tone and sort of emphasizing the relevance of its presentation ( tentatively scheduled for tomorrow , the day following the attack on Ukrainian troops ) .
However , these things all seem to be obvious .
But , of course , European partners , eager to resume trade with the Russian Empire as soon as possible , will pretend to believe Moscow 's assurances that `` they are not there , '' and that `` they do n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This is also obvious .
Another thing remains unclear – has enough evidence already amassed for the Ukrainian president and his entourage to finally see something in Putin 's eyes anything other than his unbearably bloody desire for peace to stop pretending that anyone can agree on anything with Russia ?
Will the president 's reserves of humor , mentioned by his spokesperson , last long enough to talk about difficult things while Ukrainians are dying on the front lines ?
Both the public and , in fact , Ukrainian authorities urgently @ @ @ @ @ @ @ That 's because if the public might dwell in illusions that complex issues – such as war or economic development – can be resolved by simple solutions , the government has no right to do so .
Bidding farewell to illusions is inevitable , but it may come too late for Ukraine , perhaps so late that the process of bidding this farewell will last longer than the state of Ukraine as such .
Indeed , suggesting that there is still time for trying to play games with an experienced Kremlin cheater would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is an editor-in-chief at UNIAN

The morning attempt by the Russian occupation forces to penetrate the fragile line of contact in Donbas is seen as a sort of a "greeting" – and a rather expected one, too – to Ukrainians from the neighboring "fraternal nation", which has been desperately trying to rise from its knees, on the occasion of several tragic anniversaries in the modern history of Ukraine. It's about massacres in the center of Kyiv during the Revolution of Dignity and the Debaltseve battle: KGB successors love symbolism, so another violent and deadly act, which President Zelensky delicately and diplomatically branded a "provocation", that would match the corresponding dates could well be foreseen. This is all happening against the background of cheerful reports by European and Ukrainian diplomats following the publication of hardly realistic documents on sites of security conferences with dubious effectiveness.
This morning, the intentions of the "Russian world" propagators to remind Ukrainians of the cost of resistance successfully coincided with a good opportunity to show a somewhat euphoric Ukrainian political elite that the "Ukrainian world", which Ukrainian politicians promised their Ukrainian voters when attempted to be achieved through diplomatic methods, is only possible on Russian conditions.
As soon as Kyiv officials of different levels (even ministers) started telling on live TV that the implementation of "peace plans" and "joint patrolling" following some kind of arrangements reached in Munich would take place in line with Ukrainian law and under Ukrainian government control, the "greeting" came from the east.
Видео дня
Among other things, insatiable and blood-thirsty warmongers and death traders with today's offensive with the use of their cannon fodder explicitly showed their attitude to the idea of the public dialogue platform "Donbas Peace", dictating the tone and sort of emphasizing the relevance of its presentation (tentatively scheduled for tomorrow, the day following the attack on Ukrainian troops).
Another thing remains unclear – has enough evidence already amassed for the Ukrainian president and his entourage to finally see something in Putin's eyes anything other than his unbearably bloody desire for peace?
However, these things all seem to be obvious. But, of course, European partners, eager to resume trade with the Russian Empire as soon as possible, will pretend to believe Moscow's assurances that "they are not there," and that "they don't control" the occupied areas of Donbas. This is also obvious. Another thing remains unclear – has enough evidence already amassed for the Ukrainian president and his entourage to finally see something in Putin's eyes anything other than his unbearably bloody desire for peace to stop pretending that anyone can agree on anything with Russia? Will the president's reserves of humor, mentioned by his spokesperson, last long enough to talk about difficult things while Ukrainians are dying on the front lines?
Both the public and, in fact, Ukrainian authorities urgently require intelligible answers to these questions. That's because if the public might dwell in illusions that complex issues – such as war or economic development – can be resolved by simple solutions, the government has no right to do so.
Bidding farewell to illusions is inevitable, but it may come too late for Ukraine, perhaps so late that the process of bidding this farewell will last longer than the state of Ukraine as such. Indeed, suggesting that there is still time for trying to play games with an experienced Kremlin cheater would also be an illusion.
Mykhailo Gannytskyi is an editor-in-chief at UNIAN


unian--2020-02-18--Russia claims not involved in latest Donbas escalation

At the same time , Peskov told journalists the Kremlin was aware of today 's clash `` between the 'Luhansk People 's Republic ' and the Ukrainian Armed Forces '' .
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov claims it would be `` completely wrong '' to raise the issue of Russia 's responsibility for the latest violent escalation in Donbas .
Answering a question of an UNIAN correspondent in Russia on whether the Kremlin intends to admit responsibility for the escalation in Donbas , since Russian leadership constantly declares its `` influence '' on the illegal armed groups fighting Ukrainian forces , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a completely incorrect formulation .
It should n't be seen like this . ''
At the same time , Peskov told journalists the Kremlin was aware of a morning 's clash `` between the 'Luhansk People 's Republic ' and the Ukrainian Armed Forces '' .
Read alsoDonbas escalation : Russian occupation forces attack Ukrainian troops , try to penetrate line of contact ( Video ) '' We do n't have the details of the clash , we do n't know what triggered the clash .
We read there are casualties on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and express our hope that soon we will be able to clarify the details of what happened before going for any conclusions , '' Peskov said .
As UNIAN reported earlier , on Tuesday morning , Russian occupation forces attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas , employing 120 mm mortars , proscribed by Minsk agreements .
Under fire cover , the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance through the demarcation line .
As a result of the battle , one Ukrainian soldier was killed and another four were injured @

At the same time, Peskov told journalists the Kremlin was aware of today's clash "between the 'Luhansk People's Republic' and the Ukrainian Armed Forces".
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov claims it would be "completely wrong" to raise the issue of Russia's responsibility for the latest violent escalation in Donbas.
Answering a question of an UNIAN correspondent in Russia on whether the Kremlin intends to admit responsibility for the escalation in Donbas, since Russian leadership constantly declares its "influence" on the illegal armed groups fighting Ukrainian forces, Peskov said: "No, this is a completely incorrect formulation. It shouldn't be seen like this."
At the same time, Peskov told journalists the Kremlin was aware of a morning's clash "between the 'Luhansk People's Republic' and the Ukrainian Armed Forces".
Видео дня
Read alsoDonbas escalation: Russian occupation forces attack Ukrainian troops, try to penetrate line of contact (Video)
"We don't have the details of the clash, we don't know what triggered the clash. We read there are casualties on both sides, which we find unfortunate and express our hope that soon we will be able to clarify the details of what happened before going for any conclusions," Peskov said.
As UNIAN reported earlier, on Tuesday morning, Russian occupation forces attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas, employing 120 mm mortars, proscribed by Minsk agreements. Under fire cover, the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance through the demarcation line. As a result of the battle, one Ukrainian soldier was killed and another four were injured.


unian--2020-02-19--Iran says Ukrainian plane's black box damaged – media

After being repaired , the black box is to be decoded .
Iran 's Defense Minister Amir Hatami said on Wednesday that the Iranian defense industry has been asked to help repair the seriously damaged black box of the Ukrainian airliner downed near Tehran January 8 .
After being repaired , the black box is to be decoded , Hatami added , according to IRNA news agency .
As UNIAN reported earlier , a Kyiv-bound UIA flight PS752 crashed shortly after takeoff from Tehran 's Imam Khomeini International Airport in the early hours of January 8 .
It was carrying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ board .
Two passengers and the crew members were Ukrainians .
There were also 82 citizens of Iran , 63 citizens of Canada , 10 citizens of Sweden , four citizens of Afghanistan , three citizens of Germany and the United Kingdom each .
There were no survivors .
Read alsoPS752 downing : Ukraine releases intercepted tower communications proving Iran was aware of missile launch all along On January 11 , Iranian President Hassan Rouhani officially admitted that the Ukrainian airliner had been shot down by accident as a result of a `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be held accountable .
On February 2 , intercepted communications between Tehran Airport 's air traffic control tower and the second pilot of Iran 's Aseman Airlines flight at the time of the crash of flight PS752 were released by TSN.Tyzhden .
Tehran blamed the Ukrainian authorities for leaking what it described as confidential evidence , and said it would no longer share investigation materials with Ukraine .
Tehran has not yet handed over the PS752 black boxes to Kyiv , although the Iranian authorities do not have equipment to analyze them @

After being repaired, the black box is to be decoded.
Iran's Defense Minister Amir Hatami said on Wednesday that the Iranian defense industry has been asked to help repair the seriously damaged black box of the Ukrainian airliner downed near Tehran January 8.
After being repaired, the black box is to be decoded, Hatami added, according to IRNA news agency.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Kyiv-bound UIA flight PS752 crashed shortly after takeoff from Tehran's Imam Khomeini International Airport in the early hours of January 8. It was carrying 167 passengers and nine crew members on board. Two passengers and the crew members were Ukrainians. There were also 82 citizens of Iran, 63 citizens of Canada, 10 citizens of Sweden, four citizens of Afghanistan, three citizens of Germany and the United Kingdom each. There were no survivors.
Видео дня
Read alsoPS752 downing: Ukraine releases intercepted tower communications proving Iran was aware of missile launch all along
On January 11, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani officially admitted that the Ukrainian airliner had been shot down by accident as a result of a "human error" and that those responsible would be held accountable.
On February 2, intercepted communications between Tehran Airport's air traffic control tower and the second pilot of Iran's Aseman Airlines flight at the time of the crash of flight PS752 were released by TSN.Tyzhden. Tehran blamed the Ukrainian authorities for leaking what it described as confidential evidence, and said it would no longer share investigation materials with Ukraine.
Tehran has not yet handed over the PS752 black boxes to Kyiv, although the Iranian authorities do not have equipment to analyze them.


unian--2020-02-19--Ukraine's NSDC secretary explains need for joint patrols in Donbas

Danilov says Ukraine authorities will not allow participation in joint patrolling to those who had been killing Ukrainians .
Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council ( NSDC ) of Ukraine Oleksiy Danilov has said border patrolling in Donbas is necessary for local elections to be held there according to Ukrainian law on Ukrainian territory , and for the war to eventually end .
According to him , border guards must control the border , the National Guard of Ukraine must control the adjacent territory , while residents from local communities could take part in joint patrolling .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , according to the Croatian example , could also take part in joint patrolling .
But this does n't mean there will be occupiers [ as part of patrols ] .
We are not talking about those who had taken up weapons , '' he told Ukraine 24 TV channel .
Danilov says Ukraine authorities will not allow participation in joint patrolling to those who had been killing Ukrainians .
Read alsoPrystaiko on joint patrols in Donbas : `` We have n't even come close to this '' '' There are representatives of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
People with Ukrainian registration , who are local , have the right to take part in such patrols .
We will see what kind of person they are , what they were doing during the occupation .
I emphasize once again these ca n't be the people who have been killing Ukrainians , '' he said .
Danilov added the process of joint border patrolling would be carried out in approval with the OSCE or other international organization .
As UNIAN reported on February 15 , President In Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky suggested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , representatives of the occupied territories , and OSCE SMM observers , ensure security in the temporarily occupied territories during preparations for local elections .
Ukrainian authorities earlier said they aimed to hold local elections throughout the country in October 2020 , including the temporarily occupied territories of Donbas and Crimea .

Danilov says Ukraine authorities will not allow participation in joint patrolling to those who had been killing Ukrainians.
Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) of Ukraine Oleksiy Danilov has said border patrolling in Donbas is necessary for local elections to be held there according to Ukrainian law on Ukrainian territory, and for the war to eventually end.
According to him, border guards must control the border, the National Guard of Ukraine must control the adjacent territory, while residents from local communities could take part in joint patrolling.
"There are residents of local communities who, according to the Croatian example, could also take part in joint patrolling. But this doesn't mean there will be occupiers [as part of patrols]. We are not talking about those who had taken up weapons," he told Ukraine 24 TV channel.
Видео дня
Danilov says Ukraine authorities will not allow participation in joint patrolling to those who had been killing Ukrainians.
Read alsoPrystaiko on joint patrols in Donbas: "We haven't even come close to this"
"There are representatives of local communities who live in those territories. People with Ukrainian registration, who are local, have the right to take part in such patrols. We will see what kind of person they are, what they were doing during the occupation. I emphasize once again these can't be the people who have been killing Ukrainians," he said.
Danilov added the process of joint border patrolling would be carried out in approval with the OSCE or other international organization.
As UNIAN reported on February 15, President In Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky suggested that joint patrols, consisting of Ukrainians, representatives of the occupied territories, and OSCE SMM observers, ensure security in the temporarily occupied territories during preparations for local elections.
Ukrainian authorities earlier said they aimed to hold local elections throughout the country in October 2020, including the temporarily occupied territories of Donbas and Crimea.


unian--2020-02-19--Tax overpayments in Ukraine at almost US$1.6 bln as of Jan 1

The Ukrainian national budget 's general fund in 2019 received UAH 457.3 billion ( US $ 18.7 billion ) in tax revenue .
Ukraine 's State Tax Service ( STS ) says tax overpayments to the national budget as of January 1 , 2020 , totaled UAH 38.7 billion ( US $ 1.58 billion ) , which was 4.3 % up from the figure reported as of January 1 , 2019 .
`` Fake information is spreading in social networks , claiming that the 2019 budget implementation by the STS was allegedly possible only due to tax overpayments .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to proper tax administration .
But the amount of overpayments in the last three years has hardly changed , '' the STS wrote on Facebook on February 18 , having posted the relevant infographics .
In particular , tax overpayments stood at UAH 38 billion ( US $ 1.55 billion ) as of January 1 , 2018 , UAH 37.1 billion ( US $ 1.52 billion ) as of January 1 , 2019 , and UAH 38.7 billion ( US $ 1.58 billion ) as of January 1 , 2020 .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the national budget as for revenue has been executed solely due to tax overpayments is false .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the Ukrainian national budget 's general fund in 2019 received UAH 457.3 billion ( US $ 18.7 billion ) in tax revenue , which was UAH 66.7 billion ( US $ 2.7 billion ) , or 17.1 % , up from 2018 .

Tax overpayments in Ukraine at almost US$1.6 bln as of Jan 1
14:00, 19.02.20 1156
The Ukrainian national budget's general fund in 2019 received UAH 457.3 billion (US$18.7 billion) in tax revenue.
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unian--2020-02-19--Ukraine, U.S. to intensify cooperation on counterterrorism

The NSDC secretary has stressed that countering terrorist threats is one of Ukraine 's key tasks .
Oleksiy Danilov , Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine , has agreed with Ambassador Nathan A .
Sales , coordinator for counterterrorism with the U.S. State Department , on enhancing counterterrorism cooperation between the two countries .
Danilov thanked the United States for its continued strong support , according to the NSDC press service , '' We are grateful to the American people for their sincere assistance and support to Ukraine in these difficult times of war with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
The NSDC secretary has stressed that countering terrorist threats is one of Ukraine 's key tasks .
`` We understand how insidious terrorists are , while the fight against terrorism is one of our main challenges .
At the same time , it 's cyberterrorism that comes to the fore today , '' he said .
According to the NSDC secretary , it is necessary to strengthen practical cooperation between Ukraine and the USA , in particular in the issues of information exchange on terrorist threats .
In turn , Sales @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sovereignty and territorial integrity in internationally recognized borders remained unchanged .
He expressed gratitude to Ukraine for its readiness to cooperate with the American side in countering terrorism , and declared his willingness to intensify cooperation with Ukraine in this regard , as well as to render all necessary assistance in developing Ukraine 's capacities to fight terrorism .

The NSDC secretary has stressed that countering terrorist threats is one of Ukraine's key tasks.
Oleksiy Danilov, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, has agreed with Ambassador Nathan A. Sales, coordinator for counterterrorism with the U.S. State Department, on enhancing counterterrorism cooperation between the two countries.
Danilov thanked the United States for its continued strong support, according to the NSDC press service,
"We are grateful to the American people for their sincere assistance and support to Ukraine in these difficult times of war with the Russian aggressor," the NSDC secretary said.
Видео дня
The NSDC secretary has stressed that countering terrorist threats is one of Ukraine's key tasks.
Read alsoUkraine's government approves new quality Ukraine-NATO Annual National Program
"We understand how insidious terrorists are, while the fight against terrorism is one of our main challenges. At the same time, it's cyberterrorism that comes to the fore today," he said.
According to the NSDC secretary, it is necessary to strengthen practical cooperation between Ukraine and the USA, in particular in the issues of information exchange on terrorist threats.
In turn, Sales assured that U.S. support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity in internationally recognized borders remained unchanged. He expressed gratitude to Ukraine for its readiness to cooperate with the American side in countering terrorism, and declared his willingness to intensify cooperation with Ukraine in this regard, as well as to render all necessary assistance in developing Ukraine's capacities to fight terrorism.


unian--2020-02-19--U.S. arrests Mexican spying for Russia

U.S. arrests Mexican spying for Russia

The man had been directed by his handler to take a photo of a license plate of the vehicle owned by a U.S. government official .
A Mexican national has been arrested for acting within the U.S. on behalf of the Russian Government without notifying the Attorney General .
`` Hector Alejandro Cabrera Fuentes , a Mexican citizen residing in Singapore , was arrested based on a Complaint charging him with acting within the United States on behalf of a foreign government ( Russia ) , without notifying the Attorney General , and conspiracy to do the same , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
According to court documents , a Russian government official recruited Fuentes in 2019 and directed Fuentes to rent a specific property in Miami-Dade County , Florida .
The Russian official told Fuentes not to rent the apartment in Fuentes 's own name and not to tell his family about their meetings .
Fuentes traveled to Russia and informed the Russian government official about the arrangements .
The official approved and told Fuentes to see him again on his next trip to Russia .
In February 2020 , Fuentes traveled to Moscow again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
At this meeting , the Russian government official provided Fuentes with a physical description of a U.S. Government source 's vehicle and told Fuentes to locate the car , obtain the source 's vehicle license plate number , and note the physical location of the source 's vehicle .
The Russian official instructed Fuentes to meet the Russian official again in April or May 2020 , to inform him of the results of the search for the source 's vehicle .
Read alsoRussian agents plunge to new ocean depths in Ireland to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , according to court documents , Fuentes traveled to Miami on February13 , 2020 , from Mexico City .
The next day , on February 14 , Fuentes 's rental car drew the attention of a security guard where the U.S. government source resided because it entered its premises by tailgating another vehicle to gain access .
On the evening of February 16 , 2020 , Fuentes and his travel companion arrived at Miami International Airport to leave to United States , on their way to Mexico City .
U.S. Customs and Border @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travel companion and found a close-up image of the license plate of the U.S. Government source 's vehicle in the `` recently deleted folder '' of her phone .
When asked about the photo , Fuentes admitted tasking his travel companion to take the photo of the vehicle 's license plate .
CBP 's review of Fuentes 's phone revealed a WhatsApp message from his travel companion sent to Fuentes with the same photograph of the vehicle license plate .
Fuentes admitted to law enforcement officers that he was directed by a Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ According to court documents , messages on Fuentes 's phone showed that the Russian official initiated and directed the meetings .

The man had been directed by his handler to take a photo of a license plate of the vehicle owned by a U.S. government official.
A Mexican national has been arrested for acting within the U.S. on behalf of the Russian Government without notifying the Attorney General.
"Hector Alejandro Cabrera Fuentes, a Mexican citizen residing in Singapore, was arrested based on a Complaint charging him with acting within the United States on behalf of a foreign government (Russia), without notifying the Attorney General, and conspiracy to do the same," according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
According to court documents, a Russian government official recruited Fuentes in 2019 and directed Fuentes to rent a specific property in Miami-Dade County, Florida. The Russian official told Fuentes not to rent the apartment in Fuentes's own name and not to tell his family about their meetings. Fuentes traveled to Russia and informed the Russian government official about the arrangements. The official approved and told Fuentes to see him again on his next trip to Russia.
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In February 2020, Fuentes traveled to Moscow again and met with the Russian government official. At this meeting, the Russian government official provided Fuentes with a physical description of a U.S. Government source's vehicle and told Fuentes to locate the car, obtain the source's vehicle license plate number, and note the physical location of the source's vehicle. The Russian official instructed Fuentes to meet the Russian official again in April or May 2020, to inform him of the results of the search for the source's vehicle.
Read alsoRussian agents plunge to new ocean depths in Ireland to crack transatlantic cables – The Times
Furthermore, according to court documents, Fuentes traveled to Miami on February13, 2020, from Mexico City. The next day, on February 14, Fuentes's rental car drew the attention of a security guard where the U.S. government source resided because it entered its premises by tailgating another vehicle to gain access.
On the evening of February 16, 2020, Fuentes and his travel companion arrived at Miami International Airport to leave to United States, on their way to Mexico City. U.S. Customs and Border Protection inspected the phone of Fuentes's travel companion and found a close-up image of the license plate of the U.S. Government source's vehicle in the "recently deleted folder" of her phone.
When asked about the photo, Fuentes admitted tasking his travel companion to take the photo of the vehicle's license plate.
CBP's review of Fuentes's phone revealed a WhatsApp message from his travel companion sent to Fuentes with the same photograph of the vehicle license plate. Fuentes admitted to law enforcement officers that he was directed by a Russian government official to conduct this operation. According to court documents, messages on Fuentes's phone showed that the Russian official initiated and directed the meetings.


unian--2020-02-19--OSCE SMM records over 2,300 explosions during yesterday's enemy attack in Donbas

The SMM recorded a marked spike in the number of ceasefire violations in the area .
The OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine has said it recorded over 2,300 explosions during yesterday 's enemy attack in Donbas .
`` In the morning of February 18 , from approximately 05:30 to 11:30 hrs , while on patrol in the area of Zolote ( government-controlled , 60km west of Luhansk ) and at its forward patrol bases in Kadiivka ( formerly Stakhanov , non-government-controlled , 50km west of Luhansk ) and Popasna ( government-controlled , 69km west of Luhansk ) – and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a marked spike in the number of ceasefire violations in the area , including over 2,300 explosions , '' the OSCE SMM said in a spot report on February 18 , 2020 .
`` At about 12:00 , the SMM diverted a long-range unmanned aerial vehicle over the area .
Its footage is currently being analysed , '' reads the report .
Read alsoDonbas escalation : Russian occupation forces attack Ukrainian troops , try to penetrate line of contact ( Video ) It is noted the SMM is following up on the security @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relevant observations will be included in the SMM daily reports , '' the monitors said .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Russian occupying forces on Tuesday morning attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas , using 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements .
Under fire cover , the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance across the contact line .
One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight .
The enemy 's casualties included four killed and six wounded .

The SMM recorded a marked spike in the number of ceasefire violations in the area.
The OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine has said it recorded over 2,300 explosions during yesterday's enemy attack in Donbas.
"In the morning of February 18, from approximately 05:30 to 11:30 hrs, while on patrol in the area of Zolote (government-controlled, 60km west of Luhansk) and at its forward patrol bases in Kadiivka (formerly Stakhanov, non-government-controlled, 50km west of Luhansk) and Popasna (government-controlled, 69km west of Luhansk) – and with its cameras – the SMM recorded a marked spike in the number of ceasefire violations in the area, including over 2,300 explosions," the OSCE SMM said in a spot report on February 18, 2020.
"At about 12:00, the SMM diverted a long-range unmanned aerial vehicle over the area. Its footage is currently being analysed," reads the report.
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Read alsoDonbas escalation: Russian occupation forces attack Ukrainian troops, try to penetrate line of contact (Video)
It is noted the SMM is following up on the security situation in the area.
"All relevant observations will be included in the SMM daily reports," the monitors said.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Russian occupying forces on Tuesday morning attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas, using 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements. Under fire cover, the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance across the contact line. One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight.
The enemy's casualties included four killed and six wounded.


unian--2020-02-19--Ukraine's Defense Ministry explains situation with financing 2020 national missile program

The program concept is currently undergoing formal review .
Ukraine 's Defense Ministry says financing of the 2020 national missile program , in particular , with regard to Neptun [ `` Neptune '' ] cruise missiles , is provided in full , while purchases of the Vilkha-M ( `` Alder '' ) multiple launch rocket systems is scheduled in line with program indicators , that is , within the allocated funds .
`` The Defense Ministry is developing a national program for the development of rocket and missile systems .
The program concept is currently undergoing formal review , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ February 18 , responding to critical comments on the program published in one of the online resources .
Purchases of infantry fighting vehicles in 2020 will be carried out according to commercial offers on imports , taking into account the fact that the armed forces ' arsenal is equipped with pieces of armament of the former USSR .
Read alsoSerhiy Zgurets : Ukraine needs to form a new face of its defense industry , which will be clear to consumers and the Army It is also planned to supply more than 70 unmanned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accordance with the needs identified by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine .
Earlier , journalist Yuriy Butusov said the draft state defense order ( SDO ) for 2020 would eliminate the country 's missile program .
In turn , military expert Serhiy Zgurets noted that the Neptun and Vilha-M missile systems would not be funded via the government procurement program .

Ukraine's Defense Ministry explains situation with financing 2020 national missile program
12:40, 19.02.20 7962
The program concept is currently undergoing formal review.
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unian--2020-02-19--Ukraine says no justification for ex vice-governor of Irkutsk region to "head" occupied Donbas

Kyslytsya spoke about Russia 's direct involvement in the war in Donbas .
Chief of Ukraine 's Permanent Mission to the United Nations , Ambassador Serhiy Kyslytsya has said there is no justification for former vice-governor of Russia 's Irkutsk region to `` head '' occupied Donbas .
`` Whenever reminded of its own Minsk commitments , Russia immediately points finger at Ukraine , saying that it is us who should hold a so-called direct dialogue with the representatives of two so-called 'local authorities ' in the temporarily occupied parts of Donbas .
But what are they ?
How local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 'government of Donetsk ' Vladimir Pashkov ?
The citizen of Russia , born in Siberia , graduated from the Russian Military Pacific Navy School and , until recently , the vice-governor of the Irkutsk region of Russia ? ''
Kyslytsay said at a UN Security Council ( UNSC ) meeting in New York City on February 18 .
Read alsoRussia issues over 200,000 passports to Ukrainians in Donbas – Ukraine 's envoy to UN '' Would you like to know how close is Irkutsk to Donetsk ?
Some insignificant 6,000 km .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Moscow , to rule in Donbas and to be talked to about its future , '' Kyslytsya said .
Earlier , President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky has ruled out the possibility of direct dialogue between the Ukrainian authorities and representatives of occupation administrations in eastern Ukraine 's Donbas .
We are ready for dialogue with the civilian population of these territories , but not with those who have n't been recognized from the international law perspective , and therefore can not represent the local population of Ukraine , '' Zelensky said during @ @ @ @ @

Kyslytsya spoke about Russia's direct involvement in the war in Donbas.
Chief of Ukraine's Permanent Mission to the United Nations, Ambassador Serhiy Kyslytsya has said there is no justification for former vice-governor of Russia's Irkutsk region to "head" occupied Donbas.
"Whenever reminded of its own Minsk commitments, Russia immediately points finger at Ukraine, saying that it is us who should hold a so-called direct dialogue with the representatives of two so-called 'local authorities' in the temporarily occupied parts of Donbas. But what are they? How local is the recently appointed so-called acting head of 'government of Donetsk' Vladimir Pashkov? The citizen of Russia, born in Siberia, graduated from the Russian Military Pacific Navy School and, until recently, the vice-governor of the Irkutsk region of Russia?" Kyslytsay said at a UN Security Council (UNSC) meeting in New York City on February 18.
Read alsoRussia issues over 200,000 passports to Ukrainians in Donbas – Ukraine's envoy to UN
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"Would you like to know how close is Irkutsk to Donetsk? Some insignificant 6,000 km. Still local enough, in the opinion of Moscow, to rule in Donbas and to be talked to about its future," Kyslytsya said.
Earlier, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky has ruled out the possibility of direct dialogue between the Ukrainian authorities and representatives of occupation administrations in eastern Ukraine's Donbas.
We are ready for dialogue with the civilian population of these territories, but not with those who haven't been recognized from the international law perspective, and therefore cannot represent the local population of Ukraine," Zelensky said during the Munich Security Conference.


unian--2020-02-19--Five EU members of UNSC issue statement in support of Ukraine amid Donbas escalation

The countries also condemn the illegal annexation of Crimea .
Five European Union members of the United Nations Security Council have made a statement in support of Ukraine amid the escalation in Donbas .
`` We as the current and previous European Union members of the Security Council – Belgium , Estonia , France , Germany , Poland , fully support the independence , sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders , '' according to a statement , posted by the Permanent Mission of Estonia to the United Nations .
The countries also condemn the illegal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the illegal annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol and the destabilization of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions .
Russian must in particular end its financial and military support to the self-proclaimed People 's Republic of Donetsk and Luhansk , '' it said .
`` Respect for the territorial integrity of UN member states and the prohibition of the use of force and fundamental principles of international law both under the UN Charter as well as under the Helsinki Final Act .
By the use of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Ukraine , Russia is clearly violating the fundamental principles of international law . ''
`` After six years of conflict , the unstable security situation in eastern Ukraine has had an increasingly adverse impact on the civilian population , in particular on the most vulnerable living in the Non-Government Controlled Areas , and along the Line of Contact where people are under continuous threat of shelling .
Some 3.5 million people require humanitarian assistance and protection due to , inter alia widespread mine contamination , escalating psychological trauma and lack of access @ @ @ @ @ @ @ military escalations with fatalities at the line of contact .
We call on the sides for full compliance with the ceasefire and in particular on Russia to use its considerable influence over the armed formations it backs to meet the Minsk commitments in full , '' the statement says .
Read alsoUkraine 's envoy at UNSC : Kremlin continues strategy of escalation in Donbas '' We welcome the Common agreed conclusions of the summit held in Paris on the 9th of December 2019 whereby the member states of the Normandy format reaffirmed that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ basis of their work .
The full implementation of Minsk Agreements by all sides and political dialogue remain the basis for solving the conflict .
In that respect , the commitments under the Minsk agreements have to be fully implemented , beginning with full compliance with the ceasefire in line with the conclusion of the Paris summit , withdrawal of heavy weaponry , and constructive engagement in the Normandy format and the Trilateral contact group .
The obstruction of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission must end , '' reads the statement .
As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Tuesday morning attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas , using 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements .
Under fire cover , the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance across the contact line .
One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight .
Enemy casualties amounted to four killed and six wounded .

The countries also condemn the illegal annexation of Crimea.
Five European Union members of the United Nations Security Council have made a statement in support of Ukraine amid the escalation in Donbas.
"We as the current and previous European Union members of the Security Council – Belgium, Estonia, France, Germany, Poland, fully support the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders," according to a statement, posted by the Permanent Mission of Estonia to the United Nations.
The countries also condemn the illegal annexation of Crimea.
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"We condemn the illegal annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol and the destabilization of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions. Russian must in particular end its financial and military support to the self-proclaimed People's Republic of Donetsk and Luhansk," it said.
"Respect for the territorial integrity of UN member states and the prohibition of the use of force and fundamental principles of international law both under the UN Charter as well as under the Helsinki Final Act. By the use of force against the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, Russia is clearly violating the fundamental principles of international law."
"After six years of conflict, the unstable security situation in eastern Ukraine has had an increasingly adverse impact on the civilian population, in particular on the most vulnerable living in the Non-Government Controlled Areas, and along the Line of Contact where people are under continuous threat of shelling. Some 3.5 million people require humanitarian assistance and protection due to, inter alia widespread mine contamination, escalating psychological trauma and lack of access to basic services. We deplore recent military escalations with fatalities at the line of contact. We call on the sides for full compliance with the ceasefire and in particular on Russia to use its considerable influence over the armed formations it backs to meet the Minsk commitments in full," the statement says.
Read alsoUkraine's envoy at UNSC: Kremlin continues strategy of escalation in Donbas
"We welcome the Common agreed conclusions of the summit held in Paris on the 9th of December 2019 whereby the member states of the Normandy format reaffirmed that the Minsk agreements continue to be the basis of their work. The full implementation of Minsk Agreements by all sides and political dialogue remain the basis for solving the conflict. In that respect, the commitments under the Minsk agreements have to be fully implemented, beginning with full compliance with the ceasefire in line with the conclusion of the Paris summit, withdrawal of heavy weaponry, and constructive engagement in the Normandy format and the Trilateral contact group. The obstruction of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission must end," reads the statement.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Russian occupying forces on Tuesday morning attacked Ukrainian defense positions in Donbas, using 120mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements. Under fire cover, the Russian invaders began their offensive operation and attempted to advance across the contact line. One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another five were wounded amid the fight.
Enemy casualties amounted to four killed and six wounded.


unian--2020-02-19--Ukraine's Finance Ministry borrows US$62.6 mln in bonds on domestic market

No bonds have been placed , denominated in foreign currency .
Ukraine 's Finance Ministry has borrowed UAH 1.529 billion @ @ @ @ @ million , for the national budget at a recent weekly auction to place government domestic @ @ @ @ @ hryvnias were raised through the placement of securities with 140- , 518- , and 1,092-day @ @ @ @ @ weighted average yield of 9.82 % , 9.63 % , and 10.11 % per annum @ @ @ @ @ said on its website .
That is , bonds placement rates rose after a gradual @ @ @ @ @ and the beginning of 2020 .
Read alsoPM Honcharuk : Ukraine to save over UAH @ @ @ @ @ latest eurobond issue No bonds have been placed , denominated in foreign currency , the @ @ @ @ @ reported earlier , the Finance Ministry borrowed UAH 18.6 billion ( US $ 761 million @ @ @ @ @ at weekly bond auctions in January 2020 , while the weighted average yield on government @ @ @ @ @ % .

Ukraine's Finance Ministry borrows US$62.6 mln in bonds on domestic market
11:40, 19.02.20 620
No bonds have been placed, denominated in foreign currency.
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unian--2020-02-19--U.S. slaps sanctions on Russia's Rosneft

Washington accused Rosneft of buying oil from Venezuela in circumvention of U.S. sanctions .
`` Today we sanctioned Russian-owned oil @ @ @ @ @ cutting off Maduro 's main lifeline to evade our sanctions on the Venezuelan oil sector @ @ @ @ @ the corrupt regime and enable its repression of the Venezuelan people will be held accountable @ @ @ @ @ State Mike Pompeo wrote on Twitter on February 18 , 2020 .
It is reported @ @ @ @ @ the announcement of U.S. sanctions .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the United States announced @ @ @ @ @ directly against Rosneft in early February 2020 .
The U.S. State Department accused Rosneft of @ @ @ @ @ spite of U.S. sanctions .

Washington accused Rosneft of buying oil from Venezuela in circumvention of U.S. sanctions.
The United States has sanctioned Russian-owned oil firm Rosneft Trading S.A.
"Today we sanctioned Russian-owned oil firm Rosneft Trading S.A., cutting off Maduro's main lifeline to evade our sanctions on the Venezuelan oil sector. Those who prop up the corrupt regime and enable its repression of the Venezuelan people will be held accountable," U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo wrote on Twitter on February 18, 2020.
It is reported Rosneft stock prices fell after the announcement of U.S. sanctions.
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Today we sanctioned Russian-owned oil firm Rosneft Trading S.A., cutting off Maduro’s main lifeline to evade our sanctions on the Venezuelan oil sector. Those who prop up the corrupt regime and enable its repression of the Venezuelan people will be held accountable. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) February 18, 2020
As UNIAN reported earlier, the United States announced its intention to impose sanctions directly against Rosneft in early February 2020. The U.S. State Department accused Rosneft of buying oil from Venezuela in spite of U.S. sanctions.


unian--2020-02-19--NBU strengthens official hryvnia to UAH 24.44 to U.S. dollar on Feb 19

The official forex rate against the euro for Wednesday is fixed at UAH 26.43 per euro .
The National Bank @ @ @ @ @ on February 18 set the official forex rate at UAH 24.44 to the U.S. dollar @ @ @ @ @ 's national currency stronger by one kopiyka .
The Central Bank fixed the following official @ @ @ @ @ against key foreign currencies for February 19 : US $ 100 will be traded for @ @ @ @ @ as of February 17 ) ; EUR 100 will be traded for UAH 2,642.91 ( @ @ @ @ @ 17 ) .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the Ukrainian hryvnia in January 2020 weakened @ @ @ @ @ U.S. dollar , to UAH 25.03 per U.S. dollar and by 4.7 % against the @ @ @ @ @ per euro .
In 2019 , Ukraine 's national currency strengthened by 14.5 % against @ @ @ @ @ UAH 23.69 and by 16.7 % against the euro , to UAH 26.42 .
The @ @ @ @ @ the U.S. dollar was registered at UAH 30.01 in February 2015 .

NBU strengthens official hryvnia to UAH 24.44 to U.S. dollar on Feb 19
11:00, 19.02.20 2182
The official forex rate against the euro for Wednesday is fixed at UAH 26.43 per euro.
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