unian--2020-03-15--Week's balance: Ukraine on lockdown, central bank loosens grip, and Cabinet launches war against maf

Week's balance: Ukraine on lockdown, central bank loosens grip, and Cabinet launches war against mafia in urban development

The outgoing week was marked by the introduction of a national quarantine in Ukraine in connection with the coronavirus pandemic .
The Cabinet of Ministers adopted the corresponding decision on Wednesday , March 11 .
As of Sunday , March 15 , three Covid-19 cases were officially registered in Ukraine , one of which became lethal .
Quarantine will remain effective in Ukraine from March 12 to April 3 .
For this period , the government imposed restrictions on holding mass events with over 200 participants , which does n't apply to meetings of the Verkhovna Rada and other `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ events could be held with the permission of international organizations , but without spectators .
Quarantine has also been introduced in educational facilities and kindergartens .
In addition , the government imposed a ban on the export of Ukrainian-made personal protective anti-epidemic gear , which will be in effect from March 12 to June 6 , and announced the closure of most of the checkpoints on the Ukrainian border , leaving 49 of 219 operating .
`` Every day we analyze the situation in Europe , in the world .
We see how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in Germany , in developed economies , in Asian countries .
We do not want to wait for parabolic growth to start .
We want to protect the Ukrainians as much as possible and we want to protect Ukraine so that this period can go as lightly as possible , '' the newly appointed Prime Minister , Denys Shmyhal , said , commenting on the decision to introduce protective measures .
At the same time , the government did not rule out additional restrictions .
On Friday , March 13 , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dangerous virus , the National Security and Defense Council decided to close the border for foreigners for a period of two weeks , after which , depending on how the situation develops , the move will be revised .
At the same time , as noted by the NSDC , the step will not affect international cargo transportation .
Ukrainians returning from countries where coronavirus is raging will undergo an observation procedure .
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that Ukrainians refrain from foreign travel , while a number of air carriers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cancellation of part of their flights .
Thus , Ukraine 's largest carrier , Ukraine International Airlines ( UIA ) , announced the cancellation of about 2,000 flights to 16 countries .
PM Shmyhal on Saturday also advised that Ukrainians refrain even from domestic travel .
According to the estimates by the International Air Transport Association , the losses of air carriers around the world due to the coronovirus pandemic in 2020 could amount to sums from $ 63 billion to $ 113 billion .
It is obvious that the threat of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this regard will lead to disruptions in the usual way of life and concrete economic losses .
In connection with the quarantine introduced in Ukraine , industries related to transportation and tourism , as well as the service sector , will suffer .
The cancellation of large conferences and business forums will lead to a reduction of business activity throughout the country .
Many employees will be sent to work from home , which may affect the efficiency of business processes .
So far , experts do not undertake to assess the potential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agree on one thing – negative consequences can not be avoided .
To minimize possible economic risks , an effective anti-crisis policy should be developed at the state level .
According to leading analytical centers of Ukraine , the main task for the authorities now is to continue the program of cooperation with the IMF , to support businesses by introducing tax holidays and special credit lines , as well as a sound exchange rate policy .
Meanwhile , quarantine is far from the only factor threatening economic stability .
In the midst @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economy was shocked by another event , which experts call a starting point of a new global crisis .
Saudi Arabia and Russia failed to agree to extend the deal on limiting oil output , which led to a collapse in global oil prices by a third – down to $ 34 per barrel .
This was followed by sharp drops in stocks and currencies in a number of countries .
These negative manifestations did n't bypass Ukraine either .
The domestic foreign exchange market saw some storms on Monday , while reports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fuel to the fire .
Within less than a week , the hryvnia sank five percent – as of Friday , the official national currency rate was UAH 26.09 to the dollar .
To stabilize the situation , the National Bank since week-start has sold about a billion dollars on the interbank foreign exchange market .
The cost of borrowing in the foreign market has almost doubled for Ukraine .
Last week , the newly appointed Cabinet led by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has launched its full-fledged work .
In addition to passing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a threatening coronavirus , the government also considered a number of issues on urban development .
On Friday , March 13 , the Cabinet of Ministers held a visiting meeting , attended by President Volodymyr Zelensky , where it was decided to liquidate the State Architecture and Construction Inspectorate ( SACI ) and launch urban development reform .
`` We are liquidating a monopoly in the field of urban development .
I will say three words now , which , it seems to me , the entire honest construction business of Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ liquidating the SACI .
The process of rendering public services will be transparent , the process of rendering public services will be convenient and with minimal influence of officials on such decision-making , '' Zelensky said during the meeting .
`` In our opinion , and in the opinion of all participants in the construction market , this [ SACI ] is a corruption tick that took away working capital and turnover from the construction market ...
The corruption market is enormous .
There , the numbers are impressive if you multiply square @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , by the number of construction sites .
This is probably the size of a budget of a fairly large city in Ukraine , '' said Shmyhal .
According to him , instead of the State Architecture and Construction Inspectorate , three public agencies will be created : the State Urban Planning Service , which will serve as the registry ; the State Technical Regulation Agency ( parameters , construction standards , Euro codes ) , as well as the State Urban Planning Inspectorate , which will perform functions of construction control .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ full swing from late September 2020 .
`` We will appoint the corresponding acting chiefs , who will carry out the state registration of the newly created bodies , and , accordingly , the head of the liquidation commission of the SACI , which will carry out the liquidation , will also be appointed .
It will be a transition period that will take two to three months , '' the prime minister said .
The next step the government should take is to amend current legislation and fully transfer the urban planning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the outgoing week was the NBU declaring a continued cycle of monetary policy easing .
On Friday , March 13 , the regulator reduced the discount rate by one percentage point for the sixth time in a row to a five-year low of 10 % per annum .
As before , the National Bank expects a reduction in the key rate to 7 % by the end of the year and , if developments are favorable and the new government implements reforms at a higher pace , this easing will also accelerate .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of coronavirus could lead to global recession and a significant slowdown in economic activity in Ukraine .
A major decrease in global demand , as well as investors ' reassessment of risks in developing economies may adversely affect Ukraine 's foreign trade performance and complicate attraction of financing .
Thus , the NBU board made a decision on the key rate in conditions when inflationary pressure weakens faster than expected , while the economy needs further support .
Next week will also be filled with important economic news , despite the expected decline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quarantine .
In the penultimate week of March , Parliament will return to the plenary regime to continue considering bills , while the State Statistics Service will report on the dynamics of the country 's real gross domestic product over the past year .

Ukrainian authorities announced the introduction of a nationwide quarantine, adding anxiety to the fever of the forex market; the National Bank lowered the key rate to a five-year low; while the Cabinet liquidated the urban construction regulator and launched a reform in the field – these are the main economic developments of the outgoing week.
The outgoing week was marked by the introduction of a national quarantine in Ukraine in connection with the coronavirus pandemic. The Cabinet of Ministers adopted the corresponding decision on Wednesday, March 11.
As of Sunday, March 15, three Covid-19 cases were officially registered in Ukraine, one of which became lethal.
Quarantine will remain effective in Ukraine from March 12 to April 3. For this period, the government imposed restrictions on holding mass events with over 200 participants, which doesn't apply to meetings of the Verkhovna Rada and other "events of national importance". Sporting events could be held with the permission of international organizations, but without spectators. Quarantine has also been introduced in educational facilities and kindergartens.
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In addition, the government imposed a ban on the export of Ukrainian-made personal protective anti-epidemic gear, which will be in effect from March 12 to June 6, and announced the closure of most of the checkpoints on the Ukrainian border, leaving 49 of 219 operating.
"Every day we analyze the situation in Europe, in the world. We see how rapidly the situation is developing in Italy, in Germany, in developed economies, in Asian countries. We do not want to wait for parabolic growth to start. We want to protect the Ukrainians as much as possible and we want to protect Ukraine so that this period can go as lightly as possible," the newly appointed Prime Minister, Denys Shmyhal, said, commenting on the decision to introduce protective measures.
At the same time, the government did not rule out additional restrictions.
On Friday, March 13, in order to prevent the spread of the dangerous virus, the National Security and Defense Council decided to close the border for foreigners for a period of two weeks, after which, depending on how the situation develops, the move will be revised. At the same time, as noted by the NSDC, the step will not affect international cargo transportation. Ukrainians returning from countries where coronavirus is raging will undergo an observation procedure.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that Ukrainians refrain from foreign travel, while a number of air carriers reported a reduction in frequency or complete cancellation of part of their flights. Thus, Ukraine's largest carrier, Ukraine International Airlines (UIA), announced the cancellation of about 2,000 flights to 16 countries. PM Shmyhal on Saturday also advised that Ukrainians refrain even from domestic travel.
According to the estimates by the International Air Transport Association, the losses of air carriers around the world due to the coronovirus pandemic in 2020 could amount to sums from $63 billion to $113 billion.
It is obvious that the threat of the coronavirus spread and the restrictions imposed in this regard will lead to disruptions in the usual way of life and concrete economic losses.
In connection with the quarantine introduced in Ukraine, industries related to transportation and tourism, as well as the service sector, will suffer. The cancellation of large conferences and business forums will lead to a reduction of business activity throughout the country. Many employees will be sent to work from home, which may affect the efficiency of business processes.
So far, experts do not undertake to assess the potential damage to the national economy, but agree on one thing – negative consequences cannot be avoided.
To minimize possible economic risks, an effective anti-crisis policy should be developed at the state level. According to leading analytical centers of Ukraine, the main task for the authorities now is to continue the program of cooperation with the IMF, to support businesses by introducing tax holidays and special credit lines, as well as a sound exchange rate policy.
Meanwhile, quarantine is far from the only factor threatening economic stability. In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, the world economy was shocked by another event, which experts call a starting point of a new global crisis. Saudi Arabia and Russia failed to agree to extend the deal on limiting oil output, which led to a collapse in global oil prices by a third – down to $34 per barrel. This was followed by sharp drops in stocks and currencies in a number of countries.
These negative manifestations didn't bypass Ukraine either. The domestic foreign exchange market saw some storms on Monday, while reports on the introduction of quarantine only added fuel to the fire. Within less than a week, the hryvnia sank five percent – as of Friday, the official national currency rate was UAH 26.09 to the dollar. To stabilize the situation, the National Bank since week-start has sold about a billion dollars on the interbank foreign exchange market. The cost of borrowing in the foreign market has almost doubled for Ukraine.
Fighting against mafia of urban developers
Last week, the newly appointed Cabinet led by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has launched its full-fledged work. In addition to passing decisions to protect Ukrainians from a pandemic of a threatening coronavirus, the government also considered a number of issues on urban development.
On Friday, March 13, the Cabinet of Ministers held a visiting meeting, attended by President Volodymyr Zelensky, where it was decided to liquidate the State Architecture and Construction Inspectorate (SACI) and launch urban development reform.
"We are liquidating a monopoly in the field of urban development. I will say three words now, which, it seems to me, the entire honest construction business of Ukraine has been waiting for. We are liquidating the SACI. The process of rendering public services will be transparent, the process of rendering public services will be convenient and with minimal influence of officials on such decision-making," Zelensky said during the meeting.
"In our opinion, and in the opinion of all participants in the construction market, this [SACI] is a corruption tick that took away working capital and turnover from the construction market ... The corruption market is enormous. There, the numbers are impressive if you multiply square meters, which was introduced in Ukraine, by the number of construction sites. This is probably the size of a budget of a fairly large city in Ukraine," said Shmyhal.
According to him, instead of the State Architecture and Construction Inspectorate, three public agencies will be created: the State Urban Planning Service, which will serve as the registry; the State Technical Regulation Agency (parameters, construction standards, Euro codes), as well as the State Urban Planning Inspectorate, which will perform functions of construction control. These new bodies will start working in full swing from late September 2020.
"We will appoint the corresponding acting chiefs, who will carry out the state registration of the newly created bodies, and, accordingly, the head of the liquidation commission of the SACI, which will carry out the liquidation, will also be appointed. It will be a transition period that will take two to three months," the prime minister said.
The next step the government should take is to amend current legislation and fully transfer the urban planning system online.
Key rate reduction
The good news of the outgoing week was the NBU declaring a continued cycle of monetary policy easing. On Friday, March 13, the regulator reduced the discount rate by one percentage point for the sixth time in a row to a five-year low of 10% per annum.
As before, the National Bank expects a reduction in the key rate to 7% by the end of the year and, if developments are favorable and the new government implements reforms at a higher pace, this easing will also accelerate.
At the same time, the spread of coronavirus could lead to global recession and a significant slowdown in economic activity in Ukraine. A major decrease in global demand, as well as investors' reassessment of risks in developing economies may adversely affect Ukraine's foreign trade performance and complicate attraction of financing.
Thus, the NBU board made a decision on the key rate in conditions when inflationary pressure weakens faster than expected, while the economy needs further support.
Next week will also be filled with important economic news, despite the expected decline in business activity over the introduction of quarantine. In the penultimate week of March, Parliament will return to the plenary regime to continue considering bills, while the State Statistics Service will report on the dynamics of the country's real gross domestic product over the past year.
Nadiia Burbela


unian--2020-03-15--Pandemic to change global economy – NBU deputy chief

Churiy has noted that once the pandemic is over , the economy will never be the same .
The coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ of the world economy , says Deputy Governor of the National Bank of Ukraine , @ @ @ @ @ rather difficult to predict the consequences , as the situation is developing dynamically , Churiy @ @ @ @ @ .
`` The economy is such a thing that it will adapt .
We will @ @ @ @ @ global economy in the end .
It will probably be more digitalized , some of @ @ @ @ @ home , remotely , '' he said .
In addition , Churiy believes that certain @ @ @ @ @ benefit as a result .
`` For example , it 's online services , '' @ @ @ @ @ this also applies to television products .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the National Bank @ @ @ @ @ quarantine all cash incoming from Ukrainian banks to the central repository .

Pandemic to change global economy – NBU deputy chief
12:40, 15.03.20 11852
Churiy has noted that once the pandemic is over, the economy will never be the same.
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unian--2020-03-15--Quarantine in Ukraine: PM urges citizens to refrain even from domestic travel

The Covid-19 response headquarters has been set up to efforts against the coronavirus .
Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal in a video address has urged Ukrainians to refrain from traveling , even within the country 's borders .
`` Today , the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine took a number of steps to implement the decision of the National Security and Defense Council .
They are aimed at countering and preventing the spread of coronavirus in Ukraine , '' he said in the corresponding appeal posted on his Facebook page Saturday .
`` Today , Ukraine remains a country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a moderate scenario , '' he said .
`` Fortunately , there are no clusters and major outbreaks of the disease . ''
`` We are doing everything so that they do not emerge , '' said Shmyhal .
The Covid-19 response headquarters has been set up to efforts against the coronavirus , process the latest data on coronavirus and provide analytical findings .
Shmyhal also emphasized that from 00:00 on Monday , March 16 , Ukraine will close its borders for foreigners .
`` From March 16 , we will shut border @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other countries .
Therefore , I urge citizens of Ukraine who are now abroad to return home as soon as possible , '' Smyhal added .
UNIAN memo .
As of the morning of Sunday , March 15 , three lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus have been detected in Ukraine .
One of the cases recorded turned out to be lethal .
On March 11 , the Cabinet of Ministers decided to introduce quarantine across Ukraine from March 12 to April 3 .
All educational facilities shall suspend operations for three weeks , while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been canceled or rescheduled .
The terms of quarantine may change depending on the development of the epidemiological situation in Ukraine .

The Covid-19 response headquarters has been set up to efforts against the coronavirus.
Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal in a video address has urged Ukrainians to refrain from traveling, even within the country's borders.
"Today, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine took a number of steps to implement the decision of the National Security and Defense Council. They are aimed at countering and preventing the spread of coronavirus in Ukraine," he said in the corresponding appeal posted on his Facebook page Saturday.
"Today, Ukraine remains a country where the situation with coronavirus develops by a moderate scenario," he said. "Fortunately, there are no clusters and major outbreaks of the disease."
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"We are doing everything so that they do not emerge," said Shmyhal.
The Covid-19 response headquarters has been set up to efforts against the coronavirus, process the latest data on coronavirus and provide analytical findings.
Shmyhal also emphasized that from 00:00 on Monday, March 16, Ukraine will close its borders for foreigners.
Read alsoCoronavirus update: Ukraine to suspend all air travel March 17
"From March 16, we will shut border checkpoints and passenger traffic between Ukraine and other countries. Therefore, I urge citizens of Ukraine who are now abroad to return home as soon as possible," Smyhal added.
UNIAN memo. As of the morning of Sunday, March 15, three lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus have been detected in Ukraine. One of the cases recorded turned out to be lethal.
On March 11, the Cabinet of Ministers decided to introduce quarantine across Ukraine from March 12 to April 3.
All educational facilities shall suspend operations for three weeks, while all public events across the country have been canceled or rescheduled.
The terms of quarantine may change depending on the development of the epidemiological situation in Ukraine.


unian--2020-03-15--Another Ukrainian soldier wounded as enemy forces continue violating ceasefire

The soldier sustained a gunshot wound to the arm .
From day-start on Sunday , March 15 , Russian occupation @ @ @ @ @ Ukrainian positions , using grenade launchers , heavy machine guns , and small arms .
@ @ @ @ @ in one of the attacks , according to the morning update of the Joint Operation @ @ @ @ @ a gunshot wound to the arm , the report says , adding that the serviceman @ @ @ @ @ past day , March 14 , Russian occupation forces nine times violated the truce .
@ @ @ @ @ to Ukrainian captives in occupied Donbas to speed up their release – Yermak The enemy @ @ @ @ @ mm and 82 mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements , as well as grenade @ @ @ @ @ heavy machine guns , and small arms .
Earlier , President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky @ @ @ @ @ military maximum protection from the coronavirus .

The soldier sustained a gunshot wound to the arm.
From day-start on Sunday, March 15, Russian occupation forces twice opened fire at Ukrainian positions, using grenade launchers, heavy machine guns, and small arms.
A Ukrainian soldier was wounded in one of the attacks, according to the morning update of the Joint Operation Forces HQ.
He sustained a gunshot wound to the arm, the report says, adding that the serviceman was hospitalized.
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Over the past day, March 14, Russian occupation forces nine times violated the truce.
Read alsoICRC to have access to Ukrainian captives in occupied Donbas to speed up their release – Yermak
The enemy engaged Ukrainian positions with 120 mm and 82 mm mortars proscribed by the Minsk agreements, as well as grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and small arms.
Earlier, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky promised to ensure for Ukrainian military maximum protection from the coronavirus.


unian--2020-03-15--Only pharmacies, grocery stores should remain open: Ukraine's health chief on minimizing Covid-19 sp

Only pharmacies, grocery stores should remain open: Ukraine's health chief on minimizing Covid-19 spread

The minister said that it was necessary to shut down restaurants , cafes , and shopping malls , as well as limit people 's movement across the country .
The threat posed by the coronavirus is greater than ever , so the authorities must act immediately .
In particular , shut down catering establishments and shopping malls , says Minister of Health Ilya Yemets .
On his Facebook page , he claimed someone had been telling him not to `` escalate the situation , because it supposedly wreaks havoc . ''
`` But I should remind you that we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to hush up the truth , '' the head of the Ministry of Health noted .
`` Financial well-being or social status do n't matter to the infection .
World-famous politicians , actors , and ordinary people get sick .
Today , enemy No.1 not only for Ukrainian society , but for the whole world is a deadly infection , coronavirus , '' the minister wrote .
According to him , the world community did not immediately recognize the magnitude of the threat .
`` By the bitter example of other countries , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Each hour can cost hundreds or even thousands of human lives , '' the minister wrote .
“ We have no right to wait for the mass spread of infection among Ukrainians .
We must act immediately and be proactive , act tough and without exceptions , '' said Yemets .
He said that it was necessary to close public catering establishments and shopping centers , sparing only pharmacies and grocery stores .
It is also necessary to restrict movement within the country , Yemets believes , as well as introduce a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ review the mode of public transport operations and limit the permitted attendance at gatherings to 10 people .
`` Hospitals should be immediately reorganized to host infected patients , taking into account the developments .
Only urgent cases need to be handled .
All planned activities should be canceled and all resources allocated to prepare for the fight against infection .
In addition , the Ministry of Health is actively collecting the best epidemiologists in Ukraine and including them in the Operational Headquarters so that we can respond even faster to the new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the minister .
Yemets called on Ukrainians not to be frivolous and not to panic , but to mobilize , get themselves together and help themselves , their loved ones , and their fellow citizens .
`` Successful experience in other countries has shown that self-isolation is the most effective way to prevent the spread of the disease .
Be responsible , take care of yourself and your loved ones , '' the minister summed up .

The minister said that it was necessary to shut down restaurants, cafes, and shopping malls, as well as limit people's movement across the country.
The threat posed by the coronavirus is greater than ever, so the authorities must act immediately. In particular, shut down catering establishments and shopping malls, says Minister of Health Ilya Yemets.
On his Facebook page, he claimed someone had been telling him not to "escalate the situation, because it supposedly wreaks havoc."
"But I should remind you that we are not in a totalitarian state in order to hush up the truth," the head of the Ministry of Health noted.
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"Financial well-being or social status don't matter to the infection. World-famous politicians, actors, and ordinary people get sick. Today, enemy No.1 not only for Ukrainian society, but for the whole world is a deadly infection, coronavirus," the minister wrote.
According to him, the world community did not immediately recognize the magnitude of the threat.
"By the bitter example of other countries, we see what delay can lead to. Each hour can cost hundreds or even thousands of human lives," the minister wrote. “We have no right to wait for the mass spread of infection among Ukrainians. We must act immediately and be proactive, act tough and without exceptions," said Yemets.
Read alsoUkraine suspends all railway traffic with Poland
He said that it was necessary to close public catering establishments and shopping centers, sparing only pharmacies and grocery stores. It is also necessary to restrict movement within the country, Yemets believes, as well as introduce a remote mode of work for employees, review the mode of public transport operations and limit the permitted attendance at gatherings to 10 people.
"Hospitals should be immediately reorganized to host infected patients, taking into account the developments. Only urgent cases need to be handled. All planned activities should be canceled and all resources allocated to prepare for the fight against infection. In addition, the Ministry of Health is actively collecting the best epidemiologists in Ukraine and including them in the Operational Headquarters so that we can respond even faster to the new challenges that the epidemic poses," said the minister.
Yemets called on Ukrainians not to be frivolous and not to panic, but to mobilize, get themselves together and help themselves, their loved ones, and their fellow citizens.
Read alsoPandemic to change global economy – NBU deputy chief
"Successful experience in other countries has shown that self-isolation is the most effective way to prevent the spread of the disease. Be responsible, take care of yourself and your loved ones," the minister summed up.


unian--2020-03-15--Ukraine suspends all railway traffic with Poland

At the same time , Russia and Belarus canceled trains from and to Ukraine .
Ukraine 's state-owned railway operator @ @ @ @ @ between Ukraine and Poland has been suspended .
Passengers are offered refunds for their tickets @ @ @ @ @ .
At the same time , Russia canceled trains from and to Ukraine and Moldova @ @ @ @ @ spread of the [ coronavirus ] epidemic '' , Russian Railways reported on its website @ @ @ @ @ also canceled its railway passenger traffic with Ukraine .
UNIAN memo .
As of the @ @ @ @ @ 15 , three lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus have been detected in Ukraine .
One of @ @ @ @ @ to be lethal .
On March 11 , the Cabinet of Ministers decided to introduce @ @ @ @ @ 12 to April 3 .
All educational facilities shall suspend operations for three weeks , @ @ @ @ @ the country have been canceled or rescheduled .
The terms of quarantine may change depending @ @ @ @ @ epidemiological situation in Ukraine .

Ukraine suspends all railway traffic with Poland
20:00, 15.03.20 47022
At the same time, Russia and Belarus canceled trains from and to Ukraine.
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unian--2020-03-15--Ukraine's Health Ministry suggests shutting down all cafes, restaurants pending quarantine

The minister believes the government should take more pro-active preventive measures .
Minister of Health of Ukraine Ilya Yemets recommends considering the possibility of restricting operations of public catering establishments over the threat of coronavirus Covid-19 spread .
The measure should be taken before the epidemic situation in the country worsens , Yemets said during a discussion of the bill on battling coronavirus , currently being drafted by the Ministry of Health .
`` The experience of foreign countries says that shutting down public catering establishments is an effective measure in the fight against coronavirus .
I believe that we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clearly and decisively .
That is why it would be advisable to consider the possibility of restricting operations of public catering establishments due to the coronavirus , '' said Ilya Emets .
Read alsoQuarantine in Ukraine : PM urges citizens to refrain even from domestic travel As UNIAN reported earlier , in Ukraine today there have been three lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus infection , while one of those patients died .
On March 11 , the Cabinet of Ministers decided to introduce quarantine across Ukraine from March 12 to April 3 .
Educational @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and all public events in the country have been canceled .
The terms of quarantine may change depending on the epidemic situation in Ukraine .

The minister believes the government should take more pro-active preventive measures.
Minister of Health of Ukraine Ilya Yemets recommends considering the possibility of restricting operations of public catering establishments over the threat of coronavirus Covid-19 spread.
The measure should be taken before the epidemic situation in the country worsens, Yemets said during a discussion of the bill on battling coronavirus, currently being drafted by the Ministry of Health.
"The experience of foreign countries says that shutting down public catering establishments is an effective measure in the fight against coronavirus. I believe that we need to be proactive, and act clearly and decisively. That is why it would be advisable to consider the possibility of restricting operations of public catering establishments due to the coronavirus," said Ilya Emets.
Видео дня
Read alsoQuarantine in Ukraine: PM urges citizens to refrain even from domestic travel
As UNIAN reported earlier, in Ukraine today there have been three lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus infection, while one of those patients died.
On March 11, the Cabinet of Ministers decided to introduce quarantine across Ukraine from March 12 to April 3. Educational facilities will be closed for three weeks, and all public events in the country have been canceled.
The terms of quarantine may change depending on the epidemic situation in Ukraine.


unian--2020-03-15--Dutch researches reportedly discover antibody against coronavirus

The antibody still has to be tested on humans .
A world premiere from Erasmus MC and Utrecht University : they found an antibody against COVID-19 .
The scientific publication of the group of ten scientists is ready for assessment by the leading journal Nature .
Professor of cell biology Frank Grosveld ( 71 ) keeps his cool : “ I am too old to jump on a table , ” Erasmus Magazine reports .
Since Thursday evening , the article by a team of ten scientists , of which Grosveld is a member , has been online on BioRxiv @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their research before it will be assessed by the prestigious journal Nature .
In the summary , the scientists describe an antibody to SARS2 , the coronavirus causing the current pandemic ( COVID-19 ) .
The antibody can help detect and prevent this type of corona infection .
It is a world 's first .
Read alsoQuarantine in Ukraine : PM urges citizens to refrain even from domestic travel The antibody still has to be tested on humans ( and this will take months ) and the article is under peer review before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is hopeful : `` We expect an email any moment . ''
says the Spinoza Prize winner in his lab on the tenth floor .

The antibody still has to be tested on humans.
A world premiere from Erasmus MC and Utrecht University: they found an antibody against COVID-19. The scientific publication of the group of ten scientists is ready for assessment by the leading journal Nature.
Professor of cell biology Frank Grosveld (71) keeps his cool: “I am too old to jump on a table,” Erasmus Magazine reports.
Since Thursday evening, the article by a team of ten scientists, of which Grosveld is a member, has been online on BioRxiv – a website where biologists can publish their research before it will be assessed by the prestigious journal Nature. In the summary, the scientists describe an antibody to SARS2, the coronavirus causing the current pandemic (COVID-19). The antibody can help detect and prevent this type of corona infection. It is a world's first.
Видео дня
Read alsoQuarantine in Ukraine: PM urges citizens to refrain even from domestic travel
The antibody still has to be tested on humans (and this will take months) and the article is under peer review before Nature will publish it. But Grosveld is hopeful: "We expect an email any moment." says the Spinoza Prize winner in his lab on the tenth floor.


unian--2020-03-15--Naftogaz expects arbitration hearing on Crimea asset losses as early as May

With interest , Naftogaz 's claims against Russia amount to $ 8 billion .
National Joint-Stock Company Naftogaz of Ukraine and six companies that are part of Naftogaz Group are awaiting hearings in May on the amount of compensation for losses as part of the arbitration process launched against Russia regarding the seizure of the company 's assets in Crimea .
That 's according to the company press service .
`` Naftogaz and six companies that are part of the Group demand compensation from Russia for losses inflicted by the illegal expropriation of Crimean assets .
We estimate the amount @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 8 billion .
An oral hearing on the amount of compensation will be held in May 2020 in The Hague , '' the report said .
According to the press service , a final decision on the amount of compensation is expected by mid-2021 .
Read alsoNaftogaz reveals how much gas Russia stole in Crimea during occupation As UNIAN reported earlier , as a result of Russia 's annexation of Crimea in 2014 , Naftogaz 's subsidiary Chornomornaftogaz lost its main assets ( in particular , Petro Hodovanets and Ukraina drilling platforms ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gas deposits in the Black Sea offshore zone .
To protect its interests , Naftogaz in October 2016 initiated arbitration in accordance with the agreement between the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and the government of the Russian Federation on the promotion and mutual protection of investment , better known as the Russian-Ukrainian bilateral investment agreement .
On September 15 , 2017 , Naftogaz reported that the state-run holding had filed a lawsuit against Russia demanding US $ 5 billion in compensation of losses caused by the occupation .
Taking into account the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ estimated at US $ 8 billion .

Naftogaz expects arbitration hearing on Crimea asset losses as early as May
16:10, 15.03.20 4773
With interest, Naftogaz's claims against Russia amount to $8 billion.
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unian--2020-03-15--U.S. imposes sanctions on another two Russian companies

The relevant information was posted in the electronic database of the U.S. Federal Register .
The U.S. Department of Commerce @ @ @ @ @ Ltd. and Technomar .
The relevant information was posted in the electronic database of the @ @ @ @ @ reports .
The two firms were put on the sanction list because they `` are @ @ @ @ @ listed entity in circumvention of licensing requirements by procuring U.S.-origin items for Technopole Company , @ @ @ @ @ Entity List on September 7 , 2016 , '' the report says .
Read alsoU.S @ @ @ @ @ Russia 's Rosneft over Venezuela oil As UNIAN reported earlier , the EU Council on @ @ @ @ @ decided that current sanctions in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity , @ @ @ @ @ should be extended for a further six months until September 15 , 2020 .
`` @ @ @ @ @ only for a freezing of funds , but also a prohibition against making funds or @ @ @ @ @ the listed persons , '' the statement reads .

The relevant information was posted in the electronic database of the U.S. Federal Register.
The U.S. Department of Commerce has blacklisted Russian companies Avilon Ltd. and Technomar.
The relevant information was posted in the electronic database of the U.S. Federal Register, TASS reports.
The two firms were put on the sanction list because they "are acting on behalf of a listed entity in circumvention of licensing requirements by procuring U.S.-origin items for Technopole Company, which was added to the Entity List on September 7, 2016," the report says.
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Read alsoU.S. sanctions another subsidiary of Russia's Rosneft over Venezuela oil
As UNIAN reported earlier, the EU Council on Friday, March 13, decided that current sanctions in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine should be extended for a further six months until September 15, 2020.
"These restrictive measures provide not only for a freezing of funds, but also a prohibition against making funds or other economic resources available to the listed persons," the statement reads.


unian--2020-03-16--CNN: A Giuliani ally offered cash to lobby U.S. senators on behalf of pro-Russian TV stations

In a telephone interview on Friday , Telizhenko said he had indeed contacted a small number of people including Davidzon on behalf of 112 UA and News One .
When Republican lawmakers this week abruptly canceled a plan to subpoena a former Ukrainian official in their investigations into the energy firm that hired former Vice President Joe Biden 's son , they said it was to allow more time for senators to receive additional briefings .
But a Ukrainian magazine editor has told CNN that the target of the subpoena , Andrii Telizhenko , once offered him money to lobby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outlets .
A former Ukrainian diplomat , Telizhenko is an ally of Trump 's personal lawyer , Rudy Giuliani , and has been an enthusiastic proponent of the debunked theory that Ukraine , and not Russia , interfered in the 2016 U.S. elections .
Telizhenko has also backed Republican claims that Trump 's Democratic rival , Joe Biden , shut down an investigation into the Ukrainian gas company Burisma when his son , Hunter , served on its board .
Biden has consistently denied any wrongdoing .
The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subpoena Telizhenko earlier this week , amid accusations from Democrats that the investigation was calculated to damage Biden 's presidential bid .
Questions also swirled about Telizhenko 's reliability as a witness – the FBI briefed staff on issues connected to the subpoena on Tuesday , the day before the committee was supposed to vote , according to a Senate Democratic aide .
Telizhenko says he 's the victim of a smear campaign and flatly denied to CNN he was a `` Russian agent . ''
In a development that could raise more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Davidzon , who runs a magazine called the Odessa Review , has told CNN that Telizhenko offered him $ 5,000 in 2018 to approach prominent Republicans to speak out against efforts by Kyiv to curb the influence of two TV stations .
CNN has reviewed a series of messages between the two men that came against the backdrop of an attempt by Ukrainian lawmakers to censure two channels , 112 UA and News One , for allegedly broadcasting Russian propaganda in the years following Moscow 's annexation of Crimea in 2014 .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lawmakers voted in favor of a resolution to sanction the two stations , Telizhenko wrote to Davidzon , asking : `` Have a question do you or your father have contacts with U.S .
Senators ?
I really need a favour for witch ( sic ) I can pay up to 5k . ''
Davidzon , 35 , is the son of influential U.S.-based Russian language media owner Gregory Davidzon – once dubbed `` The Kingmaker of Little Russia '' in a 2012 profile by The New York Times .
After expressing concerns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shut the broadcasters down , Telizhenko then says : `` My question is is it possible to get an official comment on a Senators ( Rand Paul , Lindsey Graham for example ) website next week about this situation of censorship in Ukraine ?
Really important for me and need fast . ''
Davidzon replies : `` Ok .
I have a bit of time .
But not sure what I can do . ''
Davidzon told CNN that he considered the offer of money to target senators like Graham was `` improper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ U.S. lawmakers as a result .
In a telephone interview on Friday , Telizhenko said he had indeed contacted a small number of people including Davidzon on behalf of 112 and News One .
He said the approaches were made on his own initiative and that the money he offered was his own , for expenses incurred .

In a telephone interview on Friday, Telizhenko said he had indeed contacted a small number of people including Davidzon on behalf of 112 UA and News One.
When Republican lawmakers this week abruptly canceled a plan to subpoena a former Ukrainian official in their investigations into the energy firm that hired former Vice President Joe Biden's son, they said it was to allow more time for senators to receive additional briefings.
But a Ukrainian magazine editor has told CNN that the target of the subpoena, Andrii Telizhenko, once offered him money to lobby U.S. senators on behalf of pro-Russian media outlets.
A former Ukrainian diplomat, Telizhenko is an ally of Trump's personal lawyer, Rudy Giuliani, and has been an enthusiastic proponent of the debunked theory that Ukraine, and not Russia, interfered in the 2016 U.S. elections. Telizhenko has also backed Republican claims that Trump's Democratic rival, Joe Biden, shut down an investigation into the Ukrainian gas company Burisma when his son, Hunter, served on its board. Biden has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
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The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee called off a vote to subpoena Telizhenko earlier this week, amid accusations from Democrats that the investigation was calculated to damage Biden's presidential bid.
Questions also swirled about Telizhenko's reliability as a witness – the FBI briefed staff on issues connected to the subpoena on Tuesday, the day before the committee was supposed to vote, according to a Senate Democratic aide. Telizhenko says he's the victim of a smear campaign and flatly denied to CNN he was a "Russian agent."
In a development that could raise more questions about Telizhenko's reliability, Vladislav Davidzon, who runs a magazine called the Odessa Review, has told CNN that Telizhenko offered him $5,000 in 2018 to approach prominent Republicans to speak out against efforts by Kyiv to curb the influence of two TV stations.
Read alsoNYT: Senate panel delays subpoena vote over concerns about Ukraine witness
CNN has reviewed a series of messages between the two men that came against the backdrop of an attempt by Ukrainian lawmakers to censure two channels, 112 UA and News One, for allegedly broadcasting Russian propaganda in the years following Moscow's annexation of Crimea in 2014.
In October 2018, the same month that lawmakers voted in favor of a resolution to sanction the two stations, Telizhenko wrote to Davidzon, asking: "Have a question do you or your father have contacts with U.S. Senators? I really need a favour for witch (sic) I can pay up to 5k."
Davidzon, 35, is the son of influential U.S.-based Russian language media owner Gregory Davidzon – once dubbed "The Kingmaker of Little Russia" in a 2012 profile by The New York Times.
After expressing concerns about how the new Ukrainian proposals could shut the broadcasters down, Telizhenko then says: "My question is is it possible to get an official comment on a Senators (Rand Paul, Lindsey Graham for example) website next week about this situation of censorship in Ukraine? Really important for me and need fast."
Davidzon replies: "Ok. I have a bit of time. But not sure what I can do."
Davidzon told CNN that he considered the offer of money to target senators like Graham was "improper" and never reached out to any U.S. lawmakers as a result.
In a telephone interview on Friday, Telizhenko said he had indeed contacted a small number of people including Davidzon on behalf of 112 and News One. He said the approaches were made on his own initiative and that the money he offered was his own, for expenses incurred.


unian--2020-03-16--National Bank spends almost US$1 bln last week to support hryvnia

The volume of currency sales has exceeded its purchase volume by US $ 351.8 million since the beginning of the year .
The National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) spent US $ 981.6 million from reserves to support the hryvnia , Ukraine 's national currency , on March 10-13 .
The regulator sold US $ 270 million on the interbank foreign exchange market on Tuesday , March 10 , about US $ 350 million on Wednesday , over US $ 220 million on Thursday , and almost US $ 150 million on Friday to stabilize the hryvnia , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ buy foreign currency during the week , resulting in the volume of currency sales has exceeded its purchase volume by US $ 351.8 million since the beginning of the year .
Today , March 16 , the regulator plans to sell US $ 200 million on the interbank foreign exchange market .
Read alsoFinance ministry not to revise national budget until updated outlook released The U.S. dollar tumbled against the hryvnia , Ukraine 's national currency , to UAH 26.90 , in Kyiv 's currency exchange booths on the morning of Monday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increased demand for currency this week , which is formed by Ukrainian companies .
However , the foreign currency purchases by non-residents to withdraw from domestic government loan bonds market is not yet significant , according to the NBU .
Ukraine 's foreign reserves as of March 1 , 2020 , amounted to $ 26.6 billion , which is 1.3 % higher than a month earlier .
In 2019 , Ukraine saw a 22 % increase in its international reserves , to US $ 25.3 billion , which was a seven-year high .

National Bank spends almost US$1 bln last week to support hryvnia
14:00, 16.03.20 4065
The volume of currency sales has exceeded its purchase volume by US$351.8 million since the beginning of the year.
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unian--2020-03-16--Turkey once again declares its non-recognition of Russian annexation of Ukraine's Crimea

Turkey has reiterated support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine .
Turkey has once again declared its non-recognition of the Russian annexations of the Crimean Autonomous Republic of Ukraine .
`` Turkey and the international community do not recognize the illegal annexation of the Crimean Autonomous Republic of Ukraine by the Russian Federation based on an illegitimate referendum which was held six years ago today , '' the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey said in a press release regarding the sixth anniversary of the illegal annexation of Crimea .
It is noted it continues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Crimean Tatars , as a constituent people of Crimea , continue to live in wellbeing and security in their historical homeland , protect their cultural identity , and that their suffering resulting from the occupation is brought to an end .
`` On this occasion , we confirm once again our support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine , strategic partner of Turkey , '' reads the report .
UNIAN memo .
Russia annexed Ukraine 's Crimea in March 2014 after its troops had occupied the peninsula .
An illegal referendum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accession to Russia .
De-facto Crimean authorities reported that allegedly 96.77 % of the Crimean population had voted for joining Russia .
On March 18 , 2014 , the so-called agreement on the accession of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol to Russia was signed in the Kremlin .
The West did not recognize the annexation in response to which sanctions against Russia were introduced .
Ukraine 's parliament voted to designate February 20 , 2014 , as the official date when the temporary occupation of Crimea began .

Turkey has reiterated support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine.
Turkey has once again declared its non-recognition of the Russian annexations of the Crimean Autonomous Republic of Ukraine.
"Turkey and the international community do not recognize the illegal annexation of the Crimean Autonomous Republic of Ukraine by the Russian Federation based on an illegitimate referendum which was held six years ago today," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey said in a press release regarding the sixth anniversary of the illegal annexation of Crimea.
It is noted it continues to be a priority for Turkey that Crimean Tatars, as a constituent people of Crimea, continue to live in wellbeing and security in their historical homeland, protect their cultural identity, and that their suffering resulting from the occupation is brought to an end.
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Read alsoTurkish position on Crimea "firm" – envoy
"On this occasion, we confirm once again our support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, strategic partner of Turkey," reads the report.
UNIAN memo. Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimea in March 2014 after its troops had occupied the peninsula. An illegal referendum was held for Crimeans to decide on accession to Russia. De-facto Crimean authorities reported that allegedly 96.77% of the Crimean population had voted for joining Russia. On March 18, 2014, the so-called agreement on the accession of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol to Russia was signed in the Kremlin. The West did not recognize the annexation in response to which sanctions against Russia were introduced. Ukraine's parliament voted to designate February 20, 2014, as the official date when the temporary occupation of Crimea began.


unian--2020-03-16--Kyiv shutting down all shops, cafes, leaving only grocery stores, pharmacies and gas stations open t

Kyiv shutting down all shops, cafes, leaving only grocery stores, pharmacies and gas stations open to public

No restrictions have been set so far on municipal transport .
Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko on Monday , March 16 , said all shops and catering facilities will be closed in the city starting March 17 .
In a video message published on Facebook , Klitschko said trips between the city of Kyiv and other settlements of Ukraine would be limited as much as possible since March 17 , as well as holding cultural , sports , social , religious and other events implying mass attendance , as well as the work of catering establishments .
In particular , fast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bars shall suspend operations , except for rendering food delivery services .
Shopping malls shall be closed as well , with the exception of grocery and hardware stores and pharmacies .
Gas stations , banks and ATMs will operate as usual .
The work of sports complexes is suspended ; as well as public service institutions ; SPA salons , beauty salons , saunas , beauty parlors , massage parlors , hairdressers , tattoo parlors , and entertainment venues , such as discos , night clubs , and game clubs .
Klitschko says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ normal mode to ensure safety of residents of the capital .
Departments of Kyiv City State Administration are instructed regarding the temporary ban on collegial meetings , public hearings , and personal receptions of citizens .
Centers for administrative services will accept citizens , but only by prior online appointment .
At the same time , heads of enterprises , institutions and organizations , regardless of ownership and subordination , should maximize remote work options for employees , as well as introduce a preventive monitoring regime for employees who recently arrived from countries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ With regard to public transport , we are not limiting its use yet .
But we hope that the people of Kyiv will be conscious not to move around the city unless it 's absolutely necessary – to work ( those who work ) , to grocery stores , or to a pharmacy .
All public transport is disinfected several times a day .
We ask passengers to wear face masks while traveling in the subway !
This is your safety and the safety of those around you , '' Klitschko added .

No restrictions have been set so far on municipal transport.
Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko on Monday, March 16, said all shops and catering facilities will be closed in the city starting March 17.
The shutdown spares grocery stores, pharmacies, and gas stations.
In a video message published on Facebook, Klitschko said trips between the city of Kyiv and other settlements of Ukraine would be limited as much as possible since March 17, as well as holding cultural, sports, social, religious and other events implying mass attendance, as well as the work of catering establishments.
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In particular, fast food establishments, restaurants, cafes, bars shall suspend operations, except for rendering food delivery services.
Read alsoAnother two coronavirus cases confirmed in Ukraine
Shopping malls shall be closed as well, with the exception of grocery and hardware stores and pharmacies. Gas stations, banks and ATMs will operate as usual.
The work of sports complexes is suspended; as well as public service institutions; SPA salons, beauty salons, saunas, beauty parlors, massage parlors, hairdressers, tattoo parlors, and entertainment venues, such as discos, night clubs, and game clubs.
Klitschko says the city government will keep working in normal mode to ensure safety of residents of the capital. Departments of Kyiv City State Administration are instructed regarding the temporary ban on collegial meetings, public hearings, and personal receptions of citizens. Centers for administrative services will accept citizens, but only by prior online appointment.
At the same time, heads of enterprises, institutions and organizations, regardless of ownership and subordination, should maximize remote work options for employees, as well as introduce a preventive monitoring regime for employees who recently arrived from countries with high coronavirus infection risk.
Read alsoUkraine evacuates 123 citizens from Italy
"With regard to public transport, we are not limiting its use yet. But we hope that the people of Kyiv will be conscious not to move around the city unless it's absolutely necessary – to work (those who work), to grocery stores, or to a pharmacy. All public transport is disinfected several times a day. We ask passengers to wear face masks while traveling in the subway! This is your safety and the safety of those around you," Klitschko added.


unian--2020-03-16--Ukraine's Parliament accuses Russia of trying to disrupt Donbas settlement process

One of the MPs noted the aggressive behavior of Russian invaders in eastern Ukraine .
Russia is trying to disrupt Minsk talks on Donbas settlement , while recent statements by President Vladimir Putin are critical of the Minsk process , says head of the parliamentary committee on foreign policy Oleksandr Merezhko .
In an interview with RBC-Ukraine , answering the question on whether serious progress was made to allow holding the next Normandy Four summit anytime soon , Merezhko said : `` Speaking of my subjective opinion , there used to be relative silence at the front , but in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ occupation forces intensified . ''
These forces , the MP stresses , are controlled by Russia , while everything that is happening there is done either by order or with the consent of the Russian president .
Read alsoDivine retribution .
Will The Hague Tribunal bring Russian killers of MH17 passengers to justice '' This is , in a sense , an attempt to disrupt the Minsk process , and Putin 's statements are also critical of the Minsk process .
Russia may behave relatively calmly only under the powerful pressure of other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under the pressure of sanctions .
Without such pressure , the degree of their aggressiveness always rises , '' he said .
Earlier , the Ukrainian President ’ s Office said the next stage of a prisoner swap to take back Ukrainians held in the occupied areas in Donbas could take place in the coming months .

One of the MPs noted the aggressive behavior of Russian invaders in eastern Ukraine.
Russia is trying to disrupt Minsk talks on Donbas settlement, while recent statements by President Vladimir Putin are critical of the Minsk process, says head of the parliamentary committee on foreign policy Oleksandr Merezhko.
In an interview with RBC-Ukraine, answering the question on whether serious progress was made to allow holding the next Normandy Four summit anytime soon, Merezhko said: "Speaking of my subjective opinion, there used to be relative silence at the front, but in recent days, aggressive behavior of Russian occupation forces intensified."
These forces, the MP stresses, are controlled by Russia, while everything that is happening there is done either by order or with the consent of the Russian president.
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Read alsoDivine retribution. Will The Hague Tribunal bring Russian killers of MH17 passengers to justice
"This is, in a sense, an attempt to disrupt the Minsk process, and Putin's statements are also critical of the Minsk process. Russia may behave relatively calmly only under the powerful pressure of other countries, the USA, Europe – under the pressure of sanctions. Without such pressure, the degree of their aggressiveness always rises," he said.
Earlier, the Ukrainian President’s Office said the next stage of a prisoner swap to take back Ukrainians held in the occupied areas in Donbas could take place in the coming months.


unian--2020-03-16--Ukraine temporarily stops issuing visas over coronavirus spread

No walk-in applications will be received up to further notice .
Ukraine has temporarily stopped issuing visas over the spread @ @ @ @ @ `` Starting from March 14 , 2020 , Directorate General for Consular Service of the @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine will be closed to applicants due to comprehensive quarantine measures introduced by the Government @ @ @ @ @ Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine said in an urgent announcement on March 16 , @ @ @ @ @ no walk-in applications will be received up to further notice .
As UNIAN reported earlier @ @ @ @ @ the Cabinet of Ministers decided to introduce quarantine across Ukraine from March 12 to April @ @ @ @ @ , Ukraine temporarily banned the entry of foreigners and closed the international regular passenger service @ @ @ @ @ from March 17 to April 3 .

No walk-in applications will be received up to further notice.
Ukraine has temporarily stopped issuing visas over the spread of the novel coronavirus.
"Starting from March 14, 2020, Directorate General for Consular Service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine will be closed to applicants due to comprehensive quarantine measures introduced by the Government of Ukraine," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine said in an urgent announcement on March 16, 2020.
It is noted no walk-in applications will be received up to further notice.
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Read alsoCoronavirus update: Ukraine to suspend all air travel March 17
As UNIAN reported earlier, on March 11, the Cabinet of Ministers decided to introduce quarantine across Ukraine from March 12 to April 3.
In this regard, Ukraine temporarily banned the entry of foreigners and closed the international regular passenger service. Borders will be closed from March 17 to April 3.


unian--2020-03-16--National Bank to sell US$200 mln on March 16 to support hryvnia

According to dealers of commercial banks , trading in the interbank foreign exchange market has not yet begun .
The National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) will sell US $ 200 million on the interbank foreign exchange market on March 16 .
The banks ' bids are accepted until 12:30 Kyiv time , and the auction results will be published on the regulator 's website , as reported by the NBU .
The regulator sold US $ 270 million on the interbank foreign exchange market on Tuesday , March 10 , about US $ 350 million on Wednesday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and almost US $ 150 million on Friday to stabilize the hryvnia .
According to dealers of commercial banks , trading in the interbank foreign exchange market has not yet begun .
The U.S. dollar tumbled against the hryvnia , Ukraine 's national currency , to UAH 26.90 , in Kyiv 's currency exchange booths on the morning of Monday , March 16 .
There has been an increased demand for currency this week , which is formed by Ukrainian companies .
However , the foreign currency purchases by non-residents to withdraw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not yet significant , according to the NBU .

National Bank to sell US$200 mln on March 16 to support hryvnia
11:55, 16.03.20 302
According to dealers of commercial banks, trading in the interbank foreign exchange market has not yet begun.
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unian--2020-03-16--Divine retribution. Will The Hague Tribunal bring Russian killers of MH17 passengers to justice

The Dutch court held the first two hearings in the MH17 case and adjourned until March 23 .
Meanwhile , the Kremlin leaders have never been so close to the dock .
Six years after the terrible plane crash that left 298 people dead , trees have grown a bit at the MH17 victims ' national park and the wounds of those who have lost loved ones healed , but will never be forgotten .
That 's because the peaceful and wealthy country has n't encountered such shocking events since World War 2 .
`` This is my brother .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and their son .
They all died in the crash .
My brother is one of the two whose body has n't been identified yet .
Nothing was found from him – no body remains , no belongings , '' says MH17 foundation chairman Pete Plug .
He knows almost everything about the attack on the passenger jet flight MH17 .
If the investigation does n't reveal some things to the relatives of the victims , they explain why .
But Pete knows almost everything .
And now there is only one thing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Our relatives have died in a terrible way and we will not get them back .
But , I think , it is inhumane that Russia constantly denies any responsibility or involvement in the attack on MH17 .
I wish they simply acknowledged their mistake , they and the separatists , not make fun of this or joke about it .
It 's very serious – almost three hundred people were killed .
Although , I think it 's too late .
They ca n't do that .
The Russian government can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
The prosecutor 's office has been preparing to press charges for five years .
They have prepared thoroughly .
There is no doubt that there is enough evidence to prove the guilt of the four suspects .
There is no doubt that the number of accused will expand .
But we 'll get to this later .
Four of the current defendants chose not to attend court hearings .
In fact , no one expected them to .
Even the handing over of suspicion notices has turned into a real action @ @ @ @ @ @ @ channels and couriers , sent by email and through mobile messengers .
And the mere fact that the message was marked as read in a messenger or on social networks was enough for Dutch prosecutors to start trying them in absentia .
Some journalists , however , managed to reach the suspects .
However , on the part of the latter – neither confessions , nor repentance , nor sympathy .
But even the former `` heroes of Novorossiya '' now appear more tolerant than the spokeswoman of the Russian Foreign Ministry .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ question from a Dutch journalist , Maria Zakharova tried to accuse her of incompetence .
When asked : `` Do you recognize the legitimacy of the Dutch court ? ''
she replied : `` Well , this question is politically incorrect .
You put me in a difficult position .
How can I recognize or not recognize the legitimacy of judicial proceedings in the Netherlands ? ''
Ukrainian Ambassador to the Netherlands , Vsevolod Chentsov , recalls that the idea to have hearings held in the Netherlands belongs to Russia .
Although at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hearings in one of the Russian courts – the idea which , of course , no one supported .
`` They probably need to review their records , the position that their diplomats have fixed back in the day ... when we were asking Russian lawyers involved in the negotiations what jurisdiction they would see fit .
They said 'probably the national jurisdiction is a way out of this situation . '
They wanted national jurisdiction – and were granted national Dutch jurisdiction .
Therefore , in this situation they can not deny @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Yelena Kutyina is the only Russian lawyer of one of the suspects , Oleg Pulatov .
In Russia , she is well known for playing a judge on a television show .
But The Hague Tribunal is not a television program .
Her status is as a consultant to two main Dutch lawyers .
By the way , they could n't explain who was paying for their services .
( nearly EUR 300 per hour ) .
They say it 's some Russian Fund .
It was with the emergence of Pulatov 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ case file started to appear in media .
Before that , the Russians tried to hack into the files of the Joint Investigation Team .
`` The very fact that such cyberattack was organized shows the level of brazenness of Russian authorities .
And this causes a backlash .
The Dutch responded harshly , saying in an official statement that it 's the GU they are blaming in this regard .
[ … ] If you are innocent , you do n't behave like that , '' says the editor-in-chief of The Insider @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mention in his report numerous attempts by the Russians to influence the investigation .
Witnesses in the case are also afraid of reprisals by the FSB or the GRU and agree to speak only on condition of complete anonymity .
Their names have been coded – just letters and numbers .
`` The Russian Federation should not be underestimated .
Twenty-four witnesses said they feared violence and that they would be killed so that the truth would not come out .
Nine agreed to testify only on condition of complete anonymity .
As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ name is revealed , I will have problems , I can be detained by Russian special services , I saw people being taken to prisons by the 'DPR ' , '' Prosecutor Thijs Berger said .
However , the investigation managed to attract witnesses , even among those who served in terrorist units in 2014 .
Vladimir Tsemakh , the man Ukraine handed over to Russia as part of a major exchange of held persons , revealed how Dutch prosecutors work with witnesses .
While he was still in a detention facility in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tsemakh to join a witness protection program but he refused .
“ Well , they offered me a house in the Netherlands .
I was just wondering why not in Australia .
Well , I refused , of course .
I belong where I was born , '' Tsemakh said .
But , obviously , some of the important witnesses chose the protection program – it is not just a house in the Netherlands , financial assistance , and adapting the whole family to a new place .
This is a defense that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` And we know that there is , of course , some surveillance on them .
That they can not go abroad .
That is , all these people are under very tight control .
And the big question is , where they are in greater security – there as they testify or here – because they can `` unexpectedly '' get run over by a car , '' says Roman Dobrokhotov .
Not only the leaders of the terrorists were mentioned in this case .
The materiel includes phone intercepts involving senior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Surkov .
The Dutch officials are releasing data on the trial in portions – only on those who can already be charged so that the case does not collapse in court .
“ What is Russia afraid of ?
They 're afraid that [ investigators ] could reach the highest offices .
Of course , there is some evidence .
It must now be compiled .
It must be suitable for trial .
So this case will last for years .
That 's unfortunate .
But , fortunately , I talked to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they will finish them .
The quality of the expertise there is fantastic , '' says former Foreign Minister of Ukraine Pavlo Klimkin .
The International Criminal Court , commonly known as The Hague Tribunal , tries people for crimes against humanity and military aggression .
And it may be the last , but not the least , institution capable of putting a legal noose on Russia 's neck .
At present , The Hague District Court is only one of the lines of legal action in the MH17 case .
The relatives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the European Court of Human Rights .
Ukraine has already won jurisdiction and is awaiting trial in the UN International Court of Justice .
The Netherlands and Australia are in the preliminary stages of an investigation and are likely to sue as well .
In addition , Ukraine also sent an information letter to the Hague Tribunal .
`` The Russian Federation , in principle , is very reluctant to execute any court decisions ... Of course , they will keep track of how serious the allegations are , how much this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a state , and where will this point be where the Russian Federation is more interested in negotiating than losing the next trial , '' says Vsevolod Centsov .
Losing for Russia will mean paying compensations in numerous claims for moral and material damage .
De facto , it will mean recognizing their military presence in foreign territory and financing terrorism .

The Dutch court held the first two hearings in the MH17 case and adjourned until March 23. Meanwhile, the Kremlin leaders have never been so close to the dock.
Six years after the terrible plane crash that left 298 people dead, trees have grown a bit at the MH17 victims' national park and the wounds of those who have lost loved ones healed, but will never be forgotten. That's because the peaceful and wealthy country hasn't encountered such shocking events since World War 2. "This is my brother. This is my brother, his wife and their son. They all died in the crash. My brother is one of the two whose body hasn't been identified yet. Nothing was found from him – no body remains, no belongings," says MH17 foundation chairman Pete Plug.
He knows almost everything about the attack on the passenger jet flight MH17.
If the investigation doesn't reveal some things to the relatives of the victims, they explain why. But Pete knows almost everything. And now there is only one thing he's waiting for – justice: "Our relatives have died in a terrible way and we will not get them back. But, I think, it is inhumane that Russia constantly denies any responsibility or involvement in the attack on MH17. I wish they simply acknowledged their mistake, they and the separatists, not make fun of this or joke about it. It's very serious – almost three hundred people were killed. Although, I think it's too late. They can't do that. The Russian government cannot recognize its presence in eastern Ukraine."
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The prosecutor's office has been preparing to press charges for five years. They have prepared thoroughly. There is no doubt that there is enough evidence to prove the guilt of the four suspects. There is no doubt that the number of accused will expand. But we'll get to this later.
Four of the current defendants chose not to attend court hearings. In fact, no one expected them to. Even the handing over of suspicion notices has turned into a real action movie. They were sent through official channels and couriers, sent by email and through mobile messengers. And the mere fact that the message was marked as read in a messenger or on social networks was enough for Dutch prosecutors to start trying them in absentia.
Some journalists, however, managed to reach the suspects. However, on the part of the latter – neither confessions, nor repentance, nor sympathy. But even the former "heroes of Novorossiya" now appear more tolerant than the spokeswoman of the Russian Foreign Ministry.
Responding to a completely simple and innocent question from a Dutch journalist, Maria Zakharova tried to accuse her of incompetence.
When asked: "Do you recognize the legitimacy of the Dutch court?" she replied: "Well, this question is politically incorrect. You put me in a difficult position. How can I recognize or not recognize the legitimacy of judicial proceedings in the Netherlands?"
Ukrainian Ambassador to the Netherlands, Vsevolod Chentsov, recalls that the idea to have hearings held in the Netherlands belongs to Russia. Although at first the Kremlin lobbied to set up hearings in one of the Russian courts – the idea which, of course, no one supported.
"They probably need to review their records, the position that their diplomats have fixed back in the day... when we were asking Russian lawyers involved in the negotiations what jurisdiction they would see fit. They said 'probably the national jurisdiction is a way out of this situation.' They wanted national jurisdiction – and were granted national Dutch jurisdiction. Therefore, in this situation they cannot deny anything," reminds Vsevolod Chentsov.
Yelena Kutyina is the only Russian lawyer of one of the suspects, Oleg Pulatov. In Russia, she is well known for playing a judge on a television show. But The Hague Tribunal is not a television program. Her status is as a consultant to two main Dutch lawyers. By the way, they couldn't explain who was paying for their services. (nearly EUR 300 per hour). They say it's some Russian Fund. It was with the emergence of Pulatov's defense in trial that leaks from the case file started to appear in media.
Before that, the Russians tried to hack into the files of the Joint Investigation Team.
"The very fact that such cyberattack was organized shows the level of brazenness of Russian authorities. And this causes a backlash. The Dutch responded harshly, saying in an official statement that it's the GU they are blaming in this regard. […] If you are innocent, you don't behave like that," says the editor-in-chief of The Insider, Roman Dobrokhotov. The prosecutor does mention in his report numerous attempts by the Russians to influence the investigation.
Witnesses in the case are also afraid of reprisals by the FSB or the GRU and agree to speak only on condition of complete anonymity. Their names have been coded – just letters and numbers.
"The Russian Federation should not be underestimated. Twenty-four witnesses said they feared violence and that they would be killed so that the truth would not come out. Nine agreed to testify only on condition of complete anonymity. As one of them said – if my name is revealed, I will have problems, I can be detained by Russian special services, I saw people being taken to prisons by the 'DPR'," Prosecutor Thijs Berger said.
However, the investigation managed to attract witnesses, even among those who served in terrorist units in 2014. Vladimir Tsemakh, the man Ukraine handed over to Russia as part of a major exchange of held persons, revealed how Dutch prosecutors work with witnesses.
While he was still in a detention facility in Ukraine, Dutch investigators interrogating him offered Tsemakh to join a witness protection program but he refused.
“Well, they offered me a house in the Netherlands. I was just wondering why not in Australia. Well, I refused, of course. I belong where I was born," Tsemakh said.
But, obviously, some of the important witnesses chose the protection program – it is not just a house in the Netherlands, financial assistance, and adapting the whole family to a new place. This is a defense that they will not see in Russia.
"And we know that there is, of course, some surveillance on them. That they cannot go abroad. That is, all these people are under very tight control. And the big question is, where they are in greater security – there as they testify or here – because they can "unexpectedly" get run over by a car," says Roman Dobrokhotov.
Not only the leaders of the terrorists were mentioned in this case. The materiel includes phone intercepts involving senior GRU generals and Putin's then-aide Vladislav Surkov. The Dutch officials are releasing data on the trial in portions – only on those who can already be charged so that the case does not collapse in court.
“What is Russia afraid of? They're afraid that [investigators] could reach the highest offices. Of course, there is some evidence. It must now be compiled. It must be suitable for trial. So this case will last for years. That's unfortunate. But, fortunately, I talked to the Dutch, and I tell you, they will finish them. The quality of the expertise there is fantastic," says former Foreign Minister of Ukraine Pavlo Klimkin.
The International Criminal Court, commonly known as The Hague Tribunal, tries people for crimes against humanity and military aggression. And it may be the last, but not the least, institution capable of putting a legal noose on Russia's neck.
At present, The Hague District Court is only one of the lines of legal action in the MH17 case. The relatives of the victims also filed a lawsuit with the European Court of Human Rights. Ukraine has already won jurisdiction and is awaiting trial in the UN International Court of Justice. The Netherlands and Australia are in the preliminary stages of an investigation and are likely to sue as well. In addition, Ukraine also sent an information letter to the Hague Tribunal.
"The Russian Federation, in principle, is very reluctant to execute any court decisions ... Of course, they will keep track of how serious the allegations are, how much this pressure will exacerbate on the Russian Federation as a state, and where will this point be where the Russian Federation is more interested in negotiating than losing the next trial," says Vsevolod Centsov.
Losing for Russia will mean paying compensations in numerous claims for moral and material damage. De facto, it will mean recognizing their military presence in foreign territory and financing terrorism.
Olha Koshelenko


unian--2020-03-16--Leading think tanks call on Ukrainian authorities to prevent default

Economists recalled that this year Ukraine is set to pay off US $ 7 billion to domestic investors and almost the same amount to external ones .
Leading think tanks have called on the Ukrainian authorities to take a number of steps in anticipation of an impending global crisis over the coronavirus pandemic , first of all , to prevent default .
According to a joint letter inked by economists at the Institute for Economic Research and Policy Consulting , the Ukrainian Institute for the Future , the Center for Economic Strategy , the Eidos Center , CASE Ukraine and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's default would mean a rollback of the country 's economy by five years .
`` The margin of safety allows servicing and paying off debts , while support of the International Monetary Fund , the European Union , and other international institutions gives access to cheap financing , even when traditional financial markets are closed .
Not to take advantage of this is to lose another decade of the country 's development , '' the letter says .
Economists recalled that this year Ukraine is set to pay off US $ 7 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same amount to external ones , and since financial markets are now simply closed to developing economies due to the largest turbulence since 2008 , the program with the IMF must be continued .
Economists also called for keeping the budget deficit within the planned framework and creating a fund to `` extinguish fire , '' including the negative consequences of dropping global trade and quarantine across the country , unforeseen health care costs , unemployment assistance and sick leave pay , as well as rescuing companies and banks .
In addition , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to support the economy , introduce credit vacations and special credit lines for small businesses , establish control over the provision of loans to affiliated parties and the possible withdrawal of funds from banks , take measures to minimize panic in the financial markets , and pursue a sound exchange rate policy .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the number of deaths from the novel coronavirus originating from China 's Wuhan rose to 6,513 .
As of March 16 , there were 169,387 cases in total confirmed globally .
In Ukraine today there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infection , while one of those patients died .
The panic on world markets caused by the rapid spread of the virus triggered a fall in the currencies of developing countries and stock market quotes .
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said Ukraine today has a stronger position than at the beginning of the 2008 global financial crisis .

Leading think tanks call on Ukrainian authorities to prevent default
11:05, 16.03.20 4949
Economists recalled that this year Ukraine is set to pay off US$7 billion to domestic investors and almost the same amount to external ones.
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unian--2020-03-16--Another two coronavirus cases confirmed in Ukraine

This brings a total to five , with one lethal case .
Another two cases of the novel coronavirus have @ @ @ @ @ says the Public Health Center of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine Two more cases @ @ @ @ @ , the report says .
In total , there are five cases of infection in @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Based on the results of a study of the Center 's virological reference @ @ @ @ @ were obtained on COVID-19 : Chernivtsi ( 4 ) and Zhytomyr ( 1 ) regions @ @ @ @ @ .
UNIAN memo .
The Chinese authorities reported an outbreak of pneumonia of unknown origin @ @ @ @ @ 2019 .
The causative agent of the disease was a new type of coronavirus , @ @ @ @ @ transmitted from person to person , with the incubation period lasting at least two weeks @ @ @ @ @ the World Health Organization declared an international emergency over the spread of the novel coronavirus @ @ @

This brings a total to five, with one lethal case.
Another two cases of the novel coronavirus have been confirmed in Ukraine, says the Public Health Center of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine
Two more cases were confirmed in Chernivtsi region, the report says.
In total, there are five cases of infection in Ukraine, including one lethal.
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Read alsoOnly pharmacies, grocery stores should remain open: Ukraine's health chief on minimizing Covid-19 spread
"Based on the results of a study of the Center's virological reference laboratory, five positive results were obtained on COVID-19: Chernivtsi (4) and Zhytomyr (1) regions," reads the report.
UNIAN memo. The Chinese authorities reported an outbreak of pneumonia of unknown origin in Wuhan late in December 2019.
The causative agent of the disease was a new type of coronavirus, COVID-19. The virus is transmitted from person to person, with the incubation period lasting at least two weeks.
On January 30, the World Health Organization declared an international emergency over the spread of the novel coronavirus from China.


unian--2020-03-16--Ukraine test-flies Turkish strike drones

Ukraine 's Defense Ministry says the recently obtained batch of Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial vehicles .
The ministry 's press service notes that from the moment of accepting Bayraktar UAVs into service , it took less than three months of training to fly them in the Ukrainian sky .
`` The flights at the airfield were preceded by long-term simulator training , where each pilot had to complete a certain amount of flight hours on the simulator .
In addition , this unmanned complex requires serious air traffic control efforts , similar to those applied to manned aircraft .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ sky and started combat training , '' the statement says .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Turkish-made tactical unmanned aerial vehicles Bayraktar TB2 have successfully passed acceptance tests in Ukraine .
Bayraktar strike drones were recently in the focus during the latest escalation in Syria between Turkish forces and those of Bashar-al Assad 's government , supported by Russia .
In one of the videos posted on social networks , a Turkish UAV was shown shooting down the Assad regime 's Russian-made $ 14 million Pantsir S1 ( SA-22 ) air defense system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ activated – in Syria 's Saraqib , The Daily Sabah reported .

Long-term training of Ukrainian operators preceded maiden flights.
Ukraine's Defense Ministry says the recently obtained batch of Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial vehicles.
The ministry's press service notes that from the moment of accepting Bayraktar UAVs into service, it took less than three months of training to fly them in the Ukrainian sky.
"The flights at the airfield were preceded by long-term simulator training, where each pilot had to complete a certain amount of flight hours on the simulator. In addition, this unmanned complex requires serious air traffic control efforts, similar to those applied to manned aircraft. We quickly lifted Bayraktar TB2 into the sky and started combat training," the statement says.
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As UNIAN reported earlier, Turkish-made tactical unmanned aerial vehicles Bayraktar TB2 have successfully passed acceptance tests in Ukraine.
Bayraktar strike drones were recently in the focus during the latest escalation in Syria between Turkish forces and those of Bashar-al Assad's government, supported by Russia. In one of the videos posted on social networks, a Turkish UAV was shown shooting down the Assad regime's Russian-made $14 million Pantsir S1 (SA-22) air defense system – while the device's radar was activated – in Syria's Saraqib, The Daily Sabah reported.


unian--2020-03-16--U.S. raising alarm over Russian disinformation on coronavirus

The report says thousands of Russian-linked social media accounts pushed and amplified unfounded conspiracy theories .
The U.S. State Department is raising the alarm that Russia has mobilized an `` ecosystem '' of humans and online bots to push conspiracy theories about the coronavirus .
But critics say those allegations come from a single , unpublished report and that its conclusions do n't fully support public statements by U.S. officials , The Hill reports .
The confusion has created a rift , with the federal government on one side and independent experts and social media companies on the other .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ against information manipulation by adversaries seeking to undermine democratic institutions and free speech .
The Global Engagement Center ( GEC ) , a division of the State Department charged with combating propaganda online , revealed last month an analysis of what it called a Russian campaign of disinformation around coronavirus .
In a report citing nearly 2 million tweets in multiple languages , the GEC said thousands of Russian-linked social media accounts pushed and amplified unfounded conspiracy theories of the U.S. and prominent American philanthropists manufacturing the outbreak as part of a racist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have said the outbreak that originated in China late last year is linked to animal-to-human transmission and then human-to-human transmission .
Social media companies are on the front line of combating disinformation against coronavirus , which the World Health Organization declared a pandemic on Wednesday .
Graham Brookie , director of the Atlantic Council ’ s Digital Forensic Research Lab , argued in favor of more transparency over efforts to track disinformation campaigns , saying it helps the public to better identify authentic information .
`` One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information ecosystem across social media for false or misleading narratives is that the vast majority of content is accessible to everyone , '' he said .
`` Assessments can be transparent and replicable for a wider research community , which helps to build back public trust and avoid hyperbole . ''

The report says thousands of Russian-linked social media accounts pushed and amplified unfounded conspiracy theories .
The U.S. State Department is raising the alarm that Russia has mobilized an "ecosystem" of humans and online bots to push conspiracy theories about the coronavirus.
But critics say those allegations come from a single, unpublished report and that its conclusions don't fully support public statements by U.S. officials, The Hill reports.
The confusion has created a rift, with the federal government on one side and independent experts and social media companies on the other.
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It also underscores U.S. challenges to guarding against information manipulation by adversaries seeking to undermine democratic institutions and free speech.
The Global Engagement Center (GEC), a division of the State Department charged with combating propaganda online, revealed last month an analysis of what it called a Russian campaign of disinformation around coronavirus.
Read alsoDutch researches reportedly discover antibody against coronavirus
In a report citing nearly 2 million tweets in multiple languages, the GEC said thousands of Russian-linked social media accounts pushed and amplified unfounded conspiracy theories of the U.S. and prominent American philanthropists manufacturing the outbreak as part of a racist and profit-making campaign against China.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have said the outbreak that originated in China late last year is linked to animal-to-human transmission and then human-to-human transmission.
Social media companies are on the front line of combating disinformation against coronavirus, which the World Health Organization declared a pandemic on Wednesday.
Graham Brookie, director of the Atlantic Council’s Digital Forensic Research Lab, argued in favor of more transparency over efforts to track disinformation campaigns, saying it helps the public to better identify authentic information.
"One of the distinct advantages of monitoring the information ecosystem across social media for false or misleading narratives is that the vast majority of content is accessible to everyone," he said. "Assessments can be transparent and replicable for a wider research community, which helps to build back public trust and avoid hyperbole."


unian--2020-03-16--Four Ukrainian soldiers wounded amid 12 enemy attacks on March 15

The enemy did not attack Ukrainian positions from 00:00 to 07:00 Kyiv time on March 16 .
Russia 's hybrid military forces on March 15 mounted 12 attacks on Ukrainian Army positions in Donbas , eastern Ukraine , with four Ukrainian soldiers reported as wounded in action .
`` The Russian Federation 's armed forces violated the ceasefire 12 times on March 15 .
Four Ukrainian soldiers were wounded as a result of enemy shelling , '' the press center of Ukraine 's Joint Forces Operation Headquarters said in an update posted on Facebook as of 07:00 Kyiv time on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , employing proscribed 120mm and 82mm mortars , an anti-tank missile system , grenade launchers of various types , heavy machine guns , and small arms .
Read alsoICRC to have access to Ukrainian captives in occupied Donbas to speed up their release – Yermak Under attack came Ukrainian positions near the villages of Pisky , Lebedynske , Nevelske , Pavlopil , Shyrokyne , Starohnativka , Luhanske , and Krymske .
In addition , the enemy shelled disengagement site No .
3 , using a hand-held anti-tank grenade launcher and small arms .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , thus adhering to the ceasefire .
The enemy did not attack Ukrainian positions from 00:00 to 07:00 Kyiv time on March 16 .

The enemy did not attack Ukrainian positions from 00:00 to 07:00 Kyiv time on March 16.
Russia's hybrid military forces on March 15 mounted 12 attacks on Ukrainian Army positions in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, with four Ukrainian soldiers reported as wounded in action.
"The Russian Federation's armed forces violated the ceasefire 12 times on March 15. Four Ukrainian soldiers were wounded as a result of enemy shelling," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation Headquarters said in an update posted on Facebook as of 07:00 Kyiv time on March 16.
The enemy opened fire, employing proscribed 120mm and 82mm mortars, an anti-tank missile system, grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and small arms.
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Read alsoICRC to have access to Ukrainian captives in occupied Donbas to speed up their release – Yermak
Under attack came Ukrainian positions near the villages of Pisky, Lebedynske, Nevelske, Pavlopil, Shyrokyne, Starohnativka, Luhanske, and Krymske.
In addition, the enemy shelled disengagement site No. 3, using a hand-held anti-tank grenade launcher and small arms. The Ukrainian military did not fire back, thus adhering to the ceasefire.
The enemy did not attack Ukrainian positions from 00:00 to 07:00 Kyiv time on March 16.