unian--2020-01-05--Dozens killed in attack on military academy in Libya's Tripoli – media

Forces allied with the GNA described Saturday 's attack as 'an aerial bombing ' launched by their eastern rivals .
@ @ @ @ @ been killed in an attack on a military academy in the Libyan capital , the @ @ @ @ @ government said .
Read alsoReuters : Trump vows to hit 52 Iranian targets if Iran @ @ @ @ @ An air raid on the military school of Tripoli killed 28 cadets and injured dozens @ @ @ @ @ , spokesman for the health ministry of the United Nations-recognised Government of National Accord ( @ @ @ @ @ Saturday , according to Al Jazeera .
At the time of the attack , the @ @ @ @ @ parade ground before going to their dormitories , he added .
Forces allied with the @ @ @ @ @ on the military camp at Al-Hadhba as `` an aerial bombing '' launched by their @ @ @

Forces allied with the GNA described Saturday's attack as 'an aerial bombing' launched by their eastern rivals.
At least 28 people have been killed in an attack on a military academy in the Libyan capital, the health minister of the Tripoli-based government said.
Read alsoReuters: Trump vows to hit 52 Iranian targets if Iran retaliates after drone strike
"An air raid on the military school of Tripoli killed 28 cadets and injured dozens more," Amin al-Hashemi, spokesman for the health ministry of the United Nations-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA), said on Saturday, according to Al Jazeera.
Видео дня
At the time of the attack, the cadets were gathered on a parade ground before going to their dormitories, he added.
Forces allied with the GNA described Saturday's attack on the military camp at Al-Hadhba as "an aerial bombing" launched by their eastern rivals.


unian--2020-01-05--Metropolitan Epifaniy: Orthodox Church of Ukraine in occupied Donbas active in underground

The metropolitan added there were few priests who remained in the occupied part of Donbas .
Metropolitan of Kyiv and @ @ @ @ @ the Orthodox Church of Ukraine ( OCU ) Epifaniy ( Epiphanius ) has said the @ @ @ @ @ occupied Donbas in active in the underground .
Read alsoUkraine church leader Epifaniy : Zelensky @ @ @ @ @ recipe '' for ending Donbas war '' Our church is active in the underground there @ @ @ @ @ hold church services , '' he told Radio Liberty 's Ukrainian service in an interview @ @ @ @ @ were few priests who remained in the occupied part of Donbas .
They are called @ @ @ @ @ and forced to re-register .
`` We will not re-register , according to the Russian @ @ @ @ @ so-called 'legislation ' of the 'republics . '
They are trying to force the local @ @ @ @ @ , priests are leaving this territory , '' Epifaniy said .

The metropolitan added there were few priests who remained in the occupied part of Donbas.
Metropolitan of Kyiv and All Ukraine, Primate of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) Epifaniy (Epiphanius) has said the Orthodox Church of Ukraine in occupied Donbas in active in the underground.
Read alsoUkraine church leader Epifaniy: Zelensky must find "formula or recipe" for ending Donbas war
"Our church is active in the underground there. We cannot officially hold church services," he told Radio Liberty's Ukrainian service in an interview.
Видео дня
The metropolitan added there were few priests who remained in the occupied part of Donbas. They are called for interrogations, threatened, and forced to re-register.
"We will not re-register, according to the Russian legislation or according to the so-called 'legislation' of the 'republics.' They are trying to force the local clergy to re-register, intimidate, priests are leaving this territory," Epifaniy said.


unian--2020-01-05--Ukrainian soldier killed, another injured as their car hits landmine in Donbas

An investigation team is working at the scene , finding out all the circumstances of the incident .
One Ukrainian @ @ @ @ @ another one has been injured when their car hit a landmine in Donbas , eastern @ @ @ @ @ four enemy attacks in Donbas , two injured in booby-trap blast Saturday '' Today , @ @ @ @ @ village of Khutir Vilny , a GAZ-66 truck of one of the units of the @ @ @ @ @ support measures hit an unknown explosive device ( probably a TM-62 anti-tank landmine ) , @ @ @ @ @ killed and another was seriously injured , '' the press center of the Joint Forces @ @ @ @ @ on January 5 .
An investigation team is working at the scene , finding out @ @ @ @ @ incident .
The command of the Joint Forces have expressed condolences to relatives of the @ @ @

An investigation team is working at the scene, finding out all the circumstances of the incident.
One Ukrainian soldier has been killed and another one has been injured when their car hit a landmine in Donbas, eastern Ukraine.
Read alsoUkraine reports four enemy attacks in Donbas, two injured in booby-trap blast Saturday
"Today, January 5, near the village of Khutir Vilny, a GAZ-66 truck of one of the units of the Joint Forces carrying out logistical support measures hit an unknown explosive device (probably a TM-62 anti-tank landmine), resulting in one soldier was killed and another was seriously injured," the press center of the Joint Forces Operation Headquarters wrote on Facebook on January 5.
Видео дня
An investigation team is working at the scene, finding out all the circumstances of the incident.
The command of the Joint Forces have expressed condolences to relatives of the deceased soldier.


unian--2020-01-05--Italy: Car rams into crowd, killing several German tourists – media

The tourists , all young people , were standing along the side of a road when the vehicle truck them .
A car plowed into a group of 17 young tourists overnight near a popular ski resort town in northern Italy 's South Tyrol province on Sunday , killing at least six people .
Italian police said they believed those killed were Germans part of a tour group in the region .
Several others were injured , some seriously .
The tourists , all young people , were standing along the side of a road when the vehicle truck them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shot dead after killing one , injuring others in Paris A police spokesperson said the driver of the car , 27 , failed a breath test for alcohol and has been arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter .
Authorities said they do not believe the crash was intentional and an investigation is underway .
Germany 's Foreign Office in Berlin did not comment on the incident .
Luttach , or Lutago in Italian , is a small town near the Austrian border that is popular for skiing and other winter sports .
Around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the incident .
Last weekend , three Germans were killed in an avalanche in South Tyrol .
Five people were under investigation for the deadly avalanche accident .

The tourists, all young people, were standing along the side of a road when the vehicle truck them.
A car plowed into a group of 17 young tourists overnight near a popular ski resort town in northern Italy's South Tyrol province on Sunday, killing at least six people.
Italian police said they believed those killed were Germans part of a tour group in the region. Several others were injured, some seriously. The tourists, all young people, were standing along the side of a road when the vehicle truck them, DW wrote.
Read alsoKnife-wielding attacker shot dead after killing one, injuring others in Paris
Видео дня
A police spokesperson said the driver of the car, 27, failed a breath test for alcohol and has been arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter.
Authorities said they do not believe the crash was intentional and an investigation is underway.
Germany's Foreign Office in Berlin did not comment on the incident.
Luttach, or Lutago in Italian, is a small town near the Austrian border that is popular for skiing and other winter sports.
Around 160 rescuers responded to the scene after the incident.
Last weekend, three Germans were killed in an avalanche in South Tyrol. Five people were under investigation for the deadly avalanche accident.


unian--2020-01-05--Ex-top U.S. diplomat in Ukraine tells how U.S. army learns from Ukrainian one

The U.S. military learns from Ukrainian soldiers and officers about Russian tactics , Russian military equipment , and the ways @ @ @ @ @ to Ukraine .
Former U.S. Chargé d'Affaires a.i .
in Ukraine William Taylor has said @ @ @ @ @ with the Armed Forces of Ukraine and learns how to confront the Russian invaders .
@ @ @ @ @ Ukrainian TSN TV news service , he said the U.S. military learns from Ukrainian soldiers @ @ @ @ @ , Russian military equipment , and the ways how Russians deliver this equipment to Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ the experience gained by U.S. troops in Ukraine will be an advantage for them in @ @ @ @ @ Russia .
The diplomat said that thanks to the Ukrainians , the U.S. military understood @ @ @ @ @ artillery , how to wage an information war : to study the influence of Russian @ @ @ @ @ civilians , media and decision-making .

The U.S. military learns from Ukrainian soldiers and officers about Russian tactics, Russian military equipment, and the ways how Russians deliver this equipment to Ukraine.
Former U.S. Chargé d'Affaires a.i. in Ukraine William Taylor has said the U.S. army works closely with the Armed Forces of Ukraine and learns how to confront the Russian invaders.
Read alsoKristina Kvien appointed U.S. Chargé d'Affaires a.i. in Ukraine
In an interview to the Ukrainian TSN TV news service, he said the U.S. military learns from Ukrainian soldiers and officers about Russian tactics, Russian military equipment, and the ways how Russians deliver this equipment to Ukraine.
Видео дня
According to Taylor, the experience gained by U.S. troops in Ukraine will be an advantage for them in case of a war with Russia.
The diplomat said that thanks to the Ukrainians, the U.S. military understood how to fight drones and artillery, how to wage an information war: to study the influence of Russian disinformation on the military, civilians, media and decision-making.


unian--2020-01-05--Reuters: Trump vows to hit 52 Iranian targets if Iran retaliates after drone strike

Trump did not identify the sites .
U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday threatened to hit 52 Iranian sites `` very hard '' if Iran attacks Americans or U.S. assets after a drone strike that killed Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani and an Iraqi militia leader , as tens of thousands of people marched in Iraq to mourn their deaths .
Showing no signs of seeking to ease tensions raised by the strike he ordered that killed Soleimani and Iranian-backed Iraqi militia leader Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis at Baghdad airport on Friday , Trump issued a threat to Iran on Twitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of wider conflict in the Middle East , as reported by Reuters .
Iran , Trump wrote , `` is talking very boldly about targeting certain USA assets '' in revenge for Soleimanihs death .
Trump said the United States has `` targeted 52 Iranian sites '' and that some were `` at a very high level & important to Iran & the Iranian culture , and those targets , and Iran itself , WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD . ''
`` The USA wants no more threats ! ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ targets represented the 52 Americans who were held hostage in Iran for 444 days after being seized at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran in November 1979 – an enduring sore spot in U.S.-Iranian relations .
Trump did not identify the sites .
The Pentagon referred questions about the matter to the White House , which did not immediately respond to a request for comment .
Among the mourners in Iraq included many militiamen in uniform for whom Muhandis and Soleimani were heroes .
They carried portraits of both men and plastered them on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ procession .
Chants of `` Death to America '' and `` No Israel '' rang out .
On Saturday evening , a rocket fell inside Baghdad 's heavily fortified Green Zone near the U.S. Embassy , another hit the nearby Jadriya neighborhood and two more were fired at the Balad air base north of the city , but no one was killed , Iraq 's military said .
There was no immediate claim of responsibility .
Read alsoGeneral Suleimani 's killing may lead to war between U.S. , Iran – media Trump referenced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ targets after a senior Iranian Revolutionary Guards commander had also mentioned a specific number of American targets – 35 of them – for possible retaliatory attacks in response to Soleimani 's killing .
General Gholamali Abuhamzeh was quoted by Tasnim news agency as saying late on Friday that Iran will punish Americans wherever they are within reach of the Islamic Republic , and raised the prospect of attacks on ships in the Gulf .
`` The Strait of Hormuz is a vital point for the West and a large number of American destroyers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ American targets in the region have been identified by Iran since long time ago .
...
Some 35 U.S. targets in the region as well as Tel Aviv are within our reach , '' he was quoted as saying .
Iraq 's Kataib Hezbollah militia warned Iraqi security forces to stay away from U.S. bases in Iraq , `` by a distance not less than a thousand meters ( six-tenths of a mile ) starting Sunday evening , '' reported Lebanese al-Mayadeen TV , which is close to Lebanon 's Hezbollah .
Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` imminent and sinister '' attacks on American diplomats and military personnel .
Democratic critics said the Republican president 's action was reckless and risked more bloodshed in a dangerous region .

Trump did not identify the sites.
U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday threatened to hit 52 Iranian sites "very hard" if Iran attacks Americans or U.S. assets after a drone strike that killed Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani and an Iraqi militia leader, as tens of thousands of people marched in Iraq to mourn their deaths.
Showing no signs of seeking to ease tensions raised by the strike he ordered that killed Soleimani and Iranian-backed Iraqi militia leader Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis at Baghdad airport on Friday, Trump issued a threat to Iran on Twitter. The strike has raised the specter of wider conflict in the Middle East, as reported by Reuters.
Iran, Trump wrote, "is talking very boldly about targeting certain USA assets" in revenge for Soleimanihs death. Trump said the United States has "targeted 52 Iranian sites" and that some were "at a very high level & important to Iran & the Iranian culture, and those targets, and Iran itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD."
Видео дня
Read alsoU.S. Embassy urges its citizens to depart Iraq immediately
"The USA wants no more threats!" Trump said, adding that the 52 targets represented the 52 Americans who were held hostage in Iran for 444 days after being seized at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran in November 1979 – an enduring sore spot in U.S.-Iranian relations.
Trump did not identify the sites. The Pentagon referred questions about the matter to the White House, which did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Among the mourners in Iraq included many militiamen in uniform for whom Muhandis and Soleimani were heroes. They carried portraits of both men and plastered them on walls and armored personnel carriers in the procession. Chants of "Death to America" and "No Israel" rang out.
On Saturday evening, a rocket fell inside Baghdad's heavily fortified Green Zone near the U.S. Embassy, another hit the nearby Jadriya neighborhood and two more were fired at the Balad air base north of the city, but no one was killed, Iraq's military said. There was no immediate claim of responsibility.
Read alsoGeneral Suleimani's killing may lead to war between U.S., Iran – media
Trump referenced an unusually specific number of potential Iranian targets after a senior Iranian Revolutionary Guards commander had also mentioned a specific number of American targets – 35 of them – for possible retaliatory attacks in response to Soleimani's killing.
General Gholamali Abuhamzeh was quoted by Tasnim news agency as saying late on Friday that Iran will punish Americans wherever they are within reach of the Islamic Republic, and raised the prospect of attacks on ships in the Gulf.
"The Strait of Hormuz is a vital point for the West and a large number of American destroyers and warships cross there. ... Vital American targets in the region have been identified by Iran since long time ago. ... Some 35 U.S. targets in the region as well as Tel Aviv are within our reach," he was quoted as saying.
Iraq's Kataib Hezbollah militia warned Iraqi security forces to stay away from U.S. bases in Iraq, "by a distance not less than a thousand meters (six-tenths of a mile) starting Sunday evening," reported Lebanese al-Mayadeen TV, which is close to Lebanon's Hezbollah.
Trump said on Friday Soleimani had been plotting "imminent and sinister" attacks on American diplomats and military personnel. Democratic critics said the Republican president's action was reckless and risked more bloodshed in a dangerous region.


unian--2020-01-05--Ukraine reports four enemy attacks in Donbas, two injured in booby-trap blast Saturday

Since Sunday midnight , Russia-led forces have been observing the ceasefire .
Russia 's hybrid military forces on January 4 @ @ @ @ @ army positions in Donbas , eastern Ukraine , with two Ukrainian soldiers reported as injured @ @ @ @ @ `` The armed forces of the Russian Federation and their mercenaries violated the ceasefire four @ @ @ @ @ Two Ukrainian soldiers were injured in a booby-trap blast , '' the press center of @ @ @ @ @ said on Facebook in a morning update on January 5 .
The enemy opened fire @ @ @ @ @ types , heavy machine guns , and small arms .
Under attack came Ukrainian positions @ @ @ @ @ , and the villages of Verkhniotoretske , Vodiane , and Novoluhanske .
Since Sunday midnight @ @ @ @ @ observing the ceasefire .

Since Sunday midnight, Russia-led forces have been observing the ceasefire.
Russia's hybrid military forces on January 4 mounted four attacks on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, with two Ukrainian soldiers reported as injured in a booby-trap blast.
Read alsoHouse burnt amid brawl between local militants, Russian mercenaries in Donbas – intel
"The armed forces of the Russian Federation and their mercenaries violated the ceasefire four times on January 4. Two Ukrainian soldiers were injured in a booby-trap blast," the press center of the Joint Forces Operation Headquarters said on Facebook in a morning update on January 5.
Видео дня
The enemy opened fire from grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and small arms.
Under attack came Ukrainian positions near the town of Avdiyivka, and the villages of Verkhniotoretske, Vodiane, and Novoluhanske.
Since Sunday midnight, Russia-led forces have been observing the ceasefire.


unian--2020-01-04--Ukraine receives Gazprom's payment for gas transit in full – Ukrainian GTS operator

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

Ukraine receives Gazprom's payment for gas transit in full – Ukrainian GTS operator
23:47, 04.01.20 4537
The money is already in the accounts of the Ukrainian GTS operator, as the services are provided on a prepayment basis.
Помогите проекту
Support us


unian--2020-01-04--CNN: There's a fire in Australia the size of Manhattan

Weather conditions are deteriorating rapidly on Saturday , with the country 's Bureau of Meteorology warning that winds are picking up and temperatures increasing .
Three fires have combined to form a single blaze bigger than the New York borough of Manhattan , as Australian firefighters battle what has been predicted to be the most catastrophic day yet in an already devastating bushfire season .
The fires joined overnight in the Omeo region in Victoria state , creating a 6,000-hectare ( 23 square mile ) blaze , according to Gippsland 's Department of Environment , Land , Water and Planning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ South Wales state , a fire in the Wollondilly region south of the capital Sydney remains `` out of control , '' according to the Rural Fire Service .
It has burned 264,000 hectares ( 1,020 square miles ) of land in recent months .
Weather conditions are deteriorating rapidly on Saturday , with the country 's Bureau of Meteorology warning that winds are picking up and temperatures increasing .
`` Today will be a day of severe to extreme fire danger through many districts , '' the bureau said .
The country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heat record of 80 years , reaching 44 degrees Celsius ( 111 degrees Fahrenheit ) on Saturday afternoon , according to the meteorology bureau .
In the western Sydney suburb of Penrith , the mercury climbed to 48.9 degrees Celsius ( 120 degrees Fahrenheit ) – setting a new record for the whole Sydney basin .
The death toll is rising as conditions worsen – Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Saturday that 23 people had been killed nationwide , up from 18 from earlier in the week .
More than 1,500 homes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season began in September .
Victoria has declared a state of disaster and NSW has declared a state of emergency – both granting extraordinary powers and additional government resources to battle the fires .
It marked the first time VIctoria has activated these powers since the 2009 Black Saturday fires , the deadliest bushfire disaster on record in Australia with 173 people killed and 500 injured .
On Saturday , Morrison announced the deployment of up to 3,000 Australian Defense Force Reserve troops to affected states .
Four planes will also be leased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while the navy 's largest ship , HMAS Adelaide , will be mobilized to evacuate citizens along the coast .

Weather conditions are deteriorating rapidly on Saturday, with the country's Bureau of Meteorology warning that winds are picking up and temperatures increasing.
Three fires have combined to form a single blaze bigger than the New York borough of Manhattan, as Australian firefighters battle what has been predicted to be the most catastrophic day yet in an already devastating bushfire season.
The fires joined overnight in the Omeo region in Victoria state, creating a 6,000-hectare (23 square mile) blaze, according to Gippsland's Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, CNN reported.
Read alsoLast five years hottest on record: UN report
Видео дня
In neighboring New South Wales state, a fire in the Wollondilly region south of the capital Sydney remains "out of control," according to the Rural Fire Service. It has burned 264,000 hectares (1,020 square miles) of land in recent months.
Weather conditions are deteriorating rapidly on Saturday, with the country's Bureau of Meteorology warning that winds are picking up and temperatures increasing. "Today will be a day of severe to extreme fire danger through many districts," the bureau said.
The country's capital, Canberra, smashed its heat record of 80 years, reaching 44 degrees Celsius (111 degrees Fahrenheit) on Saturday afternoon, according to the meteorology bureau. In the western Sydney suburb of Penrith, the mercury climbed to 48.9 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit) – setting a new record for the whole Sydney basin.
The death toll is rising as conditions worsen – Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Saturday that 23 people had been killed nationwide, up from 18 from earlier in the week. More than 1,500 homes have also been destroyed since the fire season began in September.
Victoria has declared a state of disaster and NSW has declared a state of emergency – both granting extraordinary powers and additional government resources to battle the fires.
It marked the first time VIctoria has activated these powers since the 2009 Black Saturday fires, the deadliest bushfire disaster on record in Australia with 173 people killed and 500 injured.
On Saturday, Morrison announced the deployment of up to 3,000 Australian Defense Force Reserve troops to affected states. Four planes will also be leased by the government to provide water bombing, while the navy's largest ship, HMAS Adelaide, will be mobilized to evacuate citizens along the coast.


unian--2020-01-04--Lutkovskaya on Donbas prisoner swap: Russia refused to swap Ukrainian military without return of ex-

Lutkovskaya on Donbas prisoner swap: Russia refused to swap Ukrainian military without return of ex-Berkut troops

About 300 Ukrainians are still illegally held in captivity in the temporarily occupied areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions , the official says .
Ukraine 's Representative in the humanitarian subgroup of the Trilateral Contact Group for the Donbas settlement Valeria Lutkovska says Russia refused to return Ukrainian military without extradition of ex-Berkut troops , suspects in the Maidan shooting case , in the latest exchange of held persons between Ukraine and the Russian-controlled occupation administrations in Donbas .
Read alsoZelensky : If I had 100 Berkut police troops , I would swap them all for just one intel operative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a group of three , sentenced to life for committing a deadly terror attack in Kharkiv in 2015 ] and [ a group of ] the ex-Berkut riot police troops had been on the exchange lists , if I am not mistaken , since 2015-2016 .
In December 2017 , it was decided that the said persons were not related to the conflict [ in Donbas ] , and they would not be released as a result of this procedure [ the prisoner swap ] , '' she told UA : Ukrainian Radio @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Kremlin said that Donbas militants would not release and return Ukrainian special forces who were captured in the self-proclaimed `` Donetsk and Luhansk People 's Republics '' ( `` DPR '' / '' LPR '' ) in eastern Ukraine .
`` Accordingly , we left at least five of our guys there for two long years that were required for the next rounds of negotiations , which were finally successful , '' the official added .
According to Lutkovska , about 300 Ukrainians are still illegally held in captivity in the temporarily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We have documents that confirm illegal detention of 101 people .
However , we have no documents related to about 200 persons , except for information from their relatives , '' she added .
As UNIAN reported earlier , on December 29 , an exchange of held persons between the Ukrainian side and the representatives of Russia-controlled occupation administrations in Donetsk and Luhansk regions was held at the Mayorske checkpoint .
Seventy-six people were returned to Ukraine in exchange for 124 persons detained in Ukraine , according to the agreed swap @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Ukraine handed over a group of the Berkut riot police troops , indicted on charges of mass killings during protests at the Maidan in 2014 : Oleh Yanishevsky , Serhiy Zinchenko , Pavlo Abroskin , Serhiy Tamtur , and Oleksandr Marinchenko .
A day before the swap , the court released the said men from custody on personal recognizance , which sparked mixed reactions among Ukrainian citizens .

About 300 Ukrainians are still illegally held in captivity in the temporarily occupied areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, the official says.
Ukraine's Representative in the humanitarian subgroup of the Trilateral Contact Group for the Donbas settlement Valeria Lutkovska says Russia refused to return Ukrainian military without extradition of ex-Berkut troops, suspects in the Maidan shooting case, in the latest exchange of held persons between Ukraine and the Russian-controlled occupation administrations in Donbas.
Read alsoZelensky: If I had 100 Berkut police troops, I would swap them all for just one intel operative
"Both the 'Kharkiv group' [a group of three, sentenced to life for committing a deadly terror attack in Kharkiv in 2015] and [a group of] the ex-Berkut riot police troops had been on the exchange lists, if I am not mistaken, since 2015-2016. In December 2017, it was decided that the said persons were not related to the conflict [in Donbas], and they would not be released as a result of this procedure [the prisoner swap]," she told UA: Ukrainian Radio on January 3.
Видео дня
In turn, the Kremlin said that Donbas militants would not release and return Ukrainian special forces who were captured in the self-proclaimed "Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics" ("DPR"/"LPR") in eastern Ukraine.
"Accordingly, we left at least five of our guys there for two long years that were required for the next rounds of negotiations, which were finally successful," the official added.
According to Lutkovska, about 300 Ukrainians are still illegally held in captivity in the temporarily occupied areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
"We have documents that confirm illegal detention of 101 people. However, we have no documents related to about 200 persons, except for information from their relatives," she added.
As UNIAN reported earlier, on December 29, an exchange of held persons between the Ukrainian side and the representatives of Russia-controlled occupation administrations in Donetsk and Luhansk regions was held at the Mayorske checkpoint. Seventy-six people were returned to Ukraine in exchange for 124 persons detained in Ukraine, according to the agreed swap lists.
As part of the exchange, Ukraine handed over a group of the Berkut riot police troops, indicted on charges of mass killings during protests at the Maidan in 2014: Oleh Yanishevsky, Serhiy Zinchenko, Pavlo Abroskin, Serhiy Tamtur, and Oleksandr Marinchenko. A day before the swap, the court released the said men from custody on personal recognizance, which sparked mixed reactions among Ukrainian citizens.


unian--2020-01-04--White House withholds 20 emails between two Trump aides on Ukraine aid – media

It contends the release of the documents sought by The Times , would `` inhibit the frank and candid exchange of views '' in government decision-making .
The Trump administration disclosed on Friday that there were 20 emails between a top aide to President Trump 's acting chief of staff and a colleague at the White House 's Office of Management and Budget discussing the freeze of a congressionally mandated military aid package for Ukraine .
But in response to a court order that it swiftly process those pages in response to a the Center for Public Integrity and Just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by The New York Times , the Office of Management and Budget delivered a terse letter saying it would not turn over any of the 40 pages of emails — not even with redactions , The New York Times reports .
Read alsoU.S .
Democrats push for witnesses at Trump impeachment trial after release of emails '' All 20 documents are being withheld in full , '' wrote Dionne Hardy , the office 's Freedom of Information Act officer .
The Times 's information act request sought email messages between Robert Blair , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ acting chief of staff , Mick Mulvaney , and Michael Duffey , an official in the White House 's Office of Management and Budget who was in charge of handling the process for releasing US $ 391 million in weapons and security assistance Congress had appropriated to help Ukraine resist Russian aggression .
In her letter , Ms. Hardy cited exemptions to the Freedom of Information Act for correspondence involving the president 's staff and internal policy deliberations , suggesting that the disclosure of this material would `` inhibit the frank and candid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effective government decision-making . ''
David McCraw , a lawyer for The Times , said the newspaper would challenge the blanket withholding of the documents and would ask the judge overseeing the lawsuit , Judge Amy Berman Jackson , to approve an expedited schedule for briefs and arguments given the urgent public interest in learning more about the dispute .
The heart of the accusation against Mr. Trump is that he abused his official powers , including withholding a promised White House meeting and congressionally mandated military aid , in an attempt to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that could deliver personal political benefits to Mr. Trump .
In October , the Democratic-led House Intelligence Committee had also subpoenaed the Office of Management and Budget for all Ukraine-related documents , but the White House refused to produce them .
It also instructed several key current and former officials with inside knowledge of the episode not to testify .
Read alsoTrump calls on Merkel , Macron to put up more money to Ukraine Senator Chuck Schumer of New York , the Democratic leader , has portrayed Mr. Blair and Mr. Duffey as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believes the Senate should call in Mr. Trump 's impeachment trial , along with Mr. Mulvaney and John R. Bolton , Mr. Trump 's former national security adviser .
Senator Mitch McConnell , Republican of Kentucky and the majority leader , has expressed opposition to calling witnesses and again criticized the House investigation on Friday .
The Trump administration 's move to withhold all the emails in full — not even disclosing the dates they were sent , or the shape of paragraphs covered by black lines — is a step beyond its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emails it released in response to another Freedom of Information Act lawsuit brought by the Center for Public Integrity .
The documents released to the center consisted of about 300 pages of emails between the Office of Management and Budget and the Pentagon about the Ukraine aid package .
While the officially released version was heavily redacted — and the center is contesting the censorship in further litigation — the visible portions showed , among other things , that Pentagon officials had worried that holding the funds could be an illegal impoundment .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ policy website Just Security added further fuel to the controversy by revealing what was under some , but not all , of the deletions .
The website said it had been shown some of the emails in unredacted form , including an Aug. 30 message from Mr. Duffey to a Pentagon budget official stating that there was `` clear direction from POTUS '' — an acronym referring to the president of the United States — `` to continue to hold '' the Ukraine military assistance .
The Times separately reported this week that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expect Congress to become unhinged '' if the White House went ahead with the hold on the aid .
Earlier on Friday , Mr. Schumer went to the Senate floor to praise the reporting by The Times , the Center for Public Integrity and Just Security as an additional reason for the Senate , as part of Mr. Trump 's trial , to seek documents and testimony that the White House had blocked House impeachment investigators from obtaining .
`` What constituted clear direction ? ''
Mr. Schumer asked .
`` Did he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or did someone like Mr. Mulvaney get an order from the president passed on to Mr. Duffey ?
Was there discussion among officials about covering up for the president in delay of military assistance ?
These are questions that can only be answered by examination of the documentary evidence and by the testimony of key Trump administration officials under oath in a Senate trial . ''
At least four collections of emails have now been released , or shared with reporters , detailing correspondence between White House officials and their counterparts at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Defense Department .
Over all , these exchanges show growing tension between the White House and the Pentagon in late August and early September , as Defense Department officials questioned if they would be able to spend all of congressionally appropriated military aid to Ukraine before the deadline at the end of the fiscal year on Sept. 30 .

It contends the release of the documents sought by The Times, would "inhibit the frank and candid exchange of views" in government decision-making.
The Trump administration disclosed on Friday that there were 20 emails between a top aide to President Trump's acting chief of staff and a colleague at the White House's Office of Management and Budget discussing the freeze of a congressionally mandated military aid package for Ukraine.
But in response to a court order that it swiftly process those pages in response to a the Center for Public Integrity and Just Security, or FOIA, lawsuit filed by The New York Times, the Office of Management and Budget delivered a terse letter saying it would not turn over any of the 40 pages of emails — not even with redactions, The New York Times reports.
Read alsoU.S. Democrats push for witnesses at Trump impeachment trial after release of emails
Видео дня
"All 20 documents are being withheld in full," wrote Dionne Hardy, the office's Freedom of Information Act officer.
The Times's information act request sought email messages between Robert Blair, a top aide to Mr. Trump's acting chief of staff, Mick Mulvaney, and Michael Duffey, an official in the White House's Office of Management and Budget who was in charge of handling the process for releasing US$391 million in weapons and security assistance Congress had appropriated to help Ukraine resist Russian aggression.
In her letter, Ms. Hardy cited exemptions to the Freedom of Information Act for correspondence involving the president's staff and internal policy deliberations, suggesting that the disclosure of this material would "inhibit the frank and candid exchange of views that is necessary for effective government decision-making."
David McCraw, a lawyer for The Times, said the newspaper would challenge the blanket withholding of the documents and would ask the judge overseeing the lawsuit, Judge Amy Berman Jackson, to approve an expedited schedule for briefs and arguments given the urgent public interest in learning more about the dispute.
The heart of the accusation against Mr. Trump is that he abused his official powers, including withholding a promised White House meeting and congressionally mandated military aid, in an attempt to coerce Ukraine's president into announcing investigations that could deliver personal political benefits to Mr. Trump.
In October, the Democratic-led House Intelligence Committee had also subpoenaed the Office of Management and Budget for all Ukraine-related documents, but the White House refused to produce them. It also instructed several key current and former officials with inside knowledge of the episode not to testify.
Read alsoTrump calls on Merkel, Macron to put up more money to Ukraine
Senator Chuck Schumer of New York, the Democratic leader, has portrayed Mr. Blair and Mr. Duffey as two of the four key witnesses he believes the Senate should call in Mr. Trump's impeachment trial, along with Mr. Mulvaney and John R. Bolton, Mr. Trump's former national security adviser. Senator Mitch McConnell, Republican of Kentucky and the majority leader, has expressed opposition to calling witnesses and again criticized the House investigation on Friday.
The Trump administration's move to withhold all the emails in full — not even disclosing the dates they were sent, or the shape of paragraphs covered by black lines — is a step beyond its heavy censorship of a related set of emails it released in response to another Freedom of Information Act lawsuit brought by the Center for Public Integrity.
The documents released to the center consisted of about 300 pages of emails between the Office of Management and Budget and the Pentagon about the Ukraine aid package. While the officially released version was heavily redacted — and the center is contesting the censorship in further litigation — the visible portions showed, among other things, that Pentagon officials had worried that holding the funds could be an illegal impoundment.
A report on Thursday by the legal policy website Just Security added further fuel to the controversy by revealing what was under some, but not all, of the deletions. The website said it had been shown some of the emails in unredacted form, including an Aug. 30 message from Mr. Duffey to a Pentagon budget official stating that there was "clear direction from POTUS" — an acronym referring to the president of the United States — "to continue to hold" the Ukraine military assistance.
The Times separately reported this week that Mr. Blair warned Mr. Mulvaney to "expect Congress to become unhinged" if the White House went ahead with the hold on the aid.
Earlier on Friday, Mr. Schumer went to the Senate floor to praise the reporting by The Times, the Center for Public Integrity and Just Security as an additional reason for the Senate, as part of Mr. Trump's trial, to seek documents and testimony that the White House had blocked House impeachment investigators from obtaining.
"What constituted clear direction?" Mr. Schumer asked. "Did he get an order from the president, or did someone like Mr. Mulvaney get an order from the president passed on to Mr. Duffey? Was there discussion among officials about covering up for the president in delay of military assistance? These are questions that can only be answered by examination of the documentary evidence and by the testimony of key Trump administration officials under oath in a Senate trial."
At least four collections of emails have now been released, or shared with reporters, detailing correspondence between White House officials and their counterparts at the Office of Management and Budget or the Defense Department.
Over all, these exchanges show growing tension between the White House and the Pentagon in late August and early September, as Defense Department officials questioned if they would be able to spend all of congressionally appropriated military aid to Ukraine before the deadline at the end of the fiscal year on Sept. 30.


unian--2020-01-04--Ukraine sees 3% drop in sales of new commercial vehicles in 2019

Ukraine sees 3% drop in sales of new commercial vehicles in 2019
15:53, 04.01.20 2941
Some 1,500 new commercial vehicles were sold in December 2019 alone.
Помогите проекту
Support us


unian--2020-01-04--Yuzhnoukrainsk NPP's unit No. 3 de-energized by protection system – Energoatom

Yuzhnoukrainsk NPP's unit No. 3 de-energized by protection system – Energoatom
14:43, 04.01.20 4376
The cause of the protection system activation is being clarified.
Помогите проекту
Support us


unian--2020-01-04--House burnt amid brawl between local militants, Russian mercenaries in Donbas – intel

The conflict sparked during the celebration of the New Year in the village of Viktorivka , in Donetsk region 's Volnovakha district .
A house was burnt down in Russian-occupied Donbas amid a brawl between local militants and Russian mercenaries , as they were firing weapons , according to the Ukrainian Joint Forces ' intelligence data .
`` The conflict sparked during the celebration of the New Year in the village of Viktorivka , in Donetsk region 's Volnovakha district , '' the press center of Ukraine 's Joint Forces Operation wrote on Facebook on January 4 .
`` According @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New Year 's celebration , representatives of illegal armed formations of Russian occupation forces , using pyrotechnics , small arms , and the ZU-23-2 [ anti-aircraft gun ] , burned a residential building in the village of Viktorivka , '' the press center said .
As reported , the row sparked between local criminals and Russian mercenaries , as the militants `` were unhappy '' with the attitude of their `` bosses . ''
As UNIAN reported earlier , Russia 's hybrid military forces on Friday , January 3 , mounted three attacks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine .

The conflict sparked during the celebration of the New Year in the village of Viktorivka, in Donetsk region's Volnovakha district.
A house was burnt down in Russian-occupied Donbas amid a brawl between local militants and Russian mercenaries, as they were firing weapons, according to the Ukrainian Joint Forces' intelligence data.
Read alsoJFO HQ reveals enemy death toll in Donbas over 2019
"The conflict sparked during the celebration of the New Year in the village of Viktorivka, in Donetsk region's Volnovakha district," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation wrote on Facebook on January 4.
Видео дня
"According to the intelligence data, during the New Year's celebration, representatives of illegal armed formations of Russian occupation forces, using pyrotechnics, small arms, and the ZU-23-2 [anti-aircraft gun], burned a residential building in the village of Viktorivka," the press center said.
As reported, the row sparked between local criminals and Russian mercenaries, as the militants "were unhappy" with the attitude of their "bosses."
As UNIAN reported earlier, Russia's hybrid military forces on Friday, January 3, mounted three attacks on Ukrainian positions in Donbas, eastern Ukraine.


unian--2020-01-04--Donbas war update: invaders violate ceasefire three times

No casualties were reported among Ukrainian troops .
Russia 's hybrid military forces on Friday mounted three attacks on Ukrainian @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine .
`` The armed forces of the Russian Federation and its mercenaries violated the @ @ @ @ @ 3 , '' the press center of Ukraine 's Joint Forces Operation said in a @ @ @ @ @ Kyiv time on January 4 , 2019 .
The enemy opened fire at the positions @ @ @ @ @ using grenade launchers of various types , heavy machine guns , and other small arms @ @ @ @ @ fire near the village of Vasylivka , which is in the area of responsibility of @ @ @ @ @ tactical grouping .
Two attacks were recorded outside the villages of Novoluhanske and Zaitseve in @ @ @ @ @ the Pivnich [ North ] tactical grouping .
There were no Ukrainian army casualties in @ @ @ @ @ report said .
`` Since Saturday midnight , Russia-led forces have attacked Ukrainian positions once @ @ @ @ @ grenade launchers and heavy machine guns , '' the press center added .

No casualties were reported among Ukrainian troops.
Russia's hybrid military forces on Friday mounted three attacks on Ukrainian positions in Donbas, eastern Ukraine.
Read alsoJFO HQ reveals enemy death toll in Donbas over 2019
"The armed forces of the Russian Federation and its mercenaries violated the ceasefire three times on January 3," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation said in a Facebook update as of 07:00 Kyiv time on January 4, 2019.
Видео дня
The enemy opened fire at the positions of Ukrainian military units, using grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and other small arms.
Ukrainian troops came under fire near the village of Vasylivka, which is in the area of responsibility of the Skhid [East] tactical grouping.
Two attacks were recorded outside the villages of Novoluhanske and Zaitseve in the area of responsibility of the Pivnich [North] tactical grouping.
There were no Ukrainian army casualties in the past day, the report said.
"Since Saturday midnight, Russia-led forces have attacked Ukrainian positions once near Novoluhanske, using automatic grenade launchers and heavy machine guns," the press center added.


unian--2020-01-03--UN secretary-general "deeply concerned" about escalations in Gulf

General Soleimani was the architect of nearly every significant operation by Iranian intelligence and military forces over the past two decades .
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres is `` deeply concerned '' with the escalation in the Gulf region , according to a statement today from his spokesperson .
`` The Secretary-General has consistently advocated for de-escalation in the Gulf , '' said Farhan Haq , deputy spokesperson for the secretary-general , according to CNN .
`` He is deeply concerned with the recent escalation , '' Haq said .
`` This is a moment in which leaders must exercise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ afford another war in the Gulf . ''
Iran 's top security and intelligence commander was killed early Friday in a drone strike at Baghdad International Airport that was authorized by President Trump , American officials said .
The commander , Maj. Gen. Qassem Soleimani , who led the powerful Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps , was killed along with several officials from Iraqi militias backed by Tehran when an American MQ-9 Reaper drone fired missiles into a convoy that was leaving the airport , according to The New York @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of nearly every significant operation by Iranian intelligence and military forces over the past two decades , and his death was a staggering blow for Iran at a time of sweeping geopolitical conflict .
United States officials were braced for potential Iranian retaliatory attacks , possibly including cyberattacks and terrorism , on American interests and allies .

General Soleimani was the architect of nearly every significant operation by Iranian intelligence and military forces over the past two decades.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres is "deeply concerned" with the escalation in the Gulf region, according to a statement today from his spokesperson.
"The Secretary-General has consistently advocated for de-escalation in the Gulf," said Farhan Haq, deputy spokesperson for the secretary-general, according to CNN.
"He is deeply concerned with the recent escalation," Haq said. "This is a moment in which leaders must exercise maximum restraint. The world cannot afford another war in the Gulf."
Видео дня
Read alsoU.S. Embassy urges its citizens to depart Iraq immediately
Iran's top security and intelligence commander was killed early Friday in a drone strike at Baghdad International Airport that was authorized by President Trump, American officials said. The commander, Maj. Gen. Qassem Soleimani, who led the powerful Quds Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, was killed along with several officials from Iraqi militias backed by Tehran when an American MQ-9 Reaper drone fired missiles into a convoy that was leaving the airport, according to The New York Times.
General Soleimani was the architect of nearly every significant operation by Iranian intelligence and military forces over the past two decades, and his death was a staggering blow for Iran at a time of sweeping geopolitical conflict.
United States officials were braced for potential Iranian retaliatory attacks, possibly including cyberattacks and terrorism, on American interests and allies.


unian--2020-01-03--Polish leaders urge Holocaust forum to condemn Putin over collaboration claim

Putin said last week that Poland had taken `` the first step towards genocide '' by entering into an agreement with Hitler and joining the partition of Czechoslovakia in 1938 , and called the then-Polish ambassador to Germany , Jozef Lipski , `` an antisemitic pig . ''
Polish President Andrzej Duda wants participants in the January conference at Israel 's Yad Vashem to condemn Russian President Vladimir Putin 's claim that Poles cooperated with Hitler .
Krzysztof Szczerski , the head of Duda 's Cabinet , is demanding a condemnation from participants of the World Holocaust Forum — the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the liberation of Auschwitz .
Putin said last week that Poland had taken `` the first step towards genocide '' by entering into an agreement with Hitler and joining the partition of Czechoslovakia in 1938 , and called the then-Polish ambassador to Germany , Jozef Lipski , `` an antisemitic pig . ''
Morawiecki in his statement published Sunday wrote that Putin `` has lied about Poland on numerous occasions , and he has always done it deliberately .
This usually happens when Russian authorities feel international pressure related to their activities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron , this month will come to Israel for the World Holocaust Forum .
On the same day , there will be an official ceremony at the former death camp 's memorial in Poland , and some of the world leaders will take part in both events .
Putin is not scheduled to come to Poland .
Read alsoZelensky calls on Israel to recognize Holodomor as genocide of Ukrainian people Duda 's office has said it is waiting to see a detailed schedule for the Jerusalem conference before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Putin said last week that Poland had taken "the first step towards genocide" by entering into an agreement with Hitler and joining the partition of Czechoslovakia in 1938, and called the then-Polish ambassador to Germany, Jozef Lipski, "an antisemitic pig."
Polish President Andrzej Duda wants participants in the January conference at Israel's Yad Vashem to condemn Russian President Vladimir Putin's claim that Poles cooperated with Hitler.
Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki on Sunday called Putin's accusation a lie that needed reinterpretation, Jewish News reports.
Krzysztof Szczerski, the head of Duda's Cabinet, is demanding a condemnation from participants of the World Holocaust Forum — the January 23 conference commemorating the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz.
Видео дня
Putin said last week that Poland had taken "the first step towards genocide" by entering into an agreement with Hitler and joining the partition of Czechoslovakia in 1938, and called the then-Polish ambassador to Germany, Jozef Lipski, "an antisemitic pig."
Read alsoUkrainian film agency to invest US$2.1 mln in "Babyn Yar" movie
Morawiecki in his statement published Sunday wrote that Putin "has lied about Poland on numerous occasions, and he has always done it deliberately. This usually happens when Russian authorities feel international pressure related to their activities."
Thirty state leaders, including Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron, this month will come to Israel for the World Holocaust Forum.
On the same day, there will be an official ceremony at the former death camp's memorial in Poland, and some of the world leaders will take part in both events. Putin is not scheduled to come to Poland.
Read alsoZelensky calls on Israel to recognize Holodomor as genocide of Ukrainian people
Duda's office has said it is waiting to see a detailed schedule for the Jerusalem conference before deciding whether the Polish president will attend.


unian--2020-01-03--Possible abuse of power by ex-SBI chief Roman Truba under probe

National Anti-сorruption Bureau ( NABU ) will be probing into possible abuse of power by Roman Truba , the recently @ @ @ @ @ Bureau of Investigation ( SBI ) .
Authorized NABU officials were obliged to launch criminal @ @ @ @ @ Court , reports Ihor Holovan , a lawyer representing ex-president Petro Poroshenko in SBI cases @ @ @ @ @ files posted by Holovan indicate that the pre-trial investigation into Roman Truba launched on December @ @ @ @ @ extract from the unified register of pre-trial investigations says NABU is probing Truba 's possible @ @ @ @ @ for the sake of own undue benefits .
As UNIAN reported earlier , on December @ @ @ @ @ Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Truba from top SBI post .

The court obliged NABU to launch criminal proceedings.
National Anti-сorruption Bureau (NABU) will be probing into possible abuse of power by Roman Truba, the recently dismissed ex-director of the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI).
Authorized NABU officials were obliged to launch criminal proceedings by the High Anti-Corruption Court, reports Ihor Holovan, a lawyer representing ex-president Petro Poroshenko in SBI cases targeting his client.
Read alsoZelensky signs law reformatting State Bureau of Investigation
Видео дня
The files posted by Holovan indicate that the pre-trial investigation into Roman Truba launched on December 19, 2019.
An extract from the unified register of pre-trial investigations says NABU is probing Truba's possible unlawful influence on SBI detectives for the sake of own undue benefits.
As UNIAN reported earlier, on December 27, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Truba from top SBI post.


unian--2020-01-03--Benefits of "pump or pay" principle: Ukrainian GTS operator reports on Russian gas transit volumes

Benefits of "pump or pay" principle: Ukrainian GTS operator reports on Russian gas transit volumes
21:45, 03.01.20 3604
The system has been partially operating in reverse mode.
Помогите проекту
Support us


unian--2020-01-03--Challenges of 2020: Verkhovna Rada as detonator of unification or split

In 2020 , the Verkhovna Rada may become both a great unifying ground and a driver of the downfall of the entire ZeTeam .
It all depends on how quickly deputies will `` grow up '' and gain political wisdom .
The New Year 's Eve 2019 was n't special for most of the Servants of the People , as they could not imagine back then that the year will bring them a fast-paced career .
However , after the euphoria of winning the election , the reality of parliamentary everyday life brought them down from the skies .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tasks where it had to demonstrate effectiveness .
It 's about bills on the state budget 2020 , the `` special status '' of Donbas , and the land market .
While two of them saw no issues during the vote as deputies were playing the same notes , the land reform bill was a mishap .
On this legislation , the Servants of the People so far can not find an understanding both with their fellow deputies and their opponents from other factions .
Since the first days of Rada 's work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a majority would gravitate toward fragmentation .
Majority MPs , considering key bills , will focus on the moods of their constituents , and this is especially true of the `` land market '' .
In addition , the conditional Kolomoisky Group , the Pavliuk Group , and others have a so-called `` golden card '' that will be drawn during the votes for bills that are crucial for the President 's Office .
Scandals are not very conducive to understanding between MPs .
Albeit contributing to some PR , they also turn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both by voters and some fellow faction members .
For example , the case of Bohdan Yaremenko ( the prostitute row ) and the failure to vote for his dismissal , as well as the appointment of Yelizaveta Yasko , who earlier failed in the party primaries but was actually imposed by the President 's Office , indicate that `` Servants of the People '' begin to realize that there is a parliamentary-presidential model of government in Ukraine , not the other way around .
Deputies begin to grow up and understand their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , from time to time , they deliberately fail to vote on the bills that are being imposed on them from above .
We will see more of this in 2020 .
Although forecasts are hard to draw , it is Parliament that can serve as a platform for the country 's unification , as President Zelensky said in his New Year 's greeting , but it can also become a factor of an even greater division .
It all depends on the principles and model of national dialogue that the authorities will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ winning an election is one thing , but `` winning the power '' , that is , retaining legitimacy and popular support , is a higher-level game .
In this situation , the fight will be for the content , not the form .
It will be for the minds , not for some creative appearance .
The parliamentary-presidential model of government is implemented in the so-called coalition politics of parties , whose ideological principles may vary , while they are united in their common goals for the sake of the country .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ years the civil movement has grown significantly in Ukraine .
It became a deterrent against authorities that tended toward authoritarianism .
It has formed its leaders , many of whom have become part of the governing team .
Therefore , `` civic nationalism '' as an idea , as a consensus of the elite groups and the public , remains important .
Even more so , for a country with unhealed post-conflict wounds .
And it is important that it goes on within Parliament because the very consensus , the very coalition , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ represented in the Verkhovna Rada .
If they fail to reach an understanding , the streets will have their say .
And no one wants another Maidan .
Therefore , despite the desire of some politicians to use controversial topics as a `` torch '' , the key challenge of the Rada in 2020 will be to keep the debate within Parliament premises and to make sure it does n't spill beyond its walls .
Taras Semeniuk is an analyst at KyivStratPro

In 2020, the Verkhovna Rada may become both a great unifying ground and a driver of the downfall of the entire ZeTeam. It all depends on how quickly deputies will "grow up" and gain political wisdom.
The New Year's Eve 2019 wasn't special for most of the Servants of the People, as they could not imagine back then that the year will bring them a fast-paced career. However, after the euphoria of winning the election, the reality of parliamentary everyday life brought them down from the skies.
In 2019, the Rada faced three key tasks where it had to demonstrate effectiveness. It's about bills on the state budget 2020, the "special status" of Donbas, and the land market. While two of them saw no issues during the vote as deputies were playing the same notes, the land reform bill was a mishap. On this legislation, the Servants of the People so far cannot find an understanding both with their fellow deputies and their opponents from other factions.
Видео дня
Since the first days of Rada's work, analysts and experts have predicted that a majority would gravitate toward fragmentation. Majority MPs, considering key bills, will focus on the moods of their constituents, and this is especially true of the "land market". In addition, the conditional Kolomoisky Group, the Pavliuk Group, and others have a so-called "golden card" that will be drawn during the votes for bills that are crucial for the President's Office.
Scandals are not very conducive to understanding between MPs. Albeit contributing to some PR, they also turn for a monomajority into a negative assessment both by voters and some fellow faction members. For example, the case of Bohdan Yaremenko (the prostitute row) and the failure to vote for his dismissal, as well as the appointment of Yelizaveta Yasko, who earlier failed in the party primaries but was actually imposed by the President's Office, indicate that "Servants of the People" begin to realize that there is a parliamentary-presidential model of government in Ukraine, not the other way around.
Deputies begin to grow up and understand their role in the political process, so, from time to time, they deliberately fail to vote on the bills that are being imposed on them from above. We will see more of this in 2020.
Influence groups within a majority will play a more important role, especially when it comes to key bills
Although forecasts are hard to draw, it is Parliament that can serve as a platform for the country's unification, as President Zelensky said in his New Year's greeting, but it can also become a factor of an even greater division. It all depends on the principles and model of national dialogue that the authorities will promote in 2020. After all, winning an election is one thing, but "winning the power", that is, retaining legitimacy and popular support, is a higher-level game. In this situation, the fight will be for the content, not the form. It will be for the minds, not for some creative appearance.
The parliamentary-presidential model of government is implemented in the so-called coalition politics of parties, whose ideological principles may vary, while they are united in their common goals for the sake of the country. For example, in the last ten years the civil movement has grown significantly in Ukraine. It became a deterrent against authorities that tended toward authoritarianism. It has formed its leaders, many of whom have become part of the governing team. Therefore, "civic nationalism" as an idea, as a consensus of the elite groups and the public, remains important. Even more so, for a country with unhealed post-conflict wounds.
It is clear that there is a constant debate about the country's goals
And it is important that it goes on within Parliament because the very consensus, the very coalition, relies on the quality of elite groups represented in the Verkhovna Rada. If they fail to reach an understanding, the streets will have their say. And no one wants another Maidan.
Therefore, despite the desire of some politicians to use controversial topics as a "torch", the key challenge of the Rada in 2020 will be to keep the debate within Parliament premises and to make sure it doesn't spill beyond its walls.
Taras Semeniuk is an analyst at KyivStratPro


unian--2020-01-03--Court in Ukraine rules to arrest ex-vice PM Arbuzov in absentia

The former official is on the international wanted list .
The High Anti-Corruption Court of Ukraine on Friday , January @ @ @ @ @ a preventive measure to be applied to former First Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine , @ @ @ @ @ part of the team of the disgraced ex-president Viktor Yanukovych , and is being tried @ @ @ @ @ The investigating judge of the High Anti-Corruption Court examined the motion of National Anti-Corruption Bureau @ @ @ @ @ of restraint to former first vice prime minister of Ukraine Mykola Azarov in the form @ @ @ @ @ the court press service said in a statement .
A preventive measure was selected in @ @ @ @ @ is put on the international wanted list .
As reported earlier , Arbuzov is charged @ @ @ @ @ part of a criminal organization , which led to the embezzlement of the National Bank @ @ @ @ @ of UAH 220 million .

The former official is on the international wanted list.
The High Anti-Corruption Court of Ukraine on Friday, January 3, convened to select a preventive measure to be applied to former First Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine, Serhiy Arbuzov, who was part of the team of the disgraced ex-president Viktor Yanukovych, and is being tried on corruption-related charges.
"The investigating judge of the High Anti-Corruption Court examined the motion of National Anti-Corruption Bureau detective and selected a measure of restraint to former first vice prime minister of Ukraine Mykola Azarov in the form of custody remand," the court press service said in a statement.
Read alsoSwitzerland extends asset freeze regarding Yanukovych, his entourage
Видео дня
A preventive measure was selected in absentia, since the suspect is put on the international wanted list.
As reported earlier, Arbuzov is charged with abuse of power as part of a criminal organization, which led to the embezzlement of the National Bank's assets in the amount of UAH 220 million.


unian--2020-01-03--Ukrainian border guards receive two Airbus H125 helicopters

Ukrainian border guards receive two Airbus H125 helicopters
19:30, 03.01.20 6395
The unified aviation security and safety system of Ukraine is set to be replenished with 55 helicopters.
Помогите проекту
Support us


unian--2020-01-03--Knife-wielding attacker shot dead after killing one, injuring others in Paris

The attacker 's motive is not yet clear .
One person has died and several others have been injured after @ @ @ @ @ suburb of Paris .
A man stabbed a number of passers-by in Villejuif , about @ @ @ @ @ south of the French capital , on Friday , the BBC reports .
The attacker @ @ @ @ @ shot dead .
Some reports said he was wearing an explosive vest , although this @ @ @ @ @ Four people are believed to have been stabbed and two are reported to have been @ @ @ @ @ Suleimani 's killing may lead to war between U.S. , Iran – media The attack @ @ @ @ @ and the targets appear to have been chosen at random .
Police have advised people @ @ @ @ @ which is near to the Hautes-Bruyères state park .
The attacker 's motive is not @ @ @

The attacker's motive is not yet clear.
One person has died and several others have been injured after a knife attack in a suburb of Paris.
A man stabbed a number of passers-by in Villejuif, about 7km (4 miles) south of the French capital, on Friday, the BBC reports.
The attacker was chased by police and shot dead. Some reports said he was wearing an explosive vest, although this has not been confirmed.
Видео дня
Four people are believed to have been stabbed and two are reported to have been seriously injured.
Read alsoGeneral Suleimani's killing may lead to war between U.S., Iran – media
The attack took place outside a supermarket and the targets appear to have been chosen at random.
Police have advised people to avoid the area, which is near to the Hautes-Bruyères state park.
The attacker's motive is not yet clear.


unian--2020-01-03--Kremlin's hybrid scripts for Belarus - media

The latest polls in Belarus also show that citizens are not at all as willing to unite with Russia as Moscow would love them to be .
Russia has been mounting pressure on Belarus to gain influence and ultimate control , and the two countries are just half a step short of an actual `` hybrid war '' .
It might as well have already begun , Belarus Partisan suggests , adding that Belarusians may just be oblivious to sophisticated signs of Russia 's hybrid aggression .
The publication reflects on possible actions to follow on the part of Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open military invasion is unlikely , here 'thanks ' to Ukraine because , despite major preparations for the process , Russia nevertheless got their hands 'burned ' badly .
Blitzkrieg never worked out , '' the article says , adding that another such massive campaign could turn out too costly for Russia 's struggling budget .
Moreover , as Ukrainian experience showed , `` the deployed agents of influence , like the Orthodox Moscow Patriarchate , or billions invested in propaganda were of no help because people who love their country can not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Belarus also show that citizens are not at all as willing to unite with Russia as Moscow would love them to be .
Besides , the publication adds , Russia has no significant military presence in the form of large military bases which would provide important taсtical support , as the Russian Black Sea fleet base in Sevastopol did during Crimea annexation .
The easiest way for the Kremlin remains destabilization with the simultaneous removal of President Alexander Lukashenko from power , which would create a temporary power vacuum , typical for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for some reason fails to appoint a successor .
In this context , historian Sergei Klimovsky earlier said that Susanne Brandstätter ’ s film `` Checkmate : Strategy of a Revolution '' , telling about the events in Romania in 1989 that led to Nicolae Ceausescu ’ s overthrow and execution is a hint : `` They can get you , too . ''
In the situation where Belarus expects a relatively stable year , having gotten a China loan and not needing Russia 's financial support , there is only one player @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and topple Lukashenko , and it 's Russia , the authors wrote .
By the way , the tarring method , applied recently against the Belarus president to discredit him in the eyes of the West and China , yielded no result - that 's where an old and murky report suddenly resurfaced about opposition figures who went missing years ago .
Read alsoRussia sought to build air base in Belarus in exchange for fighter jets In conditions where economic or informational methods do n't work , while military incursion is unfeasible at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the table for Russia , which is destabilizing its neighbor , preferably with a toppling of the country 's president , which would create pretext for `` providing fraternal assistance '' up to the introduction of peacekeepers .
After all , albeit virtual , the Union State exists , while Belarus is also a member of the CSTO military Bloc .
The Kremlin will not cease its efforts , the authors suggest , adding that the situation in Belarus `` is too reminiscent of the summer-autumn 2013 in Kyiv : everything seemed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the process of 'finalization ' of the Ukraine-EU association agreement was slowly ongoing , while Russia had already started its hybrid war , which was invisible to Ukrainians '' The publication notes that a similar process might have already begun in Belarus as `` the scripts tailored by the Kremlin are just too similar . ''

The latest polls in Belarus also show that citizens are not at all as willing to unite with Russia as Moscow would love them to be.
Russia has been mounting pressure on Belarus to gain influence and ultimate control, and the two countries are just half a step short of an actual "hybrid war".
It might as well have already begun, Belarus Partisan suggests, adding that Belarusians may just be oblivious to sophisticated signs of Russia's hybrid aggression.
The publication reflects on possible actions to follow on the part of Russia in relation to Belarus.
Видео дня
"An open military invasion is unlikely, here 'thanks' to Ukraine because, despite major preparations for the process, Russia nevertheless got their hands 'burned' badly. Blitzkrieg never worked out," the article says, adding that another such massive campaign could turn out too costly for Russia's struggling budget.
Moreover, as Ukrainian experience showed, "the deployed agents of influence, like the Orthodox Moscow Patriarchate, or billions invested in propaganda were of no help because people who love their country cannot be defeated."
The latest polls in Belarus also show that citizens are not at all as willing to unite with Russia as Moscow would love them to be.
Read alsoRussia pressuring, "tightening grip" on Belarus, Lukashenko complains
Besides, the publication adds, Russia has no significant military presence in the form of large military bases which would provide important taсtical support, as the Russian Black Sea fleet base in Sevastopol did during Crimea annexation.
The easiest way for the Kremlin remains destabilization with the simultaneous removal of President Alexander Lukashenko from power, which would create a temporary power vacuum, typical for countries where a dictator steps down and for some reason fails to appoint a successor.
In this context, historian Sergei Klimovsky earlier said that Susanne Brandstätter’s film "Checkmate: Strategy of a Revolution", telling about the events in Romania in 1989 that led to Nicolae Ceausescu’s overthrow and execution is a hint: "They can get you, too."
In the situation where Belarus expects a relatively stable year, having gotten a China loan and not needing Russia's financial support, there is only one player seeking to "rock the boat" and topple Lukashenko, and it's Russia, the authors wrote.
By the way, the tarring method, applied recently against the Belarus president to discredit him in the eyes of the West and China, yielded no result - that's where an old and murky report suddenly resurfaced about opposition figures who went missing years ago.
Read alsoRussia sought to build air base in Belarus in exchange for fighter jets
In conditions where economic or informational methods don't work, while military incursion is unfeasible at the moment, one thing remains on the table for Russia, which is destabilizing its neighbor, preferably with a toppling of the country's president, which would create pretext for "providing fraternal assistance" up to the introduction of peacekeepers. After all, albeit virtual, the Union State exists, while Belarus is also a member of the CSTO military Bloc.
The Kremlin will not cease its efforts, the authors suggest, adding that the situation in Belarus "is too reminiscent of the summer-autumn 2013 in Kyiv: everything seemed to be calm, nothing portended trouble, the process of 'finalization' of the Ukraine-EU association agreement was slowly ongoing, while Russia had already started its hybrid war, which was invisible to Ukrainians"
The publication notes that a similar process might have already begun in Belarus as "the scripts tailored by the Kremlin are just too similar."


unian--2020-01-03--Ukrtransgaz: 13.1 bcm of gas injected in Ukraine's USFs in 2019, up 34% from 2018

Ukrtransgaz: 13.1 bcm of gas injected in Ukraine's USFs in 2019, up 34% from 2018
16:52, 03.01.20 404
Some 18.9 bcm of gas was accumulated in the underground storage facilities as of January 1, 2020.
Помогите проекту
Support us


unian--2020-01-03--Ukrainian bomb squads destroy 38 explosive objects over past day

The SES squads have examined 1.6 hectares of territory .
The State Emergency Service ( SES ) of Ukraine has @ @ @ @ @ bomb squads have destroyed 38 explosive items in Donetsk region over the past day .
@ @ @ @ @ 700 explosives in Donbas over week '' Bomb squads of the State Emergencies Service of @ @ @ @ @ on surveying the country 's territory , as well as identifying , seizing , and @ @ @ @ @ the past day , the SES squads have examined 1.6 hectares of territory and destroyed @ @ @ @ @ reads the report .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Ukrainian demining teams found 179 explosive @ @ @ @ @ town of Zolote , which was disengagement site No .
2 in Donbas , eastern @ @

The SES squads have examined 1.6 hectares of territory.
The State Emergency Service (SES) of Ukraine has announced that specialists of SES bomb squads have destroyed 38 explosive items in Donetsk region over the past day.
Read alsoUkrainian sappers neutralize almost 700 explosives in Donbas over week
"Bomb squads of the State Emergencies Service of Ukraine carry out everyday work on surveying the country's territory, as well as identifying, seizing, and destroying explosive objects. Over the past day, the SES squads have examined 1.6 hectares of territory and destroyed 38 explosive objects," reads the report.
Видео дня
As UNIAN reported earlier, Ukrainian demining teams found 179 explosive remnants of war near the town of Zolote, which was disengagement site No. 2 in Donbas, eastern Ukraine.


unian--2020-01-03--Avdiyivka in Donbas left without electricity amid repairs on power line

Avdiyivka in Donbas left without electricity amid repairs on power line
16:06, 03.01.20 1265
Electricity supplies should be restored on January 4.
Помогите проекту
Support us


unian--2020-01-03--Ukraine's Windrose launches summer flights from Kyiv to Italy's Brindisi, Lamezia Terme, Ancona

The Kyiv-Brindisi flights will operate on Saturdays from May 30 to October 3 .
Ukraine 's Windrose Airlines will launch @ @ @ @ @ International Airport located outside the Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv to the Italian cities of @ @ @ @ @ and Ancona for the period of summer navigation in 2020 .
The Kyiv-Brindisi flights will @ @ @ @ @ 30 to October 3 , the company 's press service said .
Flights from Kyiv @ @ @ @ @ on Tuesdays , Fridays , and Saturdays from May 29 to October 3 , while @ @ @ @ @ Saturdays from June 6 to September 19 .
Additional flights are also scheduled from Kharkiv @ @ @ @ @ Fridays for the period from May 29 to October 2 .
UNIAN memo .
Windrose @ @ @ @ @ ) is a Ukrainian charter airline based at Boryspil International Airport .
It was founded @ @ @ @ @ .

The Kyiv-Brindisi flights will operate on Saturdays from May 30 to October 3.
Ukraine's Windrose Airlines will launch three new flights from Boryspil International Airport located outside the Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv to the Italian cities of Brindisi, Lamezia Terme, and Ancona for the period of summer navigation in 2020.
Read alsoUkraine's Infrastructure Ministry to grant international status to Bila Tserkva Airport
The Kyiv-Brindisi flights will operate on Saturdays from May 30 to October 3, the company's press service said.
Видео дня
Flights from Kyiv to Lamezia Terme will operate on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from May 29 to October 3, while those to Ancona – on Saturdays from June 6 to September 19.
Additional flights are also scheduled from Kharkiv Airport to Lamezia Terme on Fridays for the period from May 29 to October 2.
UNIAN memo. Windrose Airlines (Windrose Aviation Company) is a Ukrainian charter airline based at Boryspil International Airport. It was founded on October 28, 2003.


unian--2020-01-03--Ukraine shows Turkish-Ukrainian drone fighter

Ukraine showcases Turkish-Ukrainian drone fighter (Photo, video)
15:19, 03.01.20 14382
The drone does not yet have a name.
Помогите проекту
Support us


unian--2020-01-03--U.S. Embassy urges its citizens to depart Iraq immediately

The United States Embassy in Baghdad has urged its citizens to depart Iraq immediately .
Read alsoGeneral Suleimani 's killing @ @ @ @ @ U.S. , Iran – media '' Due to heightened tensions in Iraq and the region @ @ @ @ @ American citizens to heed the January 2020 Travel Advisory and depart Iraq immediately , '' @ @ @ @ @ security alert on January 3 , 2020 .
It is noted U.S. citizens should depart @ @ @ @ @ and failing that , to other countries via land .
`` Due to Iranian-backed militia @ @ @ @ @ compound , all public consular operations are suspended until further notice .
U.S. citizens should @ @ @ @ @ '' reads the report .

All public consular operations are suspended.
The United States Embassy in Baghdad has urged its citizens to depart Iraq immediately.
Read alsoGeneral Suleimani's killing may lead to war between U.S., Iran – media
"Due to heightened tensions in Iraq and the region, the U.S. Embassy urges American citizens to heed the January 2020 Travel Advisory and depart Iraq immediately," the Embassy said in a security alert on January 3, 2020.
Видео дня
It is noted U.S. citizens should depart via airline while possible, and failing that, to other countries via land.
"Due to Iranian-backed militia attacks at the U.S. Embassy compound, all public consular operations are suspended until further notice. U.S. citizens should not approach the Embassy," reads the report.


unian--2020-01-03--Ukraine's Infrastructure Ministry to grant international status to Bila Tserkva Airport

Ukraine's Infrastructure Ministry to grant international status to Bila Tserkva Airport
14:23, 03.01.20 8689
The reconstruction of airports in the cities of Dnipro and Odesa, as well as the town of Mukachevo, is also envisaged.
Помогите проекту
Support us


unian--2020-01-08--CNN: Pentagon says Iran launches more than a dozen ballistic missiles at two Iraqi bases

The Pentagon confirmed that Iran launched missiles at U.S. military and coalition forces in Iraq .
The Pentagon said Iran @ @ @ @ @ missiles , CNN reported .
`` It is clear that these missiles were launched from @ @ @ @ @ two Iraqi military bases hosting U.S. military and coalition personnel at Al-Assad and Irbil , @ @ @ @ @ to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs , said in a statement .
`` @ @ @ @ @ battle damage assessments , '' he added .
The bases , he said , have @ @ @ @ @ due to indications that the Iranian regime planned to attack our forces and interests in @ @ @ @ @ As we evaluate the situation and our response , we will take all necessary measures @ @ @ @ @ personnel , partners , and allies in the region , '' the Pentagon said .

U.S. officials working on initial battle damage assessments.
The Pentagon confirmed that Iran launched missiles at U.S. military and coalition forces in Iraq.
The Pentagon said Iran fired more than a dozen missiles, CNN reported.
"It is clear that these missiles were launched from Iran and targeted at least two Iraqi military bases hosting U.S. military and coalition personnel at Al-Assad and Irbil," Jonathan Hoffman, assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs, said in a statement.
Видео дня
"We are working on initial battle damage assessments," he added.
🎥 «انتقام سخت» آغاز شد/ حملات سنگین موشکی سپاه به پایگاه آمریکایی عین‌الاسد pic.twitter.com/sbw0cwGH6B — خبرگزاری فارس (@FarsNews_Agency) January 7, 2020
The bases, he said, have been on high alert "due to indications that the Iranian regime planned to attack our forces and interests in the region."
"As we evaluate the situation and our response, we will take all necessary measures to protect and defend U.S. personnel, partners, and allies in the region," the Pentagon said.


unian--2020-01-07--CNN: U.S. forces on high alert for possible Iranian drone attacks

U.S. intelligence has observed Iran moving military equipment , including drones and ballistic missiles , over the last several days .
U.S. forces and air-defense missile batteries across the Middle East were placed on high alert overnight Monday to possibly shoot down Iranian drones as intelligence mounted about a threat of an imminent attack against U.S. targets , two U.S. officials tell CNN .
The alert reflects the heightened tensions between the U.S. and Iran in the wake of last week 's U.S. drone strike that killed a top Iranian general , Qasem Soleimani , CNN said .
U.S. officials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was carried out to prevent an `` imminent '' attack in the region that would have put American lives at risk , but have so far declined to provide details about the intelligence .
U.S. intelligence also has observed Iran moving military equipment , including drones and ballistic missiles , over the last several days .
U.S. officials said the movement may be an Iranian effort to secure its weapons from a potential U.S. strike , or put them in positions to launch their own attacks .
Iran has put missiles on its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attacks , including a significant attack on Saudi oil installations last year .
While forces have already been on high alert for several days , they were even more vigilant Monday night , both officials said .
Based on the intelligence , the U.S. was watching for potential attacks specifically against U.S. locations in Iraq , Kuwait , Saudi Arabia , the United Arab Emirates and Jordan .
On Monday , the U.S. Maritime Administration issued a warning to commercial vessels operating in the Middle East that `` there remains the possibility of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the region . ''
Soleimani , head of Iran 's elite Quds Force , was killed in a U.S. airstrike at Baghdad 's international airport on January 3 , 2020 .

U.S. intelligence has observed Iran moving military equipment, including drones and ballistic missiles, over the last several days.
U.S. forces and air-defense missile batteries across the Middle East were placed on high alert overnight Monday to possibly shoot down Iranian drones as intelligence mounted about a threat of an imminent attack against U.S. targets, two U.S. officials tell CNN.
The alert reflects the heightened tensions between the U.S. and Iran in the wake of last week's U.S. drone strike that killed a top Iranian general, Qasem Soleimani, CNN said.
Read alsoPentagon chief denies U.S. is leaving Iraq – media
Видео дня
U.S. officials have claimed the strike against the general was carried out to prevent an "imminent" attack in the region that would have put American lives at risk, but have so far declined to provide details about the intelligence.
U.S. intelligence also has observed Iran moving military equipment, including drones and ballistic missiles, over the last several days. U.S. officials said the movement may be an Iranian effort to secure its weapons from a potential U.S. strike, or put them in positions to launch their own attacks.
Iran has put missiles on its drones that have been used in other attacks, including a significant attack on Saudi oil installations last year. While forces have already been on high alert for several days, they were even more vigilant Monday night, both officials said.
Based on the intelligence, the U.S. was watching for potential attacks specifically against U.S. locations in Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan. On Monday, the U.S. Maritime Administration issued a warning to commercial vessels operating in the Middle East that "there remains the possibility of Iranian action against U.S. maritime interests in the region."
Soleimani, head of Iran's elite Quds Force, was killed in a U.S. airstrike at Baghdad's international airport on January 3, 2020.


unian--2020-01-07--Foreign minister elaborates on when Ukraine should start seeking alternative to Minsk deal

He warned against the transformation of the war into a frozen conflict .
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadym Prystaiko says Ukraine should start seeking an alternative to the Minsk peace deal on Donbas if local elections are not held in Russia-occupied districts in 2020 or if there is a delay in the withdrawal of enemy troops and weapons .
`` Let 's be frank .
If the elections are not held in the occupied territories in 2020 or the process of withdrawing troops lasts too long , then there is the need for considering possible alternatives to the Minsk [ deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mission .
However , this does not mean we are quitting the general Minsk process , '' he told Germany 's Bild newspaper in an interview the translation of which was posted on the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry 's website .
Read alsoMinister Prystaiko : Expedient to hold elections in Donbas simultaneously with rest of Ukraine Prystaiko warns the war in eastern Ukraine could turn into a frozen conflict .
`` I do n't want this to happen , but I could predict it .
I 'll be frank : even a frozen conflict @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Now they are still opening fire on us .
Of course , we do n't want a frozen conflict .
Ideally , we want to get our land and our people back .
But if this does n't happen , then at least it is necessary to have those killings stopped , '' the foreign minister said .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Prystaiko said in November 2019 that deploying peacekeepers , which is not foreseen by the Minsk process , could be an alternative to the Minsk peace deal .

He warned against the transformation of the war into a frozen conflict.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Vadym Prystaiko says Ukraine should start seeking an alternative to the Minsk peace deal on Donbas if local elections are not held in Russia-occupied districts in 2020 or if there is a delay in the withdrawal of enemy troops and weapons.
"Let's be frank. If the elections are not held in the occupied territories in 2020 or the process of withdrawing troops lasts too long, then there is the need for considering possible alternatives to the Minsk [deal]. This could be a peacekeeping mission. However, this does not mean we are quitting the general Minsk process," he told Germany's Bild newspaper in an interview the translation of which was posted on the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry's website.
Read alsoMinister Prystaiko: Expedient to hold elections in Donbas simultaneously with rest of Ukraine
Видео дня
Prystaiko warns the war in eastern Ukraine could turn into a frozen conflict.
"I don't want this to happen, but I could predict it. I'll be frank: even a frozen conflict is a long way to go. Now they are still opening fire on us. Of course, we don't want a frozen conflict. Ideally, we want to get our land and our people back. But if this doesn't happen, then at least it is necessary to have those killings stopped," the foreign minister said.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Prystaiko said in November 2019 that deploying peacekeepers, which is not foreseen by the Minsk process, could be an alternative to the Minsk peace deal.


unian--2020-01-07--Minister Prystaiko: Expedient to hold elections in Donbas simultaneously with rest of Ukraine

The minister stresses members of illegal armed formations in Donbas must not participate in the process .
Ukraine 's Minister of Foreign Affairs Vadym Prystaiko says it is expedient to hold local elections in Russia-occupied areas in Donbas , eastern Ukraine , simultaneously with the vote in the rest of Ukraine this autumn .
`` Ideally , the elections should be held simultaneously with the local elections in Ukraine this autumn .
I constantly have to remind that these are not national elections , but the local ones .
Therefore , no illegal groups in the east of Ukraine would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This is about much smaller administrative units on both sides of the frontline and throughout Ukraine , '' he said in an interview for Germany 's Bild newspaper .
The interview in Ukrainian is available on the Foreign Ministry 's website .
Read alsoVadym Prystaiko : If by year-end we 're able to do a swap , then Normandy format summits make sense The minister says that Ukraine agreed to enshrine the so-called Steinmeier formula in its legislation , but this does not mean that the elections in the Russia-occupied districts in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shine . ''
Answering a question regarding the possibility of electing representatives of the so-called `` republics '' – the `` Donetsk People 's Republic '' and the `` Luhansk People 's Republic '' , Prystaiko explained : `` We are not naïve and know very well who will be running during the elections on the other side of the front .
But people would at least be able to get a feeling of [ involvement in ] the democratic process to be held simultaneously in the occupied and free territories , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russia to withdraw troops from our east . ''
As Prystaiko said earlier , the Steinmeier formula was agreed by the Ukrainian side and by the Trilateral Contact Group .
`` The question is how it will be implemented in Ukrainian legislation – where and to what extent .
But the very idea of the formula that the final political solution lies in the field of legitimate elections , which must be confirmed by an independent international organization , is precisely a compromise reached in 2016 , '' he told UNIAN in an @ @ @ @ @

The minister stresses members of illegal armed formations in Donbas must not participate in the process.
Ukraine's Minister of Foreign Affairs Vadym Prystaiko says it is expedient to hold local elections in Russia-occupied areas in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, simultaneously with the vote in the rest of Ukraine this autumn.
"Ideally, the elections should be held simultaneously with the local elections in Ukraine this autumn. I constantly have to remind that these are not national elections, but the local ones. Therefore, no illegal groups in the east of Ukraine would be able to take part in them. This is about much smaller administrative units on both sides of the frontline and throughout Ukraine," he said in an interview for Germany's Bild newspaper.
The interview in Ukrainian is available on the Foreign Ministry's website.
Видео дня
Read alsoVadym Prystaiko: If by year-end we're able to do a swap, then Normandy format summits make sense
The minister says that Ukraine agreed to enshrine the so-called Steinmeier formula in its legislation, but this does not mean that the elections in the Russia-occupied districts in Donbas will be held "rain or shine."
Answering a question regarding the possibility of electing representatives of the so-called "republics" – the "Donetsk People's Republic" and the "Luhansk People's Republic", Prystaiko explained: "We are not naïve and know very well who will be running during the elections on the other side of the front. But people would at least be able to get a feeling of [involvement in] the democratic process to be held simultaneously in the occupied and free territories, and this would be an ideal opportunity for Russia to withdraw troops from our east."
As Prystaiko said earlier, the Steinmeier formula was agreed by the Ukrainian side and by the Trilateral Contact Group. "The question is how it will be implemented in Ukrainian legislation – where and to what extent. But the very idea of the formula that the final political solution lies in the field of legitimate elections, which must be confirmed by an independent international organization, is precisely a compromise reached in 2016," he told UNIAN in an interview late in 2019.


unian--2020-01-07--Pentagon chief denies U.S. is leaving Iraq – media

Esper said Washington was still committed to countering Islamic State in Iraq , alongside allies and partners .
The United States has no plans to pull its troops out of Iraq , Defense Secretary Mark Esper said on Monday , following reports by Reuters and other media of an American military letter informing Iraqi officials about repositioning troops in preparation for leaving the country .
The American military letter said U.S.-led coalition forces would use helicopters to evacuate , Reuters said .
Several were heard flying over Baghdad on Monday night , although it was not immediately clear if that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Baghdad after lawmakers call on U.S. troops to leave – media '' There 's been no decision whatsoever to leave Iraq , '' Esper told Pentagon reporters , adding there were no plans issued to prepare to leave .
`` I do n't know what that letter is ... We 're trying to find out where that 's coming from , what that is .
But there 's been no decision made to leave Iraq .
Period , '' Esper said .
The letter caused confusion about the future of U.S. forces @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A U.S.-led invasion in 2003 toppled dictator Saddam Hussein .
Longtime foes Tehran and Washington have been in a war of words since Friday , when a drone strike ordered by President Donald Trump killed Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani , widely seen as Iran 's second most powerful figure behind Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei .
Iran 's demand for U.S. forces to withdraw from the region gained traction on Sunday when Iraq 's parliament passed a resolution calling for all foreign troops to leave the country .
The top U.S. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a draft document meant only to underscore increased movement by U.S. forces .
`` Poorly worded , implies withdrawal .
That 's not what 's happening , '' said Army General Mark Milley , chairman of the military 's Joint Chiefs of Staff .
The authenticity of the letter , addressed to the Iraqi Defence Ministry 's Combined Joint Operations , had been confirmed to Reuters by an Iraqi military source .
Esper said Washington was still committed to countering Islamic State in Iraq , alongside allies and partners .

Esper said Washington was still committed to countering Islamic State in Iraq, alongside allies and partners.
The United States has no plans to pull its troops out of Iraq, Defense Secretary Mark Esper said on Monday, following reports by Reuters and other media of an American military letter informing Iraqi officials about repositioning troops in preparation for leaving the country.
The American military letter said U.S.-led coalition forces would use helicopters to evacuate, Reuters said.
Several were heard flying over Baghdad on Monday night, although it was not immediately clear if that was related.
Видео дня
Read alsoTrump threatens sanctions on Baghdad after lawmakers call on U.S. troops to leave – media
"There's been no decision whatsoever to leave Iraq," Esper told Pentagon reporters, adding there were no plans issued to prepare to leave.
"I don't know what that letter is ... We're trying to find out where that's coming from, what that is. But there's been no decision made to leave Iraq. Period," Esper said.
The letter caused confusion about the future of U.S. forces in Iraq, who now number 5,000. A U.S.-led invasion in 2003 toppled dictator Saddam Hussein.
Longtime foes Tehran and Washington have been in a war of words since Friday, when a drone strike ordered by President Donald Trump killed Iranian military commander Qassem Soleimani, widely seen as Iran's second most powerful figure behind Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Iran's demand for U.S. forces to withdraw from the region gained traction on Sunday when Iraq's parliament passed a resolution calling for all foreign troops to leave the country.
The top U.S. military officer told reporters the letter was a draft document meant only to underscore increased movement by U.S. forces. "Poorly worded, implies withdrawal. That's not what's happening," said Army General Mark Milley, chairman of the military's Joint Chiefs of Staff.
The authenticity of the letter, addressed to the Iraqi Defence Ministry's Combined Joint Operations, had been confirmed to Reuters by an Iraqi military source.
Esper said Washington was still committed to countering Islamic State in Iraq, alongside allies and partners.