unian--2020-04-01--Ukraine could receive from IMF first loan tranche worth $4 bln right after fulfilling conditions – M

Funds will be allocated for the budget 's stabilization fund , set up to combat coronavirus .
Ukraine is expected to receive the first tranche of a new loan from the International Monetary Fund ( IMF ) in the amount of about $ 4 billion immediately after the adoption of the law on banking regulation , which passed its first reading this week , says Daniil Hetmantsev , head of the parliamentary Committee on Finance , Tax and Customs Policy .
`` We have already received an official letter , a statement from the IMF , that there are these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ market and banking regulation ] , that if they are met , the funds will immediately flow to Ukraine , right to the state budget .
According to our estimates , this should be a loan of about $ 4 billion- not aid but namely a loan , '' Hetmantsev told Radio NV .
The MP adds that Ukraine is interested in getting a fairly cheap financial instrument from the Fund in such a crisis period , which will be sent to the national budget 's stabilization fund , set up to tackle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on March 31 , the Verkhovna Rada adopted a law on farmland turnover and approved at first reading a bill on banking regulation .
As President Volodymyr Zelensky said on March 27 , the authorities agreed with the IMF leadership that after parliament passed laws on banking regulation and the launch of the land market , Ukraine would receive the first tranche of $ 1.75-2 billion from the Fund within about 15 days .
UNIAN memo .
Ukraine and the IMF in December 2019 reached a staff-level agreement on a new three-year program @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of $ 5.5 billion .
The decision on the new program is yet to be approved by the IMF Executive Board but the exact date for the meeting has not been determined .
In early March , the IMF announced that the Fund was providing about $ 50 billion in rapid financing for low-income and developing economies to overcome the negative consequences of the coronavirus epidemic , and subsequently the Fund announced readiness to mobilize a loan potential worth $ 1 trillion to help member states .

Ukraine could receive from IMF first loan tranche worth $4 bln right after fulfilling conditions – MP
11:00, 01.04.20 4463
Funds will be allocated for the budget's stabilization fund, set up to combat coronavirus.
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unian--2020-04-01--Number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Ukraine rises to 669 by Wednesday morning

A total of 120 new cases have been recorded over the past day .
The number of confirmed cases of @ @ @ @ @ had risen to 669 by Wednesday morning .
`` As of 10:00 Kyiv time on @ @ @ @ @ 669 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ukraine , including 17 deaths , while 10 patients @ @ @ @ @ from hospital , '' Ukraine 's Health Ministry said on Facebook .
Read alsoChartered flights @ @ @ @ @ unless all passengers sign observation consent – interior minister A total of 120 new cases @ @ @ @ @ past day .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the number of confirmed cases of the @ @ @ @ @ risen to 645 by Tuesday evening .

A total of 120 new cases have been recorded over the past day.
The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in Ukraine had risen to 669 by Wednesday morning.
"As of 10:00 Kyiv time on April 1, there were 669 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ukraine, including 17 deaths, while 10 patients have recovered and been discharged from hospital," Ukraine's Health Ministry said on Facebook.
Read alsoChartered flights evacuating Ukrainians to be banned unless all passengers sign observation consent – interior minister
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A total of 120 new cases have been recorded over the past day.
As UNIAN reported earlier, the number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in Ukraine had risen to 645 by Tuesday evening.


unian--2020-04-01--Ukraine's official hryvnia continues strengthening, set at UAH 27.63 to U.S. dollar on April 1

The official forex rate against the euro for Wednesday is fixed at UAH 30.26 per euro .
The National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) on March 31 set the official forex rate for April 1 at UAH 27.63 to the U.S. dollar , which let the country 's national currency strengthen by 43 kopiykas .
The hryvnia became stronger after it had gained 12 kopiykas in value against U.S. dollar on Tuesday , March 31 , according to the NBU website .
The official forex rate against the euro for Wednesday is fixed at UAH 30.26 per euro – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since Tuesday .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the National Bank bought US $ 64 million on the interbank foreign exchange market on March 31 .
Positive news from the Verkhovna Rada , Ukraine 's parliament , which passed certain bills bringing Ukraine closer to the new program with the International Monetary Fund , probably encouraged the forex market .
So , the supply of currency from the businesses exceeded demand , while the hryvnia strengthened to UAH 27.6 per dollar .
According to the NBU , its interventions have become positive for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the booming demand for foreign currency over the coronavirus outbreak .

Ukraine's official hryvnia continues strengthening, set at UAH 27.63 to U.S. dollar on April 1
10:20, 01.04.20 5686
The official forex rate against the euro for Wednesday is fixed at UAH 30.26 per euro.
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unian--2020-04-01--Public health vs personal digital privacy amid Covid-19 spread

As the world turns to technology to track and contain the COVID-19 pandemic , could this spell the end of digital privacy rights ?
Health organizations and governments all over the world are using technology to communicate , track , monitor and predict the spread of COVID-19 .
There are likely to be very few people who would object to the use of technology to track an infected person to ensure they maintain quarantine ; I may even advocate such use , ESET reported .
However , unprecedented times should not result in any long-term removal of our privacy rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been rushed through to allow the fulfillment of medically urgent needs for data collection or use , the report reads .
In some instances , data is being extracted from smartphones on an individual basis or en masse .
In the current age of COVID-19 concern , data potentially relevant to tracking the disease is being gathered , or there are proposals to gather it , via several mechanisms .
Custom apps developed to enable communication between health care professionals and patients , to keep people informed with official communications and to provide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in close proximity to someone testing positive .
There are other use cases mentioned below .
Mobile phone companies are being asked , or already have , subscribers ' geotracking data , or already have , allowing the modeling of infection predictions based on actual phone subscribers ’ movements .
Popular social media apps also track location , unless the member has elected not to share location data .
There are stories circulating in the media that some governments have approached the leaders of social media companies to explore the opportunity of using @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is effective .
At the start of the outbreak in China , the authorities there required citizens in Wuhan to provide personal information so that device tracking could be linked to individuals .
The Guardian then reported that Taiwan used phone tracking to enforce self-quarantine , citing an example of automated text messages being sent when a quarantine-mandated individual left a geofenced perimeter .
Singapore 's ministry of health made victims ' personal information publicly available , which allowed developers to create maps and show locations , raising security fears for those concerned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ authorities there have also released an app called TraceTogether that identifies , using Bluetooth , if you have been in close proximity to a coronavirus patient .
In Germany , UK , Austria , Belgium , Italy and South Korea , mobile operators have been reported to be sharing aggregated or anonymized location data with health authorities .
In South Korea , data was also shared by credit-card companies .
The European countries where personal data is protected by the General Data Protection Regulation are using an option to suspend the regulation in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 9 of the GDPR allows for processing of health and other usually sacrosanct data when necessary for reasons of public interest in the area of public health , such as protecting against serious cross-border threats to health .
Despite the exceptions in regulations being used to share data with health and government authorities , the regulations that cover the protection of data should be adhered to .
For example , the GDPR states that data must be encrypted when at rest and in transit , and these requirements are still mandatory .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowing citizens to be tracked by monitoring mobile phones .
In contrast , Hong Kong tagged new arrivals to the region using wrist bands that log and transmit location data to authorities , maintaining the privacy of the individual ’ s phone .
An intriguing use of an app has been by the Polish authorities , requiring a quarantined individual to have an app released by the Ministry of Digital Affairs and for them to send a selfie with geo-metadata on a regular basis to prove compliance .
Several countries have passed emergency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data to combat the spread of the virus .
For example , Italy lifted a restriction on the sharing of personal data when doing so was necessary for the performance of civil protection functions .
Read alsoCoronavirus greatest test since World War Two , says UN chief – BBC A few countries , including Russia and China , are using facial recognition technology to ensure that those identified as infected observe quarantine rules .
The systems are collecting video through CCTV , drones and other camera-based systems .
Many of these initiatives demonstrate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and are in use , with governments , health professionals , technology and phone companies working together to combat the medical emergency facing the world .
At the same time , privacy advocates are also being vocal about these issues .
The BBC reports that in the UK a group identified as `` responsible technologists '' has urged for open disclosure of the UK government 's plans to collect personal data through an app being created to tackle COVID-19 .
ESET is a Slovak internet security company founded in 1992 , now represented @ @ @ @ @

As the world turns to technology to track and contain the COVID-19 pandemic, could this spell the end of digital privacy rights?
Health organizations and governments all over the world are using technology to communicate, track, monitor and predict the spread of COVID-19.
There are likely to be very few people who would object to the use of technology to track an infected person to ensure they maintain quarantine; I may even advocate such use, ESET reported.
However, unprecedented times should not result in any long-term removal of our privacy rights, especially in cases where legislation has been rushed through to allow the fulfillment of medically urgent needs for data collection or use, the report reads.
Видео дня
In some instances, data is being extracted from smartphones on an individual basis or en masse. In the current age of COVID-19 concern, data potentially relevant to tracking the disease is being gathered, or there are proposals to gather it, via several mechanisms.
Custom apps developed to enable communication between health care professionals and patients, to keep people informed with official communications and to provide a warning if an individual has been in close proximity to someone testing positive. There are other use cases mentioned below.
Mobile phone companies are being asked, or already have, subscribers' geotracking data, or already have, allowing the modeling of infection predictions based on actual phone subscribers’ movements.
Popular social media apps also track location, unless the member has elected not to share location data. There are stories circulating in the media that some governments have approached the leaders of social media companies to explore the opportunity of using their data to see if social distancing is effective.
Read alsoCOVID-19: Fears about plausibility of Russian stats
At the start of the outbreak in China, the authorities there required citizens in Wuhan to provide personal information so that device tracking could be linked to individuals. The Guardian then reported that Taiwan used phone tracking to enforce self-quarantine, citing an example of automated text messages being sent when a quarantine-mandated individual left a geofenced perimeter.
Singapore's ministry of health made victims' personal information publicly available, which allowed developers to create maps and show locations, raising security fears for those concerned. In the last few days the authorities there have also released an app called TraceTogether that identifies, using Bluetooth, if you have been in close proximity to a coronavirus patient.
In Germany, UK, Austria, Belgium, Italy and South Korea, mobile operators have been reported to be sharing aggregated or anonymized location data with health authorities. In South Korea, data was also shared by credit-card companies. The European countries where personal data is protected by the General Data Protection Regulation are using an option to suspend the regulation in face of a civil crisis. Article 9 of the GDPR allows for processing of health and other usually sacrosanct data when necessary for reasons of public interest in the area of public health, such as protecting against serious cross-border threats to health.
Despite the exceptions in regulations being used to share data with health and government authorities, the regulations that cover the protection of data should be adhered to. For example, the GDPR states that data must be encrypted when at rest and in transit, and these requirements are still mandatory.
In Israel, authorities approved new surveillance measures allowing citizens to be tracked by monitoring mobile phones. In contrast, Hong Kong tagged new arrivals to the region using wrist bands that log and transmit location data to authorities, maintaining the privacy of the individual’s phone.
An intriguing use of an app has been by the Polish authorities, requiring a quarantined individual to have an app released by the Ministry of Digital Affairs and for them to send a selfie with geo-metadata on a regular basis to prove compliance.
Several countries have passed emergency legislation to permit the use of personal data to combat the spread of the virus. For example, Italy lifted a restriction on the sharing of personal data when doing so was necessary for the performance of civil protection functions.
Read alsoCoronavirus greatest test since World War Two, says UN chief – BBC
A few countries, including Russia and China, are using facial recognition technology to ensure that those identified as infected observe quarantine rules. The systems are collecting video through CCTV, drones and other camera-based systems.
Many of these initiatives demonstrate that innovative methods are being explored, and are in use, with governments, health professionals, technology and phone companies working together to combat the medical emergency facing the world. At the same time, privacy advocates are also being vocal about these issues. The BBC reports that in the UK a group identified as "responsible technologists" has urged for open disclosure of the UK government's plans to collect personal data through an app being created to tackle COVID-19.
ESET is a Slovak internet security company founded in 1992, now represented in 180 countries worldwide.


unian--2020-04-01--Coronavirus greatest test since World War Two, says UN chief – BBC

It could bring a recession `` that probably has no parallel in the recent past '' .
The current coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ for the world since World War Two , UN Secretary General António Guterres has warned @ @ @ @ @ bring a recession `` that probably has no parallel in the recent past '' , @ @ @ @ @ Guterres was speaking at the launch of a UN report on the potential socioeconomic impact @ @ @ @ @ number of confirmed cases around the world is now nearing 860,000 , with more than @ @ @ @ @ of cases reported in Ukraine raised to 645 , with 17 lethal ones and 10 @ @ @ @

It could bring a recession "that probably has no parallel in the recent past".
The current coronavirus outbreak is the biggest challenge for the world since World War Two, UN Secretary General António Guterres has warned.
He said it could bring a recession "that probably has no parallel in the recent past", the BBC reports.
Mr Guterres was speaking at the launch of a UN report on the potential socioeconomic impact of the outbreak.
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Read alsoCOVID-19: Fears about plausibility of Russian stats
The number of confirmed cases around the world is now nearing 860,000, with more than 42,000 deaths.
The number of cases reported in Ukraine raised to 645, with 17 lethal ones and 10 recoveries so far.


unian--2020-04-01--Ukraine reports one KIA, three WIAs amid 14 enemy attacks in Donbas on March 31

The enemy engaged Ukrainian troops with proscribed 120mm and 82mm mortars , anti-tank missile systems , grenade launchers of various types , heavy machine guns , and rifles .
Russia 's hybrid military forces on March 31 mounted 14 attacks on Ukrainian Army positions in Donbas , eastern Ukraine , with one Ukrainian soldier reported as killed in action ( KIA ) and another three as wounded in action ( WIA ) .
`` The armed forces of the Russian Federation violated the ceasefire 14 times on March 31 .
One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another two were wounded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Another member of the Joint Forces was injured while stepping on a Russian-made landmine , '' the press center of Ukraine 's Joint Forces Operation Headquarters said in an update posted on Facebook as of 07:00 Kyiv time on April 1 .
The enemy engaged Ukrainian troops with proscribed 120mm and 82mm mortars , anti-tank missile systems , grenade launchers of various types , heavy machine guns , and rifles .
Under attack came Ukrainian positions near the towns of Krasnohorivka and Avdiyivka , and the villages of Pisky , Shyrokyne , Hnutove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Luhanske , and Zaitseve .
According to intelligence data , on March 31 , thanks to the decisive response of the Joint Forces , three Russian occupiers were killed and another one was wounded .
Ukrainian troops also destroyed an enemy infantry fighting vehicle .
`` Since Wednesday midnight , Russia-led forces have attacked Ukrainian positions near the town of Maryinka , using tripod-mounted man-portable antitank guns , '' the update said .
No casualties were reported in Ukrainian Army ranks on Wednesday morning .

The enemy engaged Ukrainian troops with proscribed 120mm and 82mm mortars, anti-tank missile systems, grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and rifles.
Russia's hybrid military forces on March 31 mounted 14 attacks on Ukrainian Army positions in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, with one Ukrainian soldier reported as killed in action (KIA) and another three as wounded in action (WIA).
"The armed forces of the Russian Federation violated the ceasefire 14 times on March 31. One Ukrainian soldier was killed and another two were wounded as a result of enemy shelling. Another member of the Joint Forces was injured while stepping on a Russian-made landmine," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation Headquarters said in an update posted on Facebook as of 07:00 Kyiv time on April 1.
Read alsoGerman, French foreign ministers claim Donbas terrorists make coronavirus pretext for hindering OSCE access
Видео дня
The enemy engaged Ukrainian troops with proscribed 120mm and 82mm mortars, anti-tank missile systems, grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and rifles.
Under attack came Ukrainian positions near the towns of Krasnohorivka and Avdiyivka, and the villages of Pisky, Shyrokyne, Hnutove, Kamianka, Starohnativka, Novotoshkivske, Luhanske, and Zaitseve.
According to intelligence data, on March 31, thanks to the decisive response of the Joint Forces, three Russian occupiers were killed and another one was wounded. Ukrainian troops also destroyed an enemy infantry fighting vehicle.
"Since Wednesday midnight, Russia-led forces have attacked Ukrainian positions near the town of Maryinka, using tripod-mounted man-portable antitank guns," the update said.
No casualties were reported in Ukrainian Army ranks on Wednesday morning.


unian--2020-04-01--Chartered flights evacuating Ukrainians to be banned unless all passengers sign observation consent

Chartered flights evacuating Ukrainians to be banned unless all passengers sign observation consent – interior minister

Citizens who breach observation rules after returning on board such flights will face fines and even criminal liability – in case they test positive for Covid-19 .
The Ministry of Internal Affairs will no longer approve the deployment of chartered flights to evacuate Ukrainians who got stuck in other countries amid the coronavirus epidemic , Interior Minister Arsen Avakov says .
Exceptions will be made if all passengers agree to undergo coronavirus tests and an observation upon their return , the minister wrote on Facebook .
`` The Ministry of Internal Affairs will no longer approve chartered flights .
Passenger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Exceptions will be rare and only by a separate decision – with an observation for 100 % of the passengers under the supervision of a sanitary doctors followed by a PCR test , '' Avakov wrote .
The minister recalled recent flights that arrived from Vietnam and Qatar , where part of the passengers refused to be taken for observation and even broke exit doors at the Boryspil Airport .
Read alsoInterior Minister Avakov does n't rule out quarantine in Ukraine may last until mid-May The Minister said , in particular , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Qatar had left Ukraine already after President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the nation about the introduction of quarantine .
`` On March 13 , President Zelensky addressed Ukrainians to return to the country in connection with the impending epidemic ... and when I checked , it appeared that every third passenger who returned yesterday on that infamous flight , specifically booked for them ... had flown off to Bali .
It was on March 13 , 14 , 15 , '' Avakov said .
Also , the minister noted that those citizens who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be fined , while those who would test positive for Covid-19 would face criminal liability .

Citizens who breach observation rules after returning on board such flights will face fines and even criminal liability – in case they test positive for Covid-19.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs will no longer approve the deployment of chartered flights to evacuate Ukrainians who got stuck in other countries amid the coronavirus epidemic, Interior Minister Arsen Avakov says.
Exceptions will be made if all passengers agree to undergo coronavirus tests and an observation upon their return, the minister wrote on Facebook.
"The Ministry of Internal Affairs will no longer approve chartered flights. Passenger air travel has been shut down. Exceptions will be rare and only by a separate decision – with an observation for 100% of the passengers under the supervision of a sanitary doctors followed by a PCR test," Avakov wrote.
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The minister recalled recent flights that arrived from Vietnam and Qatar, where part of the passengers refused to be taken for observation and even broke exit doors at the Boryspil Airport.
Read alsoInterior Minister Avakov doesn't rule out quarantine in Ukraine may last until mid-May
The Minister said, in particular, that the majority of passengers on the flight from Qatar had left Ukraine already after President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the nation about the introduction of quarantine.
"On March 13, President Zelensky addressed Ukrainians to return to the country in connection with the impending epidemic ... and when I checked, it appeared that every third passenger who returned yesterday on that infamous flight, specifically booked for them... had flown off to Bali. It was on March 13, 14, 15," Avakov said.
Also, the minister noted that those citizens who had escaped from the observation location would be fined, while those who would test positive for Covid-19 would face criminal liability.


unian--2020-04-01--Eyewitnesses in Rostov: Russian authorities pulling armored carriers with troops in the city

It is not known why so many military vehicles have been brought to Rostov-on-Don .
The Russian authorities have been @ @ @ @ @ towards the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don .
Eyewitnesses posted their videos ( 18+ ) on @ @ @ @ @ .
`` One can see long convoys of armored personnel carriers with the military of @ @ @ @ @ the streets of the city , being accompanied by police cars , '' the nv.ua @ @ @ @ @ you say it 's 'calm and quiet ' – look at this show .
Why @ @ @ @ @ this – I do n't get it .
Is this the beginning of war , @ @ @ @ @ of the users says in a video comment .
Another user suggested that the authorities @ @ @ @ @ `` defense emergency '' and `` city lockdown . ''
Yet , it is not @ @ @ @ @ vehicles have been brought to Rostov-on-Don , the portal said .

It is not known why so many military vehicles have been brought to Rostov-on-Don.
The Russian authorities have been pulling in armored personnel carriers towards the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don.
Eyewitnesses posted their videos (18+) on social networks on March 30.
"One can see long convoys of armored personnel carriers with the military of the Russian Federation moving through the streets of the city, being accompanied by police cars," the nv.ua portal reported.
Видео дня
"And you say it's 'calm and quiet' – look at this show. Why the heck we need all this – I don't get it. Is this the beginning of war, or what?" one of the users says in a video comment.
У нас в Ростове-на-Дону тоже перемещение военных.Что происходит? pic.twitter.com/6pd5UOOBEo — SERGEY🌏🏴 (@JNRAzv23KcSmY1k) March 30, 2020
Another user suggested that the authorities had decided to introduce a "defense emergency" and "city lockdown."
Yet, it is not known why so many military vehicles have been brought to Rostov-on-Don, the portal said.


unian--2020-04-02--U.S. committed to Ukraine and Georgia to become future members of NATO

The United States is committed that Ukraine and Georgia to become the future members of NATO .
`` We are committed to all of those countries to become the future members of NATO .
We want all of them , '' Kay Bailey Hutchison , U.S .
Permanent Representative to NATO , said during a LiveAtState briefing on April 1 , 2020 , when asked what the enlargement of the Alliance after North Macedonia became its 30th member means for aspirant countries like Georgia , Ukraine , and Bosnia and Herzegovina .
Read alsoNATO Allies take stock of response to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Georgia , we have been to Ukraine .
We want their reforms to come forward so that they can prevail over the Russian misinformation and actual border-enforcing of parts of their countries – Georgia and Ukraine , '' she said .
`` Russia must let those countries have their sovereign rule , their sovereign territory , their boundaries , and we are very intent on helping Georgia and Ukraine continue to respond to the Russian aggression that has taken over parts of their countries .
And we are not going to let @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added .
She also reiterates the Alliance adheres to an open door policy , and North Macedonia 's case proves the effectiveness of the policy .
Hutchison stressed that assistance was being provided to Ukraine and Georgia , and a support package for Ukraine and Georgia would be discussed at a meeting of NATO foreign ministers on April 2 .
`` So we have an open door .
I think that 's what the accession of North Macedonia shows .
And we are helping our partners , Georgia and Ukraine .
We are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discussed tomorrow at the foreign ministerial .
I believe the foreign ministers will approve a package that continues to build on our support and help for Georgia and Ukraine , '' she said .

The Alliance pursues an open door policy.
The United States is committed that Ukraine and Georgia to become the future members of NATO.
"We are committed to all of those countries to become the future members of NATO. We want all of them," Kay Bailey Hutchison, U.S. Permanent Representative to NATO, said during a LiveAtState briefing on April 1, 2020, when asked what the enlargement of the Alliance after North Macedonia became its 30th member means for aspirant countries like Georgia, Ukraine, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Read alsoNATO Allies take stock of response to COVID-19 outbreak
Видео дня
"And we have been to Georgia, we have been to Ukraine. We want their reforms to come forward so that they can prevail over the Russian misinformation and actual border-enforcing of parts of their countries – Georgia and Ukraine," she said.
"Russia must let those countries have their sovereign rule, their sovereign territory, their boundaries, and we are very intent on helping Georgia and Ukraine continue to respond to the Russian aggression that has taken over parts of their countries. And we are not going to let down on those efforts," she added.
She also reiterates the Alliance adheres to an open door policy, and North Macedonia's case proves the effectiveness of the policy.
Hutchison stressed that assistance was being provided to Ukraine and Georgia, and a support package for Ukraine and Georgia would be discussed at a meeting of NATO foreign ministers on April 2.
"So we have an open door. I think that's what the accession of North Macedonia shows. And we are helping our partners, Georgia and Ukraine. We are giving them a package that will be discussed tomorrow at the foreign ministerial. I believe the foreign ministers will approve a package that continues to build on our support and help for Georgia and Ukraine," she said.


unian--2020-04-02--EU: Putin's order banning non-Russian citizens from owning land in Crimea violates law

The EU does not recognize the decree .
The European Union says that Russian President Vladimir Putin 's recent order banning non-Russian citizens from owning land in Russia-occupied Crimea violates international humanitarian law .
`` Russia has recently added , by a presidential decree , most of Crimea and Sevastopol to the list of border territories of the Russian Federation in which non-Russian citizens are prevented from owning land , '' Peter Stano , the lead spokesperson of European Union External Action for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy , said in a statement on April 1 .
`` The decree @ @ @ @ @ @ @ international humanitarian law , as it is another step towards the imposition of Russian citizenship in the peninsula .
This could also lead to the arbitrary deprivation of property . ''
Read alsoUkraine to sue Russia in int ' l courts after Ukrainians in Crimea banned from owning land plots The European Union says it does not recognize the illegal annexation of the Crimean peninsula by Russia , which is a clear violation of international law .
`` Therefore , the European Union does not recognise this decree , which is yet another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into Russia .
Crimea is part of Ukraine , '' it said .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Putin on March 20 , 2020 , expanded the list of territories where foreigners are not allowed to own land .
The list includes most of the areas in Russia-occupied Crimea .
The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that Ukraine would appeal to international courts over Russia 's ban on Ukrainians ' ownership of land on the peninsula , which was seized by Russia from Ukraine in March 2014 .

The EU does not recognize the decree.
The European Union says that Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent order banning non-Russian citizens from owning land in Russia-occupied Crimea violates international humanitarian law.
"Russia has recently added, by a presidential decree, most of Crimea and Sevastopol to the list of border territories of the Russian Federation in which non-Russian citizens are prevented from owning land," Peter Stano, the lead spokesperson of European Union External Action for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, said in a statement on April 1. "The decree is […] a violation of international humanitarian law, as it is another step towards the imposition of Russian citizenship in the peninsula. This could also lead to the arbitrary deprivation of property."
Read alsoUkraine to sue Russia in int'l courts after Ukrainians in Crimea banned from owning land plots
Видео дня
The European Union says it does not recognize the illegal annexation of the Crimean peninsula by Russia, which is a clear violation of international law. "Therefore, the European Union does not recognise this decree, which is yet another attempt to forcibly integrate the illegally-annexed peninsula into Russia. Crimea is part of Ukraine," it said.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Putin on March 20, 2020, expanded the list of territories where foreigners are not allowed to own land. The list includes most of the areas in Russia-occupied Crimea.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that Ukraine would appeal to international courts over Russia's ban on Ukrainians' ownership of land on the peninsula, which was seized by Russia from Ukraine in March 2014.


unian--2020-04-01--Ukraine's Health Ministry triples salaries for doctors, nurses on coronavirus frontline

They will get increased salaries for March already .
Ukraine 's Health Ministry has announced that it has tripled salaries @ @ @ @ @ other healthcare workers on the coronavirus frontlines .
Medical workers who have been treating patients @ @ @ @ @ additional pay for March in the amount of three official salaries , it said on @ @ @ @ @ amid quarantine : What businesses and citizens should expect The order , signed by newly @ @ @ @ @ , lists medical workers who will have a pay rise starting from March : emergency @ @ @ @ @ infectious diseases specialists , pathologists , epidemiologists , laboratory assistants , anesthetists , radiologists , @ @ @ @ @ practitioners , pediatricians , nurses , drivers , and other healthcare workers directly involved in @ @ @ @ @ .
It says that the increased salaries will be paid during the implementation of measures @ @ @ @ @ and spread of COVID-19 , as well as eliminating its epidemics and pandemics .

Ukraine's Health Ministry triples salaries for doctors, nurses on coronavirus frontline
23:59, 01.04.20 5794
They will get increased salaries for March already.
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unian--2020-04-01--Zelensky, Erdogan discuss supplies of protective gear to Ukraine

The Turkish president also assured the problems faced by Ukrainian road haulage companies on the Turkish-Bulgarian border over the ban on entry to Turkey would be settled .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has had a phone call with his Turkish counterpart , Recep Tayyip Erdoğan , during which the latter promised to respond to Ukraine 's requests for the supply of respirators and protective suits .
`` They have discussed the situation with the spread of coronavirus in the world and the measures taken in both countries to ensure the protection of citizens .
A number of practical arrangements have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between Ukraine and Turkey to combat the pandemic and its aftermath .
The President of Turkey has promised to promptly consider requests of the Ukrainian party for the supply of respirators and protective suits , '' the press service of Zelensky 's Office reported on April 1 .
Read alsoNew batch of PRC tests , protective gear from China delivered by plane to Ukraine The Turkish president also assured the problems faced by Ukrainian road haulage companies on the Turkish-Bulgarian border over the ban on entry to Turkey would be settled .
Erdoğan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receive the respective instructions .
What is more , the Ukrainian president thanked the Turkish side for its consistent support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine , its condemnation of the illegal annexation of Crimea , and for its support for the Crimean Tatars .
`` In this regard , the presidents expressed content with the implementation of the agreements reached during their personal meeting on February 3 this year , including the construction of housing in Kherson and Henichesk for internally displaced persons ( IDPs ) from Crimea , '' @ @ @

The Turkish president also assured the problems faced by Ukrainian road haulage companies on the Turkish-Bulgarian border over the ban on entry to Turkey would be settled.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has had a phone call with his Turkish counterpart, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, during which the latter promised to respond to Ukraine's requests for the supply of respirators and protective suits.
"They have discussed the situation with the spread of coronavirus in the world and the measures taken in both countries to ensure the protection of citizens. A number of practical arrangements have been made to coordinate efforts and cooperation between Ukraine and Turkey to combat the pandemic and its aftermath. The President of Turkey has promised to promptly consider requests of the Ukrainian party for the supply of respirators and protective suits," the press service of Zelensky's Office reported on April 1.
Read alsoNew batch of PRC tests, protective gear from China delivered by plane to Ukraine
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The Turkish president also assured the problems faced by Ukrainian road haulage companies on the Turkish-Bulgarian border over the ban on entry to Turkey would be settled. Erdoğan said that the responsible Turkish ministries would receive the respective instructions.
What is more, the Ukrainian president thanked the Turkish side for its consistent support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, its condemnation of the illegal annexation of Crimea, and for its support for the Crimean Tatars.
"In this regard, the presidents expressed content with the implementation of the agreements reached during their personal meeting on February 3 this year, including the construction of housing in Kherson and Henichesk for internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Crimea," it said.


unian--2020-04-01--Ukraine's central bank spends US$2.2 bln from reserves to prop up hryvnia in March

The hryvnia weakened by 7.4 % in March from February .
The National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) in @ @ @ @ @ 2.2 billion from its reserves to prop up the hryvnia , the national currency .
@ @ @ @ @ year , foreign currency sales by the NBU on the interbank market have exceeded purchases @ @ @ @ @ , the regulator said on its website .
Read alsoNational Bank not ready to lift @ @ @ @ @ market '' The hryvnia weakened by 7.4 % in March from February as measured by @ @ @ @ @ , ending the month 14.3 % lower against the U.S. dollar , '' the NBU @ @ @ @ @ Monetary Review for March 2020 .
As UNIAN reported , the NBU in 2019 replenished @ @ @ @ @ $ 7.9 billion on the country 's interbank forex market .
Ukraine 's international reserves @ @ @ @ @ % , to US $ 25.3 billion and are currently estimated at about US $ @ @ @

The hryvnia weakened by 7.4% in March from February.
The National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) in March 2020 spent US$2.2 billion from its reserves to prop up the hryvnia, the national currency.
Since the beginning of the year, foreign currency sales by the NBU on the interbank market have exceeded purchases by US$1.4 billion, the regulator said on its website.
Read alsoNational Bank not ready to lift restrictions on Ukraine's forex market
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"The hryvnia weakened by 7.4% in March from February as measured by the average UAH/USD exchange rate, ending the month 14.3% lower against the U.S. dollar," the NBU said in its Macroeconomic and Monetary Review for March 2020.
As UNIAN reported, the NBU in 2019 replenished its reserves through buying US$7.9 billion on the country's interbank forex market.
Ukraine's international reserves in 2019 grew by 22%, to US$25.3 billion and are currently estimated at about US$25 billion.


unian--2020-04-01--Number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Ukraine nearing 800 by Wednesday evening

Twenty COVID-19 deaths have already been reported in the country .
The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ 794 by Wednesday evening .
`` According to the Public Health Center , there were @ @ @ @ @ identified with the use of PCR [ polymerase chain reaction ] in Ukraine as of @ @ @ @ @ 1 , '' Ukraine 's Health Ministry said on Facebook in its evening update on @ @ @ @ @ deaths have already been reported in the country .
Thirteen patients have recovered , their @ @ @ @ @ , the ministry said .
As UNIAN reported earlier , there were 645 confirmed COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ evening .

Twenty COVID-19 deaths have already been reported in the country.
The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in Ukraine had risen to 794 by Wednesday evening.
"According to the Public Health Center, there were 794 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 identified with the use of PCR [polymerase chain reaction] in Ukraine as of 22:00 Kyiv time on April 1," Ukraine's Health Ministry said on Facebook in its evening update on April 1.
Read alsoUkraine's Cabinet lists new quarantine measures
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Twenty COVID-19 deaths have already been reported in the country.
Thirteen patients have recovered, their repeat tests have been negative, the ministry said.
As UNIAN reported earlier, there were 645 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Ukraine on Tuesday evening.


unian--2020-04-01--Number of confirmed COVID-19 cases worldwide exceeds 905,000

As many as 180 countries have been affected by the virus .
The number of confirmed coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) @ @ @ @ @ 905,279 .
The data as of 08:11 p.m. local time on April 1 was provided @ @ @ @ @ Cases dashboard by the Center for Systems Science and Engineering ( CSSE ) at Johns @ @ @ @ @ five countries with the highest number of confirmed cases were the United States with 199,092 @ @ @ @ @ , Spain with 102,136 , China with 82,361 , and Germany with 76,544 .
The @ @ @ @ @ .
The highest death tolls were reported in Italy ( 13,155 people ) , Spain @ @ @ @ @ United States ( 4,361 ) , France ( 3,523 ) , Hubei China ( 3,193 @ @ @ @ @ 3,031 ) .
Some 190,710 COVID-19 patients have already recovered .
As many as 180 @ @ @ @ @ the virus .
As of 10:00 Kyiv time on April 1 , Ukraine had confirmed @ @ @ @ @ deaths .

As many as 180 countries have been affected by the virus.
The number of confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) cases worldwide has increased to 905,279.
The data as of 08:11 p.m. local time on April 1 was provided by the Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases dashboard by the Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University.
Read alsoUkraine's Cabinet lists new quarantine measures
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The top five countries with the highest number of confirmed cases were the United States with 199,092 cases, Italy with 110,574, Spain with 102,136, China with 82,361, and Germany with 76,544.
The total deaths stood at 45,497. The highest death tolls were reported in Italy (13,155 people), Spain (9,053), the United States (4,361), France (3,523), Hubei China (3,193), and Iran (3,031).
Some 190,710 COVID-19 patients have already recovered.
As many as 180 countries have been affected by the virus.
As of 10:00 Kyiv time on April 1, Ukraine had confirmed 669 cases, including 17 deaths.


unian--2020-04-01--Ukraine's Cabinet lists new quarantine measures

Coronavirus cases are expected to peak over Easter .
To prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) , Ukraine 's Cabinet has announced new , tougher measures for the period of the respective quarantine until April 24 , 2020 .
In particular , in public places , people should be wearing face masks and only a group of two individuals will be allowed .
Such measures were proposed to be added to government resolution No .
211 on preventing the spread of COVID-19 in Ukrainian territory .
The government will have one day to finalize the proposals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Wednesday , April 1 .
`` Given a daily increase in the number of patients with COVID-19 in Ukraine by more than 10 % and taking into account the decision of the State Commission on Industry-Related and Environmental Safety and Emergencies and international experience , the government considers it necessary to introduce more stringent quarantine measures , '' it said .
In particular , during the quarantine scheduled to end on April 24 , 2020 , throughout Ukraine , citizens will not be allowed to : - stay in public places without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move by a group of more than two persons , except for cases of service exigency and the need to accompany children ; - stay in public places if persons are under 16 and are not accompanied by adults ; - visit parks , public gardens , recreation areas , park belts and coastal areas , except for walking pets by one person and in case of service requirements ; - conduct mass events ( cultural , entertaining , sports , social , religious , advertising and other gatherings ) involving more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ necessary for the work of state authorities and local self-government agencies , etc .
It should be noted that certain restrictive measures have already been put in place by certain local authorities .
All other restrictions will be finalized after taking into account the proposals of Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights Liudmyla Denisova and the respective ministries and agencies .
As was reported , the decision to strengthen the quarantine-related measures was made at the initiative of the Health Minister at a Cabinet meeting on April 1 , with finalization due until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apply to transportation , self-isolation , and observation .

Coronavirus cases are expected to peak over Easter.
To prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), Ukraine's Cabinet has announced new, tougher measures for the period of the respective quarantine until April 24, 2020. In particular, in public places, people should be wearing face masks and only a group of two individuals will be allowed.
Such measures were proposed to be added to government resolution No. 211 on preventing the spread of COVID-19 in Ukrainian territory.
The government will have one day to finalize the proposals, the Cabinet's press service said on Wednesday, April 1.
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Read alsoZelensky's Office: Ukraine mulling over tougher quarantine measures from April 6
"Given a daily increase in the number of patients with COVID-19 in Ukraine by more than 10% and taking into account the decision of the State Commission on Industry-Related and Environmental Safety and Emergencies and international experience, the government considers it necessary to introduce more stringent quarantine measures," it said.
In particular, during the quarantine scheduled to end on April 24, 2020, throughout Ukraine, citizens will not be allowed to:
- stay in public places without a face mask or respirator;
- move by a group of more than two persons, except for cases of service exigency and the need to accompany children;
- stay in public places if persons are under 16 and are not accompanied by adults;
- visit parks, public gardens, recreation areas, park belts and coastal areas, except for walking pets by one person and in case of service requirements;
- visit sports grounds and children's playgrounds;
- conduct mass events (cultural, entertaining, sports, social, religious, advertising and other gatherings) involving more than 10 participants, except for the measures necessary for the work of state authorities and local self-government agencies, etc.
It should be noted that certain restrictive measures have already been put in place by certain local authorities.
All other restrictions will be finalized after taking into account the proposals of Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights Liudmyla Denisova and the respective ministries and agencies.
As was reported, the decision to strengthen the quarantine-related measures was made at the initiative of the Health Minister at a Cabinet meeting on April 1, with finalization due until April 2.
The new restrictions will apply to transportation, self-isolation, and observation.


unian--2020-04-01--Zelensky's Office: Ukraine mulling over tougher quarantine measures from April 6

Coronavirus cases are expected to peak over Easter .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky 's Office says the government is mulling over the introduction of tougher quarantine measures for the period of April 6 through April 24 .
These issues were discussed during a daily Zelensky-chaired intercom meeting on the fight against the coronavirus , the press service of the Office of the President said on April 1 .
Read alsoPoll : Over 50 % of Ukrainians believe COVID-19 threat `` real '' In particular , the measures include the mandatory use of face masks and a limited number of people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ peak over Easter , the press service said .
`` To prevent this , the authorities have negotiated with all television groups on the broadcast of Easter church services .
So far , only three TV channels have not responded regarding such broadcasts , but negotiations with them are under way , '' it said .
Today , 20,000 law enforcement officers are on duty , monitoring how Ukrainians have been observing the quarantine in Ukraine , it added .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10:00 Kyiv time on April 1 .

Coronavirus cases are expected to peak over Easter.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's Office says the government is mulling over the introduction of tougher quarantine measures for the period of April 6 through April 24.
These issues were discussed during a daily Zelensky-chaired intercom meeting on the fight against the coronavirus, the press service of the Office of the President said on April 1.
Read alsoPoll: Over 50% of Ukrainians believe COVID-19 threat "real"
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In particular, the measures include the mandatory use of face masks and a limited number of people outdoors.
Coronavirus cases are expected to peak over Easter, the press service said. "To prevent this, the authorities have negotiated with all television groups on the broadcast of Easter church services. So far, only three TV channels have not responded regarding such broadcasts, but negotiations with them are under way," it said.
Today, 20,000 law enforcement officers are on duty, monitoring how Ukrainians have been observing the quarantine in Ukraine, it added.
As UNIAN reported earlier, the number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus in Ukraine rose to 669 as of 10:00 Kyiv time on April 1.


unian--2020-04-01--Government aid amid quarantine: What businesses and citizens should expect

The Verkhovna Rada at an extraordinary meeting on March 30 adopted without debate at first reading a bill developed by the government on additional social and economic guarantees in connection with the epidemic of coronavirus .
The Rada had approved the first `` assistance '' package on March 17 .
They made amendments to the tax legislation , which prohibited imposing penalties for tax violations committed from March 1 to April 30 , 2020 ; established a moratorium on audits from March 18 to May 18 , 2020 ; and extended until July 1 , 2020 , a deadline for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stipulated that from March 1 to April 30 , 2020 , land rent shall not be charged and paid , while non-residential real estate owned by individuals or legal entities shall not be subject to taxation .
In addition , medical goods imported into Ukraine and paid for by government money were exempted from value added tax .
Businesses immediately stated that the relief was n't sufficient .
Tough quarantine measures , taking into account the impending global economic crisis provoked by the COVID-19 pandemic , could greatly bring down the economy – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by 9 % , while the hryvnia may weaken to UAH 35 to the dollar .
According to the European Business Association , almost half of domestic companies have already recorded between 20 % and 50 % of revenue losses .
Without drastic measures and real help to businesses , it would be impossible for the latter to survive .
The government agreed with this suggestion and developed a new aid package , which the Rada approved on March 30 .
The main provisions of the new law are as follows : - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appealing against decisions of regulatory bodies has been suspended ; - Application of fines for the late repayment of aviation fuel bills has been delayed ; - The increase the interest rate on credit agreements has been forbidden ; - The right was granted to local authorities in 2020 to make changes regarding the reduction of local tax rates and/or fees and the reduction of single tax rates ; - The ban has been extended until June 30 on conducting scheduled inspections in the field of commercial activity , except for state supervision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ late payment of a single contribution to compulsory state social insurance , as well as for its incomplete payment or for late reporting to the tax authorities , have been suspended for the period until May 31 ; - From March 1 to March 31 , from April 1 to 30 , and from May 1 to May 31 , 2020 , single tax payers shall not be charged a penalty , while penalties accrued for these periods is subject to write-off ; - A moratorium has been established on conducting audits of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ single social contribution for the period from March 18 to May 31 , 2020 , as well as for the period until May 31 inclusively , while deadlines for considering single social contribution taxpayers ' complaints have been suspended ; - For business , a privilege has been established for the payment of income tax on condition of financing measures to combat the coronavirus ; - Spirit supplies for the production of antiseptics have been streamlines , and their production at the factories of Ukrspyrt has been allowed ; - Land tax and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to local budgets ; - Amendments have beene made to the Code of Labor Laws : by agreement between the employee and the employer , a flexible working time for a certain or indefinite period can be established for an employee , both during hiring and subsequently ; - Downtime for the quarantine period if it is n't an employee 's fault shall be paid at the rate of at least two-thirds of the tariff rate , while partial unemployment assistance is set for every hour by which the employee 's working hours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of two-thirds of the tariff rate ; - Fines have been raised for violating the pricing procedure for social goods , whose limit shall be set by the Cabinet of Ministers .
However , businesses still seem to be unsatisfied with the new set of measures .
`` All that we can '' On the eve of the adoption of the new `` quarantine '' bill , the mayors of 23 cities of Ukraine sent an open appeal to president , parliament speaker , and prime minister with a request to postpone consideration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ published on Facebook by Dnipro Mayor Borys Filatov ) .
It noted that `` local governments are now providing increased salaries to doctors , purchasing medications , masks , tests , equipment for hospitals , for which hundreds of millions of hryvnias is being allocated .
Meanwhile , instead of supporting communities , as is happening all over the world , adopting changes to the tax and budget codes would deprive communities of resources . ''
The mayors demanded that the committee on finance , tax and customs policy hold a meeting and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Association of Ukrainian Cities .
But , the appeals have fallen deaf ears , it appears .
After the draft law passed first reading , Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko , who chairs the Association of Ukrainian Cities , said that local budgets due to tax changes will fall short of UAH 12 billion .
`` Contrary to the position of the president and prime minister , which they declared at a meeting with the mayors , the deputies did not heed the demands of local communities and passed a bill creating unfair conditions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ individual large businesses through taxes to the budgets of all levels .
Losses of the capital 's budget alone ( in the fight against coronavirus ) will amount to about UAH 1.6 billion , '' Klitschko emphasized .
According to him , as a result , communities will lack funds to pay wages to doctors , teachers , social workers , educators , as well as workers in the transport industry and utility services .
`` That 's because deputies took into account only part of the proposals put forward by the Association @ @ @ @ @ @ @ For example , they granted a deferment in the payment of tax on land and real estate to both non-operating and operating businesses .
They provided local governments with the opportunity to decide on a review of rates only for a single tax .
And also , they deprived citizens of the funds from land rent in March , thus ensuring profits to agricultural holdings .
This is unfair , '' said Klitschko .
The European Business Association also has important comments on government law , although the Cabinet did implement a number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important thing that concerns companies at the moment is the preservation of fines for violation of deadlines for the declaration and payment of taxes , namely : VAT , excise tax , rent , and fines for violation of the accounting for the production , storage and transportation of fuel and ethyl alcohol , which the business community has repeatedly noted , '' the EBA said .
According to the Association , the issues of the prohibition of any audits or inquiries by the tax service , at least until the end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unscheduled inspections have not been banned ) ; enforcements of court rulings on registration of tax invoices ; timely refund of VAT ; and cancellation of taxation of income from bank deposits of individuals and legal entities .
The Association also emphasizes that the new law did not reflect such proposals as a reduction in taxes on the wage fund , which would allow employers to refrain from layoffs , and , as a result , the country would avoid mass protests ; introduction of the payment of benefits for temporary disability at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the first day of illness ; exempting from taxation personal income tax and military tax insurance premiums under contracts of employees ' voluntary health insurance .
The proposal has remained unrealized to introduce a transparent mechanism for regulating prices for medications , medical supplies , and essentials ( the law does provide for regulation , but today there is no mechanism for such regulation ) .
At the same time , businesses consider it unfair to reduce the grace period for exemption from land fees and real estate tax ( it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
The European Business Association has called on the Verkhovna Rada to look into a detailed list of proposals when preparing the next draft law in order to support entrepreneurs .
`` Of course , on behalf of businesses , we thank the Verkhovna Rada for their attention to the proposals put forward by the community and the decisions made .
Unfortunately , today there are still many unaddressed norms .
And in this context , it is the quick work that is extremely important .
Indeed , every day it becomes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Therefore , I really hope that we will be able to find consensus on the other proposals , because the crisis really requires more solutions , '' said EBA Executive Director Anna Derevyanko .
Experts also have claims to the new law .
Economic expert Oleh Pendzin believes that the general tone of the new law is `` those who are drowning should take care about saving themselves '' .
`` For businesses , a moratorium on tax audits is being extended .
It 's actually difficult to check those who are in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ though !
Until the end of May , cancellation of fines and penalties for late payments of ERUs is valid .
That is , you still need to pay , but they will 'tear you apart ' for non-payment later – when they check figures .
After all , the tax authorities are also human beings – auditing others at the time of an epidemic is subjecting themselves to risk .
The law allows those who are in quarantine not to pay rent .
Very nicely laid out ...
It would be nice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rent from the budget .
But this way , this means people will enjoy their debts being forgiven .
But a question remains : where will a landlord get the money to pay for utilities ? ''
he said .
`` They decided to free from VAT the turnover of medications needed to fight coronavirus .
It 's just not clear what exactly they will exempt from VAT — there is no cure for this virus .
We have been told about this many times .
So people are treated with anything that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And often , these medications are not traditional .
So who will prepare the list of VAT exemptions ?
Obligatory registration in the Ministry of Health is being removed for manufacturers of sanitizers .
Apparently , that 's to ensure that sanitizers , or whatever will be produced under this name , are made faster .
There is no registration at the Ministry of Health . ''
`` For citizens , there 's 'unprecedented generosity'… You may not pay penalties and fines on consumer loans so far .
Although , you do need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back your debts .
No one is going to forgive anything , even if you 've lost your job due to quarantine .
But you are allowed to not pay fines and penalties pending quarantine .
Social payments are being extended and people do n't need to go anywhere and there is no need to go through commissions to extend the payment term .
but verification has not gone anywhere .
And if it later turns out that you received wrong figures , you will have to return this money , but that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ explains .
According to him , the main thing is that most countries are now trying to help their citizens and businesses .
Meanwhile , Ukrainian deputies failed to approve changes to the 2020 budget , implying the creation of an assistance fund .
MPs just sent the draft for revision .
An expert on tax law and financial investigations Sviatoslav Dubyna generally estimates the anti-crisis bill as positive , but not sufficient .
`` It is great that the bill provides for a number of concessions for businesses , establishes benefits for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that businesses finance measures to combat coronavirus .
Meanwhile , businesses were the first ones to respond and support medical facilities in preparation for a possible epidemic in Ukraine , helping with the provision of protective equipment , ventilators , antiseptics , and other necessary medications , without waiting for signals from the state .
It 's a right thing that the state tuned in and responded adequately !
A number of other decisions have also been made on tax exemptions , inspections and fines during the fight against the virus .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the receipt of social benefits by citizens , a ban was introduced on raising interest rates on loans , as well as levying fines and penalties on consumer loans taken before 2017 .
However , it is not entirely clear why these loans had to be taken before 2017. Who lobbied for this norm ?
But that 's not the point .
The bottom line is that we are again taking half-hearted measures that will not lead to global changes in the Ukrainian economy and its growth , '' the expert emphasizes .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the government and the president act without thinking a few steps forward .
Although now is the moment to give businesses and people an impetus – the time has come for big changes .
The world will never be the same ; there is a global redistribution of markets .
Ukraine must find its rightful place on the world map .
`` The economic crisis , accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic , is not only a problem , but also an opportunity for fundamental and profound changes in the system of government , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ center , citizen participation in the organization and control of power , as well as creating conditions for industrial development , entrepreneurship , attracting investment , and developing the economy as a whole .
Now all the flaws of the Ukrainian state are crystallizing and looking much brighter .
In times of danger , the instinct of self-preservation and resistance to challenges is exacerbated .
In the first days when coronavirus cases started emerging in Ukraine , businesses demonstrated just that .
Support headquarters were organized , funds were allocated to help medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , protective gear , etc .
Had the president come out with these theses to people and parliament and proposed to unite around the creation of such a comprehensive program , I think he would n't have had to go and convince deputies to vote for some bills .
Still , thanks for at least slightly loosening the noose on the neck of businesses and citizens , '' the expert summed up .
This is just the beginning The Cabinet is well aware of all the problems for the economy caused by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crisis .
The government understands that Ukrainians and businesses can not actually stay idle without making money for too long .
Therefore , several options have already been developed to bring the economy out of strict quarantine .
`` There is a question – after the Easter holidays , we must understand when we will come to positive dynamics on the disease , and after that we 'll see what we can do .
We have developed and are now calculating several scenarios .
A scenario , for example , of China – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restrictions .
There is a milder scenario , but with very strict compliance with sanitary and hygienic requirements , that is , face masks , social distancing , and so on .
All these scenarios are being worked out .
I 'm sure that in just a few days we will present them and talk about how we move on , '' said Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal .
Many points of assistance for both businesses and citizens are described in the bill on amendments to the state budget 2020 , which the deputies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a week , the draft will be adopted .
And then it will be possible to implement a set of measures to prevent the collapse of the Ukrainian economy .

The Verkhovna Rada has passed a bill, submitted by government, on additional social and economic guarantees in connection with the coronavirus epidemic. Businesses assure that the measures being taken are not enough to get the country out of the crisis. UNIAN learned about the ways the Cabinet is going to help the Ukrainians, and things to which they turned a blind eye.
The Verkhovna Rada at an extraordinary meeting on March 30 adopted without debate at first reading a bill developed by the government on additional social and economic guarantees in connection with the epidemic of coronavirus.
The Rada had approved the first "assistance" package on March 17. They made amendments to the tax legislation, which prohibited imposing penalties for tax violations committed from March 1 to April 30, 2020; established a moratorium on audits from March 18 to May 18, 2020; and extended until July 1, 2020, a deadline for submitting asset declarations. The document also stipulated that from March 1 to April 30, 2020, land rent shall not be charged and paid, while non-residential real estate owned by individuals or legal entities shall not be subject to taxation. In addition, medical goods imported into Ukraine and paid for by government money were exempted from value added tax.
Businesses immediately stated that the relief wasn't sufficient. Tough quarantine measures, taking into account the impending global economic crisis provoked by the COVID-19 pandemic, could greatly bring down the economy – Ukraine's GDP in 2020 may fall by 9%, while the hryvnia may weaken to UAH 35 to the dollar. According to the European Business Association, almost half of domestic companies have already recorded between 20% and 50% of revenue losses. Without drastic measures and real help to businesses, it would be impossible for the latter to survive. The government agreed with this suggestion and developed a new aid package, which the Rada approved on March 30.
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The main provisions of the new law are as follows:
- The course of all procedural terms for appealing against decisions of regulatory bodies has been suspended;
- Application of fines for the late repayment of aviation fuel bills has been delayed;
- The increase the interest rate on credit agreements has been forbidden;
- The right was granted to local authorities in 2020 to make changes regarding the reduction of local tax rates and/or fees and the reduction of single tax rates;
- The ban has been extended until June 30 on conducting scheduled inspections in the field of commercial activity, except for state supervision (control);
- Penalties for late payment of a single contribution to compulsory state social insurance, as well as for its incomplete payment or for late reporting to the tax authorities, have been suspended for the period until May 31;
- From March 1 to March 31, from April 1 to 30, and from May 1 to May 31, 2020, single tax payers shall not be charged a penalty, while penalties accrued for these periods is subject to write-off;
- A moratorium has been established on conducting audits of correctness of accrual and payment of a single social contribution for the period from March 18 to May 31, 2020, as well as for the period until May 31 inclusively, while deadlines for considering single social contribution taxpayers' complaints have been suspended;
- For business, a privilege has been established for the payment of income tax on condition of financing measures to combat the coronavirus;
- Spirit supplies for the production of antiseptics have been streamlines, and their production at the factories of Ukrspyrt has been allowed;
- Land tax and property tax for April shall be returned to local budgets;
- Amendments have beene made to the Code of Labor Laws: by agreement between the employee and the employer, a flexible working time for a certain or indefinite period can be established for an employee, both during hiring and subsequently;
- Downtime for the quarantine period if it isn't an employee's fault shall be paid at the rate of at least two-thirds of the tariff rate, while partial unemployment assistance is set for every hour by which the employee's working hours have been reduced, at the rate of two-thirds of the tariff rate;
- Fines have been raised for violating the pricing procedure for social goods, whose limit shall be set by the Cabinet of Ministers.
However, businesses still seem to be unsatisfied with the new set of measures.
"All that we can"
On the eve of the adoption of the new "quarantine" bill, the mayors of 23 cities of Ukraine sent an open appeal to president, parliament speaker, and prime minister with a request to postpone consideration of the bill (the appeal was published on Facebook by Dnipro Mayor Borys Filatov).
It noted that "local governments are now providing increased salaries to doctors, purchasing medications, masks, tests, equipment for hospitals, for which hundreds of millions of hryvnias is being allocated. Meanwhile, instead of supporting communities, as is happening all over the world, adopting changes to the tax and budget codes would deprive communities of resources."
The mayors demanded that the committee on finance, tax and customs policy hold a meeting and take into account the proposals of the Association of Ukrainian Cities. But, the appeals have fallen deaf ears, it appears.
After the draft law passed first reading, Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko, who chairs the Association of Ukrainian Cities, said that local budgets due to tax changes will fall short of UAH 12 billion. "Contrary to the position of the president and prime minister, which they declared at a meeting with the mayors, the deputies did not heed the demands of local communities and passed a bill creating unfair conditions for businesses. They provided super-profits to individual large businesses through taxes to the budgets of all levels. Losses of the capital's budget alone (in the fight against coronavirus) will amount to about UAH 1.6 billion," Klitschko emphasized.
According to him, as a result, communities will lack funds to pay wages to doctors, teachers, social workers, educators, as well as workers in the transport industry and utility services.
"That's because deputies took into account only part of the proposals put forward by the Association. And they approved half-hearted decisions. For example, they granted a deferment in the payment of tax on land and real estate to both non-operating and operating businesses. They provided local governments with the opportunity to decide on a review of rates only for a single tax. And also, they deprived citizens of the funds from land rent in March, thus ensuring profits to agricultural holdings. This is unfair," said Klitschko.
The European Business Association also has important comments on government law, although the Cabinet did implement a number of their proposals.
"The most important thing that concerns companies at the moment is the preservation of fines for violation of deadlines for the declaration and payment of taxes, namely: VAT, excise tax, rent, and fines for violation of the accounting for the production, storage and transportation of fuel and ethyl alcohol, which the business community has repeatedly noted," the EBA said.
According to the Association, the issues of the prohibition of any audits or inquiries by the tax service, at least until the end of the quarantine, are unaccounted for (unscheduled inspections have not been banned); enforcements of court rulings on registration of tax invoices; timely refund of VAT; and cancellation of taxation of income from bank deposits of individuals and legal entities.
The Association also emphasizes that the new law did not reflect such proposals as a reduction in taxes on the wage fund, which would allow employers to refrain from layoffs, and, as a result, the country would avoid mass protests; introduction of the payment of benefits for temporary disability at the expense of the Social Insurance Fund from the first day of illness; exempting from taxation personal income tax and military tax insurance premiums under contracts of employees' voluntary health insurance.
The proposal has remained unrealized to introduce a transparent mechanism for regulating prices for medications, medical supplies, and essentials (the law does provide for regulation, but today there is no mechanism for such regulation).
At the same time, businesses consider it unfair to reduce the grace period for exemption from land fees and real estate tax (it was reduced from April 30 to March 31).
The European Business Association has called on the Verkhovna Rada to look into a detailed list of proposals when preparing the next draft law in order to support entrepreneurs. "Of course, on behalf of businesses, we thank the Verkhovna Rada for their attention to the proposals put forward by the community and the decisions made. Unfortunately, today there are still many unaddressed norms. And in this context, it is the quick work that is extremely important. Indeed, every day it becomes increasingly difficult for businesses to operate. Therefore, I really hope that we will be able to find consensus on the other proposals, because the crisis really requires more solutions," said EBA Executive Director Anna Derevyanko.
Important nuances left out
Experts also have claims to the new law. Economic expert Oleh Pendzin believes that the general tone of the new law is "those who are drowning should take care about saving themselves".
"For businesses, a moratorium on tax audits is being extended. It's actually difficult to check those who are in quarantine, but it does sound nice though! Until the end of May, cancellation of fines and penalties for late payments of ERUs is valid. That is, you still need to pay, but they will 'tear you apart' for non-payment later – when they check figures. After all, the tax authorities are also human beings – auditing others at the time of an epidemic is subjecting themselves to risk. The law allows those who are in quarantine not to pay rent. Very nicely laid out... It would be nice if the state reimbursed the cost of rent from the budget. But this way, this means people will enjoy their debts being forgiven. But a question remains: where will a landlord get the money to pay for utilities?" he said.
"They decided to free from VAT the turnover of medications needed to fight coronavirus. It's just not clear what exactly they will exempt from VAT — there is no cure for this virus. We have been told about this many times. So people are treated with anything that at least somehow affects the disease. And often, these medications are not traditional. So who will prepare the list of VAT exemptions? Obligatory registration in the Ministry of Health is being removed for manufacturers of sanitizers. Apparently, that's to ensure that sanitizers, or whatever will be produced under this name, are made faster. There is no registration at the Ministry of Health."
"For citizens, there's 'unprecedented generosity'… You may not pay penalties and fines on consumer loans so far. Although, you do need to pay interest on loans and pay back your debts. No one is going to forgive anything, even if you've lost your job due to quarantine. But you are allowed to not pay fines and penalties pending quarantine. Social payments are being extended and people don't need to go anywhere and there is no need to go through commissions to extend the payment term. but verification has not gone anywhere. And if it later turns out that you received wrong figures, you will have to return this money, but that will come later," the expert explains.
According to him, the main thing is that most countries are now trying to help their citizens and businesses. Meanwhile, Ukrainian deputies failed to approve changes to the 2020 budget, implying the creation of an assistance fund. MPs just sent the draft for revision.
An expert on tax law and financial investigations Sviatoslav Dubyna generally estimates the anti-crisis bill as positive, but not sufficient.
"It is great that the bill provides for a number of concessions for businesses, establishes benefits for the payment of income tax, provided that businesses finance measures to combat coronavirus. Meanwhile, businesses were the first ones to respond and support medical facilities in preparation for a possible epidemic in Ukraine, helping with the provision of protective equipment, ventilators, antiseptics, and other necessary medications, without waiting for signals from the state. It's a right thing that the state tuned in and responded adequately! A number of other decisions have also been made on tax exemptions, inspections and fines during the fight against the virus. A number of decisions were taken to simplify the receipt of social benefits by citizens, a ban was introduced on raising interest rates on loans, as well as levying fines and penalties on consumer loans taken before 2017. However, it is not entirely clear why these loans had to be taken before 2017. Who lobbied for this norm? But that's not the point. The bottom line is that we are again taking half-hearted measures that will not lead to global changes in the Ukrainian economy and its growth," the expert emphasizes.
According to him, again, both the government and the president act without thinking a few steps forward. Although now is the moment to give businesses and people an impetus – the time has come for big changes. The world will never be the same; there is a global redistribution of markets. Ukraine must find its rightful place on the world map.
"The economic crisis, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, is not only a problem, but also an opportunity for fundamental and profound changes in the system of government, management, interaction of regions with the center, citizen participation in the organization and control of power, as well as creating conditions for industrial development, entrepreneurship, attracting investment, and developing the economy as a whole. Now all the flaws of the Ukrainian state are crystallizing and looking much brighter. In times of danger, the instinct of self-preservation and resistance to challenges is exacerbated. In the first days when coronavirus cases started emerging in Ukraine, businesses demonstrated just that. Support headquarters were organized, funds were allocated to help medical facilities, procure and deliver necessary equipment, protective gear, etc. Had the president come out with these theses to people and parliament and proposed to unite around the creation of such a comprehensive program, I think he wouldn't have had to go and convince deputies to vote for some bills. Still, thanks for at least slightly loosening the noose on the neck of businesses and citizens," the expert summed up.
This is just the beginning
The Cabinet is well aware of all the problems for the economy caused by the acceleration of a new wave of economic crisis. The government understands that Ukrainians and businesses cannot actually stay idle without making money for too long. Therefore, several options have already been developed to bring the economy out of strict quarantine.
"There is a question – after the Easter holidays, we must understand when we will come to positive dynamics on the disease, and after that we'll see what we can do. We have developed and are now calculating several scenarios. A scenario, for example, of China – with a short-term, but very severe restrictions. There is a milder scenario, but with very strict compliance with sanitary and hygienic requirements, that is, face masks, social distancing, and so on. All these scenarios are being worked out. I'm sure that in just a few days we will present them and talk about how we move on," said Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.
Many points of assistance for both businesses and citizens are described in the bill on amendments to the state budget 2020, which the deputies sent for revision. Shmyhal assures that in a week, the draft will be adopted. And then it will be possible to implement a set of measures to prevent the collapse of the Ukrainian economy.
Nana Chornaya


unian--2020-04-01--National Bank not ready to lift restrictions on Ukraine's forex market

The NBU has no plans to introduce any additional limits .
Deputy Governor of the National Bank of Ukraine ( @ @ @ @ @ the regulator is not ready to lift restrictions on the forex market in the near @ @ @ @ @ of cooperation with the International Monetary Fund ( IMF ) , awaiting further macroeconomic stabilization @ @ @ @ @ how the macroeconomic situation will be developing .
If it is favorable , we will @ @ @ @ @ said amid an online meeting with the NBU management organized by the European Business Association @ @ @ @ @ 1 .
Churiy explained that a stable macroeconomic situation was required to have cooperation with @ @ @ @ @ key lender , resumed .
At the same time , he emphasized that the NBU @ @ @ @ @ any additional restrictions .
`` We want to overcome this crisis without introducing any [ @ @ @ @ @ '' he added .

National Bank not ready to lift restrictions on Ukraine's forex market
17:40, 01.04.20 2387
The NBU has no plans to introduce any additional limits.
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unian--2020-04-01--Experts: No prerequisites for grain deficit in Ukraine

Analysts expect no rise in grain prices this season despite the global coronavirus pandemic .
The Ukrainian Grain Association ( UGA ) has said there are no prerequisites for grain shortages in Ukraine in 2020 , as the country annually consumes about a third of its total grain harvest ( 25-30 million tonnes ) for domestic needs , while the remaining two-thirds of the harvest is exported .
`` The UGA is convinced that there are no prerequisites for grain shortages on the domestic market .
In fact , more than enough grain remains on the market .
Ukraine had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] .
UGA experts say the country this year is expected to gather over 94 million tonnes of grain and oilseeds , which is in line with the last three years ' trend , that is , harvesting over 90 million tonnes , '' the Association 's press service said on March 31 .
Experts say shipments of Ukrainian grain and oilseeds abroad by the end of the marketing year ( MY ) may reach 60 million tonnes due to a record high harvest at 92 million tonnes this MY .
At the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in grain prices this season despite the global coronavirus pandemic .
`` We do n't expect significant price fluctuations and believe that prices will be consistent with the seasonal trend .
Grain shortages are not expected worldwide .
According to forecasts by the International Grains Council , the yield in the new season will reach 2.22 billion tonnes , which is 2.2 % up on the forecast for the world harvest of the current season , '' the report said .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Ukraine in 2019 harvested 75.1 million tonnes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tonnes up on the figure reported in 2018 , according to the Ukrainian Economic Development , Trade and Agriculture Ministry .
In particular , Ukrainian farmers gathered 28.3 million tonnes of wheat ( 15 % up ) , 35.8 million tonnes of maize for grain ( 0.1 % up ) , and 8.9 million tonnes of barley ( 21.2 % up ) .
Ukraine harvested 14.6 million tonnes of sunflower seeds and 3.3 million tonnes of rapeseed in 2019 .

Experts: No prerequisites for grain deficit in Ukraine
16:40, 01.04.20 2520
Analysts expect no rise in grain prices this season despite the global coronavirus pandemic.
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unian--2020-04-01--Kremlin not planning to postpone Victory Parade in Moscow despite COVID-19 spread

A video was posted showing the parade rehearsal in Moscow where nearly 15,000 Russian troops are seen standing in close ranks without any protective gear .
Russian President Vladimir Putin 's Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov says no decision has been made yet to postpone this year 's Victory Day Parade on Moscow 's Red Square May 9 amid the coronavirus pandemic .
`` No other decisions have been made , the situation is being monitored , '' he said , answering the question on whether the possibility of postponing the parade in the country 's capital against the backdrop of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as reported by an UNIAN correspondent in Russia .
At the same time , a Ukrainian OSINT Group Information Resistance posted a video , apparently showing the parade rehearsal where nearly 15,000 Russian troops are seen standing in close ranks without any protective gear , while a narrator who is shooting a video is mocking the authorities for imposing a limit on gatherings to 50 people and at the same time demonstrating full disregard for the safety of troops .
Russia reported 440 new cases of COVID-19 over the past day .
However @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raised about the plausibility of Russian government stats .

A video was posted showing the parade rehearsal in Moscow where nearly 15,000 Russian troops are seen standing in close ranks without any protective gear.
Russian President Vladimir Putin's Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov says no decision has been made yet to postpone this year's Victory Day Parade on Moscow's Red Square May 9 amid the coronavirus pandemic.
"No other decisions have been made, the situation is being monitored," he said, answering the question on whether the possibility of postponing the parade in the country's capital against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic was being discussed, as reported by an UNIAN correspondent in Russia.
At the same time, a Ukrainian OSINT Group Information Resistance posted a video, apparently showing the parade rehearsal where nearly 15,000 Russian troops are seen standing in close ranks without any protective gear, while a narrator who is shooting a video is mocking the authorities for imposing a limit on gatherings to 50 people and at the same time demonstrating full disregard for the safety of troops.
Warning: strong language (comments in Russian)
Russia reported 440 new cases of COVID-19 over the past day.
However, as reported earlier, concerns were raised about the plausibility of Russian government stats.


unian--2020-04-01--Poll: Over 50% of Ukrainians believe COVID-19 threat "real"

The views of respondents have n't changed much over the past two weeks .
Over 50 % of Ukrainians consider COVID-19 a real threat to themselves and their families , while 41 % think the opposite .
`` The results of the polls show the vast majority of respondents see a real threat of coronavirus spread in Ukraine .
Compared with the start of quarantine , the number of those who realize that the threat is real has increased ( from 73 % to 87 % ) , '' according to a survey conducted by the Rating sociological group .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ consider the threat of coronavirus as `` real '' , personally to themselves and their families , while 41 % have the opposite opinion .
The views of respondents have not changed much on this issue over the past two weeks .
The inhabitants of western and central regions of the country and the townspeople spoke more often about the threat .
Read alsoSome 56 % of citizens see as `` effective '' Zelensky 's response to coronavirus threat – poll According to the survey , assessing the coronavirus incidence in Ukraine on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ respondents rated it as very high or high , 34 % as medium , and 32 % as low or minimal .
Residents of the country 's south , urban populations , and representatives of the older age category spoke more often about a high incidence rate .
`` Assessing the situation with the incidence rate in their region , respondents consider it less threatening than in the country as a whole .
For example , only 13 % of respondents said the incidence rate in their area is high , 65 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The latter opinion prevails among residents of eastern regions and rural areas , '' the survey said .
The poll was conducted with the use of the CATI method ( computer-assisted telephone interviews ) based on a random selection of mobile phone numbers in two waves : the first on March 25-27 , and the second on March 28-30 among population aged 18 and older .
The sample is representative of age , gender , region and type of settlement .
The sample frame is the following : the first wave – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1,000 respondents .
The margin of error is no more than 4 % .

The views of respondents haven't changed much over the past two weeks.
Over 50% of Ukrainians consider COVID-19 a real threat to themselves and their families, while 41% think the opposite.
"The results of the polls show the vast majority of respondents see a real threat of coronavirus spread in Ukraine. Compared with the start of quarantine, the number of those who realize that the threat is real has increased (from 73% to 87%)," according to a survey conducted by the Rating sociological group.
In particular, 51% of respondents consider the threat of coronavirus as "real", personally to themselves and their families, while 41% have the opposite opinion.
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The views of respondents have not changed much on this issue over the past two weeks. The inhabitants of western and central regions of the country and the townspeople spoke more often about the threat.
Read alsoSome 56% of citizens see as "effective" Zelensky's response to coronavirus threat – poll
According to the survey, assessing the coronavirus incidence in Ukraine on a 5-point scale, 28% of respondents rated it as very high or high, 34% as medium, and 32% as low or minimal. Residents of the country's south, urban populations, and representatives of the older age category spoke more often about a high incidence rate.
"Assessing the situation with the incidence rate in their region, respondents consider it less threatening than in the country as a whole. For example, only 13% of respondents said the incidence rate in their area is high, 65% consider it to be low or minimal. The latter opinion prevails among residents of eastern regions and rural areas," the survey said.
The poll was conducted with the use of the CATI method (computer-assisted telephone interviews) based on a random selection of mobile phone numbers in two waves: the first on March 25-27, and the second on March 28-30 among population aged 18 and older. The sample is representative of age, gender, region and type of settlement. The sample frame is the following: the first wave – 1,000 respondents, the second wave – 1,000 respondents. The margin of error is no more than 4%.


unian--2020-04-01--Expert: Coronavirus may retreat in summer, but activate in autumn again

People are most likely to contract a virus by touching contaminated surfaces , the doctor explains .
Head of Influenza Reference Laboratory at Kyiv-based Institute of Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases , Alla Myronenko , says the coronavirus , like other respiratory pathogens , may retreat in the summer , while it may further 'flare up ' again in the autumn , albeit in a less aggressive form .
`` The seasonality of respiratory viruses , including coronavirus , remains within colder periods , not summer .
Therefore , Covid-19 is expected to subside in summer not only here [ in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ countries where it will be warm .
It will be spreading in countries where colder temperatures will prevail in the forthcoming summer season .
The coronavirus wo n't fully let go as it will return in autumn .
In terms of its biological capacity , it should become less aggressive , as always happens with viruses , '' she told the Ukrainian online news outlet Obozrevatel on April 1 .
Read alsoNumber of confirmed coronavirus cases in Ukraine rises to 669 by Wednesday morning Myronenko says people are most likely to contract a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also advises that people maintain social distancing and keep at least a meter off of each other in public .

People are most likely to contract a virus by touching contaminated surfaces, the doctor explains.
Head of Influenza Reference Laboratory at Kyiv-based Institute of Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases, Alla Myronenko, says the coronavirus, like other respiratory pathogens, may retreat in the summer, while it may further 'flare up' again in the autumn, albeit in a less aggressive form.
"The seasonality of respiratory viruses, including coronavirus, remains within colder periods, not summer. Therefore, Covid-19 is expected to subside in summer not only here [in Ukraine], but also in other countries where it will be warm. It will be spreading in countries where colder temperatures will prevail in the forthcoming summer season. The coronavirus won't fully let go as it will return in autumn. In terms of its biological capacity, it should become less aggressive, as always happens with viruses," she told the Ukrainian online news outlet Obozrevatel on April 1.
Read alsoNumber of confirmed coronavirus cases in Ukraine rises to 669 by Wednesday morning
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Myronenko says people are most likely to contract a virus by touching contaminated surfaces. She also advises that people maintain social distancing and keep at least a meter off of each other in public.