unian--2020-10-01--Zelensky: Ukraine working to get out of "raw materials" supplier category

Ukraine-China trade was estimated at about US $ 13 billion last year .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says the country is working to stop being a raw materials supplier , including for China .
`` Ukraine is working to leave the category of exclusively 'raw materials ' supplier .
We 're confident that we 'll have something to offer , including to China , '' he told Xinhua News Agency , as reported by the President 's Office on October 1 .
China has always been and remains a priority in Ukraine 's foreign policy .
The president and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cooperation .
`` I 'm sure the next meeting of the Commission for Cooperation between the Governments of Ukraine the People 's Republic of China , on which both sides are actively working , will contribute to the implementation of this goal .
Analysis of the current state of cooperation , joint formation of a new agenda are the major tasks for the bilateral body , '' he added .
Zelensky noted that Ukraine has significant potential for cooperation with China in various fields , which is commensurate with or even greater than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Ukrainian side is interested in the successful implementation of this potential .
`` China has confidently topped our major trading partners ' ranking as our [ trade ] turnover stood at about US $ 13 billion last year .
China is more confidently taking a leading position among Ukraine 's main export partners .
I am sure that the current indicators can be significantly improved , '' he added .
However , not only the growth of trade indicators is important , but also the diversification of goods , an increase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high degree of processing and high added value , the president said .

Ukraine-China trade was estimated at about US$13 billion last year.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says the country is working to stop being a raw materials supplier, including for China.
"Ukraine is working to leave the category of exclusively 'raw materials' supplier. We're confident that we'll have something to offer, including to China," he told Xinhua News Agency, as reported by the President's Office on October 1.
Read alsoUkraine, China talk expanding agri-supplies
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China has always been and remains a priority in Ukraine's foreign policy. The president and the government pay special attention to the bilateral cooperation.
"We must work together to develop a new strategy, a new vision, new growth points," he said.
"I'm sure the next meeting of the Commission for Cooperation between the Governments of Ukraine the People's Republic of China, on which both sides are actively working, will contribute to the implementation of this goal. Analysis of the current state of cooperation, joint formation of a new agenda are the major tasks for the bilateral body," he added.
Zelensky noted that Ukraine has significant potential for cooperation with China in various fields, which is commensurate with or even greater than that of many other Eastern European countries. The Ukrainian side is interested in the successful implementation of this potential.
"China has confidently topped our major trading partners' ranking as our [trade] turnover stood at about US$13 billion last year. China is more confidently taking a leading position among Ukraine's main export partners. I am sure that the current indicators can be significantly improved," he added.
However, not only the growth of trade indicators is important, but also the diversification of goods, an increase in high-tech products and products with a high degree of processing and high added value, the president said.


unian--2020-10-01--Ukrainian exports bounce back to pre-crisis levels – trade envoy

The third quarter is seen as the period of trade recovery .
Ukraine 's Deputy Minister for Development of Economy @ @ @ @ @ Trade Envoy Taras Kachka says exports of Ukrainian products have bounced back to pre-crisis levels @ @ @ @ @ to pre-crisis levels .
The morning brings optimistic and glad numbers .
Exports in September @ @ @ @ @ billion , which was 2.87 % up against September last year , '' he wrote @ @ @ @ @ .
`` In general , the third quarter was the quarter of trade recovery as @ @ @ @ @ months totaled US $ 12.14 billion , which was 13.66 % up from the second @ @ @ @ @ .
• The deficit of Ukraine 's foreign trade in goods in January-June 2020 ( @ @ @ @ @ US $ 1.277 billion , which was 66.7 % down year-over-year , according to the @ @ @ @ @ Exports of goods from Ukraine for six months shrank by 6.4 % , to US @ @ @ @ @ imports dropped by 14.3 % , to US $ 24.189 billion .

Ukrainian exports bounce back to pre-crisis levels – trade envoy
17:59, 01.10.20 919
The third quarter is seen as the period of trade recovery.
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unian--2020-10-01--Funds in Ukrainian Treasury's account shrink by 53.4% as of Oct 1

The balance in the single account as of October 1 , 2020 , was 65.5 % down from the figure posted on October 1 , 2019 .
The balance of funds in the single account of Ukraine 's State Treasury Service was estimated at UAH 21.28 billion ( US $ 751.7 million ) as of October 1 , 2020 , which was 53.4 % down from UAH 45.66 billion ( US $ 1.6 billion ) recorded as of September 1 , 2020 .
`` The balance in the single account as of October 1 , 2020 , was 65.5 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 2.2 billion ] posted on October 1 , 2019 , whereas it was 21 % up from UAH 17.55 billion [ US $ 619.9 million ] reported on January 1 , 2020 , '' the State Treasury Service said on its website .
The balance of funds on the single account of the State Treasury Service amounted to UAH 17.547 billion ( US $ 620 million ) as of January 1 , 2020 , which was 66.7 % down from the figure recorded as of December 1 , 2019 , but 1.8 @ @ @ @ @ @

Funds in Ukrainian Treasury's account shrink by 53.4% as of Oct 1
16:55, 01.10.20 1483
The balance in the single account as of October 1, 2020, was 65.5% down from the figure posted on October 1, 2019.
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unian--2020-10-01--Ecologist Yevhen Khlobystov: In Crimea, water is consumed in a barbaric way. It's like pouring champ

Ecologist Yevhen Khlobystov: In Crimea, water is consumed in a barbaric way. It's like pouring champagne over the garden

Yevhen Khlobystov , Professor at the Department of Ecology of the Kyiv-Mohyla Academy , Academician at the Academy of Economic Sciences of Ukraine , expert with the Crimean Tatar Resource Center , told UNIAN , how Crimea is turning into a desert , what it has to do with the policy of occupation authorities and what awaits local residents .
How acute is the problem with fresh water in Crimea ?
Is it true that the peninsula is turning into a desert ?
In general , the situation is depressing .
As you know , the North Crimean Canal has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's main motive for blocking was that this water was supplied for agricultural and industrial purposes .
To fill the reservoirs , the canal was an auxiliary or reserve source .
Its task was not to provide cities and towns with water .
So occupation authorities lie when they claim that today 's issue is only due to the blocking of the canal .
Over the last few years , we 've been seeing a global climate change .
The academic and expert community predicted that from 2020 such change will manifest itself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what we 're seeing today .
Precipitation and temperatures are changing .
Recent years have been the aridest ones for Crimea , so the natural filling of rivers due to precipitation and snow melting has decreased .
Objectively , water volumes are decreasing , while population has been growing significantly : now it 's about 3.5 million against 2.5 million in 2013 .
Russia announced that 250,000 people have moved to Crimea , and their families relocated , too .
There was also an informal resettlement .
For several years , Crimea was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to escape from the cold Russian winter , wet spring , and even more so , for the summer period .
Many bought real estate , but never registered , although they 've been living in Crimea for most part of the year .
Also , the number of military personnel and military facilities that use water for their own purposes has increased , too .
By how much ?
`` Big military secret '' ... Due of these factors , the issue of providing residents with water is in fact in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be resolved ?
It is impossible to revive the North Crimea Canal .
This requires huge funds , in fact comparable to the cost of building a similar structure .
The canal has stayed without water for six years already , and deep cracks have formed on the walls .
The fact is that back in 2012-2013 , the canal had very large water losses , which in certain periods of the year amounted to 60 % .
The bottom required repair works , but no one did this .
So it ca @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is handed back to Ukraine , the question will be about a new hydro-structure .
The Crimean authorities address the issue by drilling wells .
If we are talking about local water needs , for example , for summer cottage , we can drill a 70-100 meter well that will provide enough water for six acres of land and a house .
Well , it used to .
Now , in the vicinity of Sevastopol , our data say the chemical composition in artesian springs has changed dramatically , the water has become @ @ @ @ @ @ @ difficult to use it for drinking , cooking , hygiene ( after all , water is absorbed through the skin ) .
Salinity creates an aggressive environment that finishes off the water pipes , most of which have n't been replaced over the past 30 years .
In many utility systems across Crimea , the critical operation period has already passed .
In cities , there are huge losses of water [ according to the Crimean media – the loss is up to 80 % ] .
On social networks , photos and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from taps .
Apparently , after pressure dropped , air got into the pipes , metal surfaces oxidized , and rust appeared .
As a result , people wait for hours for fresh water , then being forced to drain it until clean water starts coming out .
So much far saving water .
Is there really no other way ?
Perhaps , purify water , make it less aggressive for pipes ?
There is no technical capacity to purify water from wells .
Treatment facilities are not designed for underground sources .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ troublesome .
Occupation authorities will plug holes , as always , in order to solve most urgent problems .
Crimea occupation authorities drill more than a hundred wells annually to address local problems .
As a result , artesian water , which is millions of years old , flows through utility pipes .
If you remember , ten years ago there was the Krymskaya mineral water , bottled outside Evpatoria .
We used to buy it as spring water , and now it is drained into the toilet .
A unique resource is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It 's like pouring champagne over the garden .
Due to such predatory massive extraction of water , underground voids are formed , subsidence of rocks takes place , as well as small artificial earthquakes .
The water slides deeper and deeper , and , as I said , things can get worse .
What other projects were discussed in Russia and why were they abandoned ?
I heard about the Russian government 's plans to build a powerful water pipeline , laid from the Krasnodar Territory through the Kerch Strait .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ it as everything stumbled at the stage of expert assessments .
The problem is not only technical .
In the south of the Kuban there are no such volumes of water that could be transferred to Crimea .
Due to climate change , local rivers have lost their water content .
There is another option , which Russia is not ready to go for – to build desalination stations .
Such facilities operate in the United Arab Emirates and across the Middle East .
Such projects may use nuclear fuel , but there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
You can take water from the Black Sea , desalinate it , then introduce salts required for the human body , and run this water through pipes .
There are countries that have successfully mastered this technology .
But this is expensive , so Russia wouldn ’ t agree to this .
Also , where could such a station be built ?
The Black Sea coast is mostly recreational area .
The Azov Sea is far away , so the logistics costs would be too high .
I think that Russia is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of desalination stations .
The Kremlin needs `` glitter '' projects , for example , `` on restoring order in Belarus '' .
Water desalination is less media-attractive .
The topic of Crimea has become too dull for Russians .
In this case , why spend loads of money on Crimeans rather than allocate it for some Russian region ?
Or perhaps the reservoirs should be filled due to `` artificial rain '' ?
`` Great '' idea – rather expensive though .
This technology dates back to the Soviet times when it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1980 to clear out the sky for a massive sports event .
They shoot silver iodide – a very expensive salt – into the clouds .
A very short rain would cost tens of thousands of dollars .
Let 's be realistic .
If even really wealthy countries do n't use this , it means the technology is unfeasible .
What challenges is Crimea facing ?
What will the water shortage lead to ?
Crimea is entering a period of desertification , when the water content changes , decreases , and low waters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to artificial desertification .
The picture will be very sad if the peninsula sees no major rainfall in the coming years .
There 's hope that it will snow on Mount Ai-Petri , and the problem of the Crimean reservoirs will be partially solved .
But the general trend is that there will be more and more drought .
Agriculture without irrigation will be in a difficult situation ; it is necessary to radically change the irrigation system .
There are technologies that allow growing vegetables even in the desert : just look @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such technologies available in Crimea .
I know a lot of Crimean farmers who have given up farming and found new ways to get by .
This will affect tourism business as well .
The cost of vacation in Crimea and Turkey has long been in favor of the latter .
The situation where water is supplied by hour will not give Crimea 's South Coast any advantages .
Finally , washing hands amid a pandemic has become part of the common culture .
They could look for a way out , switch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But they choose to shout out : `` Ukraine is bad .
It 's their blame '' and respond to claims that they have grabbed Crimea from Ukraine with a banal `` This is already history . ''
What other environmental issues have emerged in Crimea ?
Can they threaten Ukraine mainland 's Kherson region ?
Could history repeat itself with the emissions of sulfurous anhydride from the Crimean Titan Plant ?
As far as I know , there are no concentrations at the moment of harmful substances similar to those that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years ago .
But I ca n't say the problem has been resolved .
As an ecologist , I 'm truly concerned about the Sivash Bay .
The Titan Plant does unauthorized discharges into it .
As a result , instead of a unique natural object , we could get a puddle with an unclear water composition .
However , by 2035 , Crimea may ultimately turn into an island due to the rising sea level .
Then the issue of the Crimea Bridge will attain an additional perspective .
By the way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ environment ?
In Russia , they never assessed environmental losses .
But , of course , both flora and fauna have been affected .
The currents , water exchange between the Black and Azov seas have been altered .
The construction was carried out in unique areas so fish , dolphins , and birds suffered from it .
But to assess the severity of the damage , research must be conducted .
But how ?
Nobody will give us access to the water area of the Krech Strait , no one guarantees safety @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they always cite `` military secret '' when responding to scientific inquiries .
I will add that , realizing the threat to the Crimean ecosystem due to the irrational and criminal use of natural water sources by occupation authorities , the Crimean Tatar Resource Center drafted a report and filed it with the UN , having also submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine proposals to the UN General Assembly Resolution in the context of harm done to Crimea 's ecosystems .
We are working at different levels toward ending the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see a spelling error on our site , select it and press Ctrl+Enter

Ievgen Khlobystov, Professor at the Department of Ecology of the Kyiv-Mohyla Academy, Academician at the Academy of Economic Sciences of Ukraine, expert with the Crimean Tatar Resource Center, told UNIAN, how Crimea is turning into a desert, what it has to do with the policy of occupation authorities and what awaits local residents.
How acute is the problem with fresh water in Crimea? Is it true that the peninsula is turning into a desert?
In general, the situation is depressing. As you know, the North Crimean Canal has been shut down since 2014. Ukraine's main motive for blocking was that this water was supplied for agricultural and industrial purposes. To fill the reservoirs, the canal was an auxiliary or reserve source. Its task was not to provide cities and towns with water. So occupation authorities lie when they claim that today's issue is only due to the blocking of the canal.
Over the last few years, we've been seeing a global climate change. The academic and expert community predicted that from 2020 such change will manifest itself even more clearly. And that's what we're seeing today. Precipitation and temperatures are changing.
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Recent years have been the aridest ones for Crimea, so the natural filling of rivers due to precipitation and snow melting has decreased. Objectively, water volumes are decreasing, while population has been growing significantly: now it's about 3.5 million against 2.5 million in 2013. Russia announced that 250,000 people have moved to Crimea, and their families relocated, too. There was also an informal resettlement. For several years, Crimea was considered a place where it is nice to escape from the cold Russian winter, wet spring, and even more so, for the summer period. Many bought real estate, but never registered, although they've been living in Crimea for most part of the year. Also, the number of military personnel and military facilities that use water for their own purposes has increased, too. By how much? "Big military secret"...
Due of these factors, the issue of providing residents with water is in fact in a dead end.
How can the issue be resolved?
It is impossible to revive the North Crimea Canal. This requires huge funds, in fact comparable to the cost of building a similar structure. The canal has stayed without water for six years already, and deep cracks have formed on the walls.
The fact is that back in 2012-2013, the canal had very large water losses, which in certain periods of the year amounted to 60%. The bottom required repair works, but no one did this. So it can't be restored now. When Crimea is handed back to Ukraine, the question will be about a new hydro-structure.
The Crimean authorities address the issue by drilling wells. If we are talking about local water needs, for example, for summer cottage, we can drill a 70-100 meter well that will provide enough water for six acres of land and a house. Well, it used to.
Now, in the vicinity of Sevastopol, our data say the chemical composition in artesian springs has changed dramatically, the water has become calcareous and salty. It is increasingly difficult to use it for drinking, cooking, hygiene (after all, water is absorbed through the skin). Salinity creates an aggressive environment that finishes off the water pipes, most of which haven't been replaced over the past 30 years. In many utility systems across Crimea, the critical operation period has already passed. In cities, there are huge losses of water [according to the Crimean media – the loss is up to 80%].
On social networks, photos and videos are uploaded of rusty water flowing from taps. Apparently, after pressure dropped, air got into the pipes, metal surfaces oxidized, and rust appeared. As a result, people wait for hours for fresh water, then being forced to drain it until clean water starts coming out. So much far saving water. Is there really no other way? Perhaps, purify water, make it less aggressive for pipes?
There is no technical capacity to purify water from wells. Treatment facilities are not designed for underground sources. Replacing pipelines completely would be costly and troublesome. Occupation authorities will plug holes, as always, in order to solve most urgent problems.
Crimea occupation authorities drill more than a hundred wells annually to address local problems. As a result, artesian water, which is millions of years old, flows through utility pipes. If you remember, ten years ago there was the Krymskaya mineral water, bottled outside Evpatoria. We used to buy it as spring water, and now it is drained into the toilet. A unique resource is being consumed in the most barbaric way. It's like pouring champagne over the garden.
Due to such predatory massive extraction of water, underground voids are formed, subsidence of rocks takes place, as well as small artificial earthquakes. The water slides deeper and deeper, and, as I said, things can get worse.
What other projects were discussed in Russia and why were they abandoned?
I heard about the Russian government's plans to build a powerful water pipeline, laid from the Krasnodar Territory through the Kerch Strait. But they stopped short of even designing it as everything stumbled at the stage of expert assessments. The problem is not only technical. In the south of the Kuban there are no such volumes of water that could be transferred to Crimea. Due to climate change, local rivers have lost their water content.
There is another option, which Russia is not ready to go for – to build desalination stations. Such facilities operate in the United Arab Emirates and across the Middle East. Such projects may use nuclear fuel, but there are other energy sources available as well. You can take water from the Black Sea, desalinate it, then introduce salts required for the human body, and run this water through pipes. There are countries that have successfully mastered this technology. But this is expensive, so Russia wouldn’t agree to this.
Also, where could such a station be built? The Black Sea coast is mostly recreational area. The Azov Sea is far away, so the logistics costs would be too high. I think that Russia is not even ready to discuss the construction of desalination stations. The Kremlin needs "glitter" projects, for example, "on restoring order in Belarus". Water desalination is less media-attractive. The topic of Crimea has become too dull for Russians. In this case, why spend loads of money on Crimeans rather than allocate it for some Russian region?
Or perhaps the reservoirs should be filled due to "artificial rain"?
"Great" idea – rather expensive though. This technology dates back to the Soviet times when it was applied at the Moscow Olympics in 1980 to clear out the sky for a massive sports event. They shoot silver iodide – a very expensive salt – into the clouds. A very short rain would cost tens of thousands of dollars. Let's be realistic. If even really wealthy countries don't use this, it means the technology is unfeasible.
What challenges is Crimea facing? What will the water shortage lead to?
Crimea is entering a period of desertification, when the water content changes, decreases, and low waters dry up. Climate change can lead to artificial desertification. The picture will be very sad if the peninsula sees no major rainfall in the coming years. There's hope that it will snow on Mount Ai-Petri, and the problem of the Crimean reservoirs will be partially solved. But the general trend is that there will be more and more drought.
Agriculture without irrigation will be in a difficult situation; it is necessary to radically change the irrigation system. There are technologies that allow growing vegetables even in the desert: just look at Israel. But they are no such technologies available in Crimea. I know a lot of Crimean farmers who have given up farming and found new ways to get by.
This will affect tourism business as well. The cost of vacation in Crimea and Turkey has long been in favor of the latter. The situation where water is supplied by hour will not give Crimea's South Coast any advantages.
Finally, washing hands amid a pandemic has become part of the common culture. They could look for a way out, switch to water-saving systems and minimize water losses. But they choose to shout out: "Ukraine is bad. It's their blame" and respond to claims that they have grabbed Crimea from Ukraine with a banal "This is already history."
What other environmental issues have emerged in Crimea? Can they threaten Ukraine mainland's Kherson region? Could history repeat itself with the emissions of sulfurous anhydride from the Crimean Titan Plant?
As far as I know, there are no concentrations at the moment of harmful substances similar to those that were observed over Armyansk and Krasnoperekopsk several years ago. But I can't say the problem has been resolved.
As an ecologist, I'm truly concerned about the Sivash Bay. The Titan Plant does unauthorized discharges into it. As a result, instead of a unique natural object, we could get a puddle with an unclear water composition. However, by 2035, Crimea may ultimately turn into an island due to the rising sea level. Then the issue of the Crimea Bridge will attain an additional perspective.
By the way, how did the project affect the environment?
In Russia, they never assessed environmental losses. But, of course, both flora and fauna have been affected. The currents, water exchange between the Black and Azov seas have been altered. The construction was carried out in unique areas so fish, dolphins, and birds suffered from it. But to assess the severity of the damage, research must be conducted. But how? Nobody will give us access to the water area of the Krech Strait, no one guarantees safety of international teams involved. Also, they always cite "military secret" when responding to scientific inquiries.
I will add that, realizing the threat to the Crimean ecosystem due to the irrational and criminal use of natural water sources by occupation authorities, the Crimean Tatar Resource Center drafted a report and filed it with the UN, having also submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine proposals to the UN General Assembly Resolution in the context of harm done to Crimea's ecosystems. We are working at different levels toward ending the Russian occupation of Crimea.
Vlad Abramov


unian--2020-10-01--Ukraine MP comments on Russia's unauthorized recording of peace talks, threats to release tapes

This may indicate that `` in such an exotic way , Moscow seeks to put a squeeze on Kyiv to make them fulfill obligations that [ Leonid ] Kravchuk undertook on amending the [ local ] election resolution . ''
Statements by Russia 's envoy to the Trilateral Contact Group on Donbas settlement Boris Gryzlov on the intention to release unauthorized recordings of talks testify to the deadlock in negotiations and mounting pressure on Ukraine .
The Russian side to the TCG is not even hiding the fact they have been conducting unauthorized audio and video recording of peace talks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says the Ukrainian delegates to the TCG , as well as those from the OSCE , were rightfully indignant about the move and even interrupted the latest meeting on Wednesday .
`` We never had any doubts that the security services of the Russian Federation and Belarus , which is the same thing , are recording [ the talks ] , '' she said , adding that things have gone really bad if Gryzlov himself threatens to release the illegally recorded material .
Also , Gerashchenko adds , this may indicate that `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seeks to put a squeeze on Kyiv to make them fulfill the obligations that [ Head of Ukraine 's delegation to the TCG Leonid ] Kravchuk undertook on amending the [ local ] election resolution . ''
Gerashchenko recalled that the Verkhovna Rada `` will not work in session mode until the elections are held , so no one will adopt anything . ''
Read alsoZelensky sacks Fokin from TCG delegation amid Donbas statements row '' I give the Minsk Group this argument as an idea for the next round of negotiations – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't undertake any obligations upon Ukraine as long as the shooting in Donbas continues and hostages remain in prisons , '' Gerashchenko said .
Special Representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office Heidi Grau on Wednesday , September 30 , was reportedly forced to interrupt the meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group on Donbas settlement ( Ukraine , Russia , OSCE ) due to the Russians conducting unauthorized audio and video recording of talks that are deemed to be confidential .
Moreover , chief of the Russian delegation Gryzlov said he intends to publish the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The OSCE representative suggested taking a break and holding a separate meeting to agree on a code of conduct and information policy that all participants should adhere to .
Ukraine supported the OSCE position , stressing the unacceptability of actions contradicting the agreements and international negotiation practices .

This may indicate that "in such an exotic way, Moscow seeks to put a squeeze on Kyiv to make them fulfill obligations that [Leonid] Kravchuk undertook on amending the [local] election resolution."
Statements by Russia's envoy to the Trilateral Contact Group on Donbas settlement Boris Gryzlov on the intention to release unauthorized recordings of talks testify to the deadlock in negotiations and mounting pressure on Ukraine.
The Russian side to the TCG is not even hiding the fact they have been conducting unauthorized audio and video recording of peace talks, Gerashchenko wrote on Facebook.
MP says the Ukrainian delegates to the TCG, as well as those from the OSCE, were rightfully indignant about the move and even interrupted the latest meeting on Wednesday.
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"We never had any doubts that the security services of the Russian Federation and Belarus, which is the same thing, are recording [the talks]," she said, adding that things have gone really bad if Gryzlov himself threatens to release the illegally recorded material.
"It testifies not only to the deadlock and possible aggravation, but also the fact that now, the Russian Federation allows itself such a tone in negotiations," she said.
Also, Gerashchenko adds, this may indicate that "in such an exotic way, Moscow seeks to put a squeeze on Kyiv to make them fulfill the obligations that [Head of Ukraine's delegation to the TCG Leonid] Kravchuk undertook on amending the [local] election resolution."
"Because you mustn't promise what you won't fulfill and what you have no influence on, Mr. Kravchuk," she said.
Gerashchenko recalled that the Verkhovna Rada "will not work in session mode until the elections are held, so no one will adopt anything."
Read alsoZelensky sacks Fokin from TCG delegation amid Donbas statements row"I give the Minsk Group this argument as an idea for the next round of negotiations – blame everything on a pandemic and don't undertake any obligations upon Ukraine as long as the shooting in Donbas continues and hostages remain in prisons," Gerashchenko said.
TCG talks: Background
Special Representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office Heidi Grau on Wednesday, September 30, was reportedly forced to interrupt the meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group on Donbas settlement (Ukraine, Russia, OSCE) due to the Russians conducting unauthorized audio and video recording of talks that are deemed to be confidential.
Moreover, chief of the Russian delegation Gryzlov said he intends to publish the tapes – without asking anyone's permission.
The OSCE representative suggested taking a break and holding a separate meeting to agree on a code of conduct and information policy that all participants should adhere to.
Ukraine supported the OSCE position, stressing the unacceptability of actions contradicting the agreements and international negotiation practices.


unian--2020-10-01--EBRD revises downward outlook for GDP decline

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EBRD revises downward outlook for GDP decline
15:40, 01.10.20 1640
Ukraine's economy may see a 3% growth as early as in 2021.
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unian--2020-10-01--Ukraine interested in cooperation with China in overcoming COVID-19 fallout – Zelensky

Zelensky says the issue of providing Ukrainians with a high-quality vaccine is especially important .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said Ukraine is interested in coordinating efforts with China in the fight against the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic In an interview with the Chinese Xinhua news agency , the text of which is quoted by the press service of the President 's Office , Zelensky said the bilateral contacts between Ukraine and China were this year significantly limited as a result of the coronavirus pandemic .
At the same time , the two countries effectively cooperated in fighting off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on quarantine over COVID-19 spike among legislatorsThe president expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for the humanitarian aid provided to Ukraine , assistance in air lift of medical supplies , as well as the return of Ukrainian citizens from China .
`` Thousands of test kits , face masks , goggles , gloves and other personal protective equipment were sent to hospitals at the onset of the pandemic in Ukraine this spring .
This saved many Ukrainians .
We are especially grateful to Chinese companies , NGOs , provincial people 's governments and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much-needed and timely aid .
This expression of friendly support is especially important and valuable for us in these difficult times , '' he said .
According to Zelensky , Ukraine is interested in further coordinating efforts with China to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic fallout .
`` The issue of providing Ukrainians with a high-quality vaccine is especially important , '' he added .
• Ukraine said 4,069 new active COVID-19 cases had been confirmed across country in the past day , September 30 , which marks a steady trend toward faster spread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of confirmed cases grew to 213,028 .
• According to the World Health Organization , around 700 COVID-19 vaccine trials are being conducted worldwide .
• Zelensky has expressed hope that a vaccine against COVID-19 will become available in 2021 .

Zelensky says the issue of providing Ukrainians with a high-quality vaccine is especially important.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said Ukraine is interested in coordinating efforts with China in the fight against the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic
In an interview with the Chinese Xinhua news agency, the text of which is quoted by the press service of the President's Office, Zelensky said the bilateral contacts between Ukraine and China were this year significantly limited as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. At the same time, the two countries effectively cooperated in fighting off the common challenge.
Read alsoRada goes on quarantine over COVID-19 spike among legislatorsThe president expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for the humanitarian aid provided to Ukraine, assistance in air lift of medical supplies, as well as the return of Ukrainian citizens from China.
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"Thousands of test kits, face masks, goggles, gloves and other personal protective equipment were sent to hospitals at the onset of the pandemic in Ukraine this spring. This saved many Ukrainians. We are especially grateful to Chinese companies, NGOs, provincial people's governments and ordinary citizens for providing our country with much-needed and timely aid. This expression of friendly support is especially important and valuable for us in these difficult times," he said.
According to Zelensky, Ukraine is interested in further coordinating efforts with China to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic fallout.
"The issue of providing Ukrainians with a high-quality vaccine is especially important," he added.
COVID-19 in Ukraine: Background


unian--2020-10-01--Scheduled military draft kicks off

Scheduled military draft kicks off

Citizens aged 18-19 are accepted for military service at their own request .
The autumn conscription campaign has launched in Ukraine today , October 1 .
In total , 13,570 citizens will be called up for military service , including 7,500 to the Armed Forces of Ukraine , 4,970 to the National Guard , 500 to the State Border Guard Service , and 600 to the State Special Transport Service .
That 's according to the appendix to the Cabinet of Ministers ' Order `` On the approval of the number of citizens of Ukraine subject to conscription and expenses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Read alsoCourts in occupied Crimea find nine local men guilty of draft evasionCitizens aged 18-19 are accepted for military service at their own request , the Cabinet stressed in a statement .
The total amount of expenses for the conscription of citizens for compulsory military service in October-December is UAH 58,312,054 ( US $ 2.06 million ) .
The cost per conscript is UAH 4,297 ( US $ 152 ) , of which UAH 4,204 ( US $ 149 ) is a cash assistance .
• Ukrainian military in Donbas to get Javelin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Ukraine 's army chief on importance of NATO in Ukrainian drills : `` Deterrent to enemy '' • Ukrainian army 's top brass does not rule Donbas fighting may resume

Citizens aged 18-19 are accepted for military service at their own request.
The autumn conscription campaign has launched in Ukraine today, October 1.
In total, 13,570 citizens will be called up for military service, including 7,500 to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, 4,970 to the National Guard, 500 to the State Border Guard Service, and 600 to the State Special Transport Service.
That's according to the appendix to the Cabinet of Ministers' Order "On the approval of the number of citizens of Ukraine subject to conscription and expenses for conscription in October-December 2020."
Видео дня
Read alsoCourts in occupied Crimea find nine local men guilty of draft evasionCitizens aged 18-19 are accepted for military service at their own request, the Cabinet stressed in a statement.
The total amount of expenses for the conscription of citizens for compulsory military service in October-December is UAH 58,312,054 (US$2.06 million).
The cost per conscript is UAH 4,297 (US$152), of which UAH 4,204 (US$149) is a cash assistance.
Ukraine military: Other reports


unian--2020-10-01--Ukrainian army's top brass does not rule Donbas fighting may resume

He says further international support for Ukraine to counter the aggressor is important .
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine , Colonel-General Ruslan Khomchak does not rule out that fighting in Donbas may resume .
Khomchak announced this at a meeting of army chiefs of the Visegrad Group and Ukraine , which took place in Warsaw ( Poland ) , the media relations office of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said .
Read alsoUkraine 's army chief on importance of NATO in Ukrainian drills : `` Deterrent to enemy '' He briefed the partners on the security situation in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the situation along the contact line within the framework of the Joint Forces operation .
`` There is a full and comprehensive ceasefire along the contact line in Donbas .
Its introduction made it possible to significantly reduce the enemy 's fire activity , but there is still the likelihood that local hostilities may resume , '' Khomchak said .
He also stressed the importance of further international support for Ukraine to counter the aggressor and its interaction with NATO and the EU in this context .
• Participants in the Trilateral @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the OSCE ) on the peace settlement in Donbas on July 22 agreed on a full and comprehensive ceasefire along the contact line from 00:01 on Monday , July 27 .
• The new ceasefire regime was enforced at 00:01 Kyiv time on July 27 .
• On the very first day of the newly-agreed truce , Russia 's hybrid military forces mounted three attacks on Ukrainian positions in Donbas , eastern Ukraine .
• Ukraine has reported more such violations over the latest period .
On September 6 , the enemy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positions in the country 's east .
A Ukrainian soldier was killed , another one was wounded .
• On September 30 , a Ukrainian serviceman was wounded in shelling by Russia-led forces .
They attacked Ukrainian army positions outside the village of Zaitseve , using a grenade launcher .

He says further international support for Ukraine to counter the aggressor is important.
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Colonel-General Ruslan Khomchak does not rule out that fighting in Donbas may resume.
Khomchak announced this at a meeting of army chiefs of the Visegrad Group and Ukraine, which took place in Warsaw (Poland), the media relations office of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said.
Read alsoUkraine's army chief on importance of NATO in Ukrainian drills: "Deterrent to enemy"
Видео дня
He briefed the partners on the security situation in Donbas, Russia's ongoing aggression, and the situation along the contact line within the framework of the Joint Forces operation.
"There is a full and comprehensive ceasefire along the contact line in Donbas. Its introduction made it possible to significantly reduce the enemy's fire activity, but there is still the likelihood that local hostilities may resume," Khomchak said.
He also stressed the importance of further international support for Ukraine to counter the aggressor and its interaction with NATO and the EU in this context.
Donbas ceasefire: Background


unian--2020-10-01--Ukrainians' incomes fall by 4.5% in Q2 – stats

Ukrainians' incomes fall by 4.5% in Q2 – stats
14:00, 01.10.20 193
Citizens' spending over the period under review fell by 6.9%, to UAH 865.6 billion (US$30.6 billion).
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unian--2020-10-01--Foreign trade balance in Jan-Aug sees US$582 mln deficit – NBU

The deficit of foreign trade in goods over the reporting period decreased by more than 50 % .

Foreign trade balance in Jan-Aug sees US$582 mln deficit – NBU
13:35, 01.10.20 119
The deficit of foreign trade in goods over the reporting period decreased by more than 50%.
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unian--2020-10-01--U.S. awaits EU move before slapping sanctions on Belarus

The U.S. set of sanctions has reportedly been prepared , while there is no certainty as to the timing of their announcement .
The United States has refrained from joining Britain and Canada in the move to impose sanctions on Belarus , hoping the European Union will be able to tackle an internal dispute , thus greenlighting a coordinated U.S.-EU effort , four sources said on Wednesday .
The EU vowed in August to impose sanctions on Belarus for the alleged vote count fraud in the presidential election held August 9 , as well for violence against protesters .
However @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's smallest members , has hindered that , as reported by Reuters .
Cyprus says it will not approve of the Belarusian sanctions unless the EU adds to the package sanctions on Turkey over a separate oil and gas drilling dispute with Turkey .
Six sources told Reuters last week that Britain , Canada , and the United States initially planned to hit individual Belarusians with sanctions in a coordinated effort , while only London and Ottawa followed suit on Tuesday .
Read alsoUK , Canada slap sanctions on Lukashenko , his sonAnonymous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move , believing the EU might achieve consensus as early as this week , at the European Council meeting .
A U.S. set of sanctions was essentially ready , but the timing of any announcement was uncertain , a source familiar with the matter told Reuters .
• Alexander Lukashenko has repeatedly claimed `` foreign interference '' in the election and external efforts to foment the protests .
He spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin who had promised him comprehensive assistance upon request .
• On August 27 , Putin suggested sending Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
• The European Union declared non-recognition of the Belarus election results and reached an agreement to impose sanctions against Belarusian officials in response to vote rigging and the use of violence against protesters .
• On September 15 , the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted a statement on Belarus .
Ukrainian lawmakers said the presidential elections in that country were unfair .
They condemned repression against protesters and vowed support for sanctions to be introduced by the European Union against Belarusian officials .
• On September 14 , Putin received Lukashenko in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Putin promised to lend US $ 1.5 billion to Belarus .
After the meeting , the Kremlin announced they would recognize Lukashenko as the only legitimate president of Belarus .
• On September 23 , Lukashenko was sworn in as President of Belarus during an inaugural ceremony held behind closed doors in the Palace of Independence in Minsk .
• On September 24 , Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said Ukraine does not recognize Alexander Lukashenko a legitimate head of Belarus following the latter 's inauguration .
• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ position of the European Union on the events taking place after the presidential elections in Belarus .
• On September 27 , French President Emmanuel Macron said Alexander Lukashenko must step down , days after the European Union 's foreign policy chief said the Belarusian strongman 's `` so-called inauguration '' lacked democratic legitimacy .

The U.S. set of sanctions has reportedly been prepared, while there is no certainty as to the timing of their announcement.
The United States has refrained from joining Britain and Canada in the move to impose sanctions on Belarus, hoping the European Union will be able to tackle an internal dispute, thus greenlighting a coordinated U.S.-EU effort, four sources said on Wednesday.
The EU vowed in August to impose sanctions on Belarus for the alleged vote count fraud in the presidential election held August 9, as well for violence against protesters. However, Cyprus, one of the Bloc's smallest members, has hindered that, as reported by Reuters.
Cyprus says it will not approve of the Belarusian sanctions unless the EU adds to the package sanctions on Turkey over a separate oil and gas drilling dispute with Turkey.
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Six sources told Reuters last week that Britain, Canada, and the United States initially planned to hit individual Belarusians with sanctions in a coordinated effort, while only London and Ottawa followed suit on Tuesday.
Read alsoUK, Canada slap sanctions on Lukashenko, his sonAnonymous sources said the U.S. held on the move, believing the EU might achieve consensus as early as this week, at the European Council meeting.
A U.S. set of sanctions was essentially ready, but the timing of any announcement was uncertain, a source familiar with the matter told Reuters.
Belarus election: Reactions


unian--2020-10-01--Cabinet to allow exports of cognac blends

Cabinet to allow exports of cognac blends
12:45, 01.10.20 142
Also, producers will no longer face government restrictions on setting the terms of cognac material distillation.
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unian--2020-10-01--Ukraine's Army chief on importance of NATO in Ukrainian drills: "Deterrent to enemy"

The exercise was a step forward in the development of asymmetric capabilities to counter hybrid actions .
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine , Colonel-General Ruslan Khomchak says the participation of NATO member states ' armed forces in Ukraine 's Joint Efforts 2020 military drills has become an important deterrent to the enemy 's aggressive intentions .
Khomchak announced this at a meeting of army chiefs of the Visegrad Group and Ukraine , which took place in Warsaw ( Poland ) , the media relations office of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said .
Read alsoU.S .
warplanes fly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Photo , video ) '' The participation of representatives of NATO countries ' armed forces in the Joint Efforts 2020 command and staff drills has become an important deterrent to the aggressive intentions by the enemy , '' he said .
`` In turn , the Ukrainian headquarters and divisions were able to work out the controls with the J [ 'Joint ' ] structure and compatibility with Western partners . ''
According to him , the Joint Efforts 2020 exercise allowed the participants to hammer out a scenario for the country 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use of the military and civilian potential of the state to repel aggression .
Also , Khomchak emphasized , this exercise was a step forward in the development of asymmetric capabilities to counter the enemy 's hybrid actions .
• The Joint Efforts 2020 exercise took place from September 22 to September 25 .
About 12,000 servicemen and 700 pieces of equipment were involved .
• The drills were conducted against a single operational-strategic background , which is close to the possible nature of the development of the military and political situation around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ military units of NATO countries – those of the United States and the United Kingdom – took part in the event .

The exercise was a step forward in the development of asymmetric capabilities to counter hybrid actions.
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Colonel-General Ruslan Khomchak says the participation of NATO member states' armed forces in Ukraine's Joint Efforts 2020 military drills has become an important deterrent to the enemy's aggressive intentions.
Khomchak announced this at a meeting of army chiefs of the Visegrad Group and Ukraine, which took place in Warsaw (Poland), the media relations office of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said.
Read alsoU.S. warplanes fly over Ukraine in show of support (Photo, video)
Видео дня
"The participation of representatives of NATO countries' armed forces in the Joint Efforts 2020 command and staff drills has become an important deterrent to the aggressive intentions by the enemy," he said.
"In turn, the Ukrainian headquarters and divisions were able to work out the controls with the J ['Joint'] structure and compatibility with Western partners."
According to him, the Joint Efforts 2020 exercise allowed the participants to hammer out a scenario for the country's comprehensive defense, which provides for the use of the military and civilian potential of the state to repel aggression.
Also, Khomchak emphasized, this exercise was a step forward in the development of asymmetric capabilities to counter the enemy's hybrid actions.
Joint Efforts 2020: Facts


unian--2020-10-01--Beekeepers get almost UAH 100 mln from state budget

Beekeepers get almost UAH 100 mln from state budget
11:55, 01.10.20 1933
Almost 9,000 farmers have applied for subsidies for bee colonies.
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unian--2020-10-01--Violations of truce by enemy provoke wildfires in Donbas – Ukraine officials

Aviation is set to be involved in putting out fires .
Wildfires broke out in Luhansk region on Wednesday , September 30 , after Russian proxy forces made shots toward the forest area .
That 's according to the press service of the Stanytsia Luhanska district administration .
`` The residents of Stanytsia Luganskaya say that starting at 23:30 , incoming large-caliber gunshots were reported from the occupied territory .
Loud explosions followed in the area of a crossing checkpoint .
At about 00:20 , wildfire erupted in the forest close to the checkpoint , '' the report says .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ wildfires have already killed four people ( three residents and a forester ) , while 10 people have been hospitalized .
Some 120 people have already been evacuated .
The local authorities are clarifying the damage and the number of destroyed buildings and facilities .
In turn , Chairman of the Luhansk Regional State Administration , Serhiy Haidai , said the authorities were set to involve aviation in putting out wildfires in the area .
`` Two planes are ready .
We have contacted the Command , requesting 'silence ' .
As soon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'silence ' , we immediately launch the aircraft .
There may even be a third plane involved , '' he said .
Wildfires in the east of Ukraine : Background On September 2 , twenty-four dry grass fire hotbeds were spotted in Luhansk region across the area of about 1,200 hectares .
The Joint Forces Operation HQ said the large-scale fires in Luhansk region could be a result of deliberate arson by enemy forces .
Criminal proceedings have been launched into possible arson .
Schools were suspended in Severodonetsk , the town in @ @ @ @ @ @ @

Aviation is set to be involved in putting out fires.
Wildfires broke out in Luhansk region on Wednesday, September 30, after Russian proxy forces made shots toward the forest area.
That's according to the press service of the Stanytsia Luhanska district administration.
"The residents of Stanytsia Luganskaya say that starting at 23:30, incoming large-caliber gunshots were reported from the occupied territory. Loud explosions followed in the area of a crossing checkpoint. At about 00:20, wildfire erupted in the forest close to the checkpoint," the report says.
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According to the State Emergency Service, wildfires have already killed four people (three residents and a forester), while 10 people have been hospitalized.
Some 120 people have already been evacuated.
The local authorities are clarifying the damage and the number of destroyed buildings and facilities.
In turn, Chairman of the Luhansk Regional State Administration, Serhiy Haidai, said the authorities were set to involve aviation in putting out wildfires in the area.
"Two planes are ready. We have contacted the Command, requesting 'silence'. As soon as, or if we are ensured 'silence', we immediately launch the aircraft. There may even be a third plane involved," he said.
Read also OSCE monitors report almost 1,400 ceasefire violations since latest truce announcement Wildfires in the east of Ukraine: Background
On September 2, twenty-four dry grass fire hotbeds were spotted in Luhansk region across the area of about 1,200 hectares.
The Joint Forces Operation HQ said the large-scale fires in Luhansk region could be a result of deliberate arson by enemy forces.
Criminal proceedings have been launched into possible arson.
Schools were suspended in Severodonetsk, the town in the immediate proximity to wildfire hotbeds.


unian--2020-10-01--Lviv governor appealed to the police to open a criminal case on the anti-Semitic inscription on the

Lviv governor appealed to the police to open a criminal case on the anti-Semitic inscription on the board Servant of the People

Maksym Kozitskiy , head of the Lviv Regional State Administration , turned to the police after an anti-Semitic inscription was discovered on the advertising board of the Servant of the People political party .
UNIAN correspondents were informed about this by the United Jewish Community of Ukraine .
The head of the Lviv Regional State Administration categorically condemned the incident , calling the incident xenophobic in content .
He turned to the police with a demand to open criminal proceedings on the fact of violation of Article 161 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine - violation of the equality of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , religious beliefs , disability and other characteristics .
“ An election campaign is underway in Ukraine .
Various technologies are used , including black PR .
Moreover , some do not even shun anti-Semitic appeals .
As the head of the Lviv Regional State Administration , I categorically condemn such actions , which are xenophobic in their content .
And here party affiliation does not matter .
We must all remember that we live in a multinational and multi-religious country .
Therefore , such things today are wild .
Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people , often met with representatives of the Jewish community .
When the rabbi greeted him , he answered him in Hebrew and called him a brother by faith .
Let us remember today about the posture and science of our great countryman .
I personally appealed to law enforcement agencies regarding the initiation of criminal proceedings under Article 161 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine , in connection with incitement of national , religious enmity and hatred and humiliation of national honor and dignity.
`` Earlier in Lviv , a board was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be no Yids , as you decide . ''
Unknown people added the words `` No Yids '' to the political slogan of the party .
The United Jewish Community of Ukraine found out the whereabouts of the damaged billboard and immediately reported the incident to the Servant of the People cell in Lviv .
Representatives of the political party went to the scene and found that the anti-Semitic inscription had been erased .
In the Lviv cell of the Servants of the People made a promise to respond and turn to law @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Maksym Kozitskiy .

Maksym Kozitskiy, head of the Lviv Regional State Administration, turned to the police after an anti-Semitic inscription was discovered on the advertising board of the Servant of the People political party.
UNIAN correspondents were informed about this by the United Jewish Community of Ukraine.
The head of the Lviv Regional State Administration categorically condemned the incident, calling the incident xenophobic in content. He turned to the police with a demand to open criminal proceedings on the fact of violation of Article 161 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine - violation of the equality of citizens depending on their race, nationality, religious beliefs, disability and other characteristics.
Видео дня
“An election campaign is underway in Ukraine. Various technologies are used, including black PR. Moreover, some do not even shun anti-Semitic appeals.
As the head of the Lviv Regional State Administration, I categorically condemn such actions, which are xenophobic in their content. And here party affiliation does not matter.
We must all remember that we live in a multinational and multi-religious country. Therefore, such things today are wild.
Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky, a great beacon of the Ukrainian people, often met with representatives of the Jewish community. When the rabbi greeted him, he answered him in Hebrew and called him a brother by faith. Let us remember today about the posture and science of our great countryman.
I personally appealed to law enforcement agencies regarding the initiation of criminal proceedings under Article 161 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, in connection with incitement of national, religious enmity and hatred and humiliation of national honor and dignity. "
Earlier in Lviv, a board was found with the words "there will be no Yids, as you decide." Unknown people added the words "No Yids" to the political slogan of the party.
The United Jewish Community of Ukraine found out the whereabouts of the damaged billboard and immediately reported the incident to the Servant of the People cell in Lviv.
Representatives of the political party went to the scene and found that the anti-Semitic inscription had been erased. In the Lviv cell of the Servants of the People made a promise to respond and turn to law enforcement agencies, which was done by Maksym Kozitskiy.


unian--2020-10-01--Hryvnia weakens against dollar on Oct 1

Hryvnia weakens against dollar on Oct 1

Hryvnia weakens against dollar on Oct 1
10:40, 01.10.20 34039
The official forex rate against the euro for Thursday was set at UAH 33.16.
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unian--2020-10-01--Donbas war update: Ukraine reports 11 ceasefire violations on Sept 30

A Ukrainian soldier was wounded as a result of an enemy grenade hit .
Ukraine says its military have reported 11 violations of the latest ceasefire by Russia-controlled armed groups in the Donbas warzone on Wednesday , September 30 .
`` In the past day , September 30 , the Russian Federation 's armed formations violated the ceasefire 11 times , '' the press center of Ukraine 's Joint Forces Operation ( JFO ) Command wrote on Facebook in an update as of 07:30 Kyiv time on October 1 , 2020 .
In particular , the enemy fired rifles near @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as an automatic grenade launcher near the village of Novotroyitske .
In addition , the occupiers fired grenade launchers of various types near the villages of Zaitseve , Myronivsky , and Novotoshkivske .
`` A Ukrainian soldier was wounded as a result of an enemy attack with the use of an under-barrel grenade launcher .
He was provided medical assistance and rushed to a hospital , '' the JFO HQ said .
Since Thursday midnight , one ceasefire violation by the enemy with the use of an automatic grenade launcher has been recorded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Read alsoOSCE monitors report almost 1,400 ceasefire violations since latest truce announcementSoldiers with the Joint Forces , together with the rescuers of the State Emergency Service and representatives of forestry , continue their efforts to contain wildfires caused the day before by enemy armed provocations with the use of tracer bullets .
The situation is under full control of the Ukrainian military .
Participants in the Trilateral Contact Group ( Ukraine , Russia , and the OSCE ) on the peace settlement in Donbas on July 22 agreed on a full and comprehensive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Monday , July 27 .
The new ceasefire regime was enforced at 00:01 Kyiv time on July 27 .
On the very first day of the newly-agreed truce , Russia 's hybrid military forces mounted three attacks on Ukrainian positions in Donbas , eastern Ukraine .
Ukraine has reported more such violations over the latest period .

A Ukrainian soldier was wounded as a result of an enemy grenade hit.
Ukraine says its military have reported 11 violations of the latest ceasefire by Russia-controlled armed groups in the Donbas warzone on Wednesday, September 30.
"In the past day, September 30, the Russian Federation's armed formations violated the ceasefire 11 times," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation (JFO) Command wrote on Facebook in an update as of 07:30 Kyiv time on October 1, 2020.
In particular, the enemy fired rifles near the town of Avdiyivka, as well as an automatic grenade launcher near the village of Novotroyitske.
Видео дня
Moreover, the enemy provoked the Ukrainian military with rifle shots near the village of Novo-Oleksandrivka. Three small arms and under-barrel grenade launcher shots were recorded near the town of Zolote, while hand-held anti-tank grenade launcher and rifles were employed near the village of Khutir Vilny in the evening.
In addition, the occupiers fired grenade launchers of various types near the villages of Zaitseve, Myronivsky, and Novotoshkivske.
"A Ukrainian soldier was wounded as a result of an enemy attack with the use of an under-barrel grenade launcher. He was provided medical assistance and rushed to a hospital," the JFO HQ said.
Since Thursday midnight, one ceasefire violation by the enemy with the use of an automatic grenade launcher has been recorded near the village of Stanytsia Luhanska.
Read alsoOSCE monitors report almost 1,400 ceasefire violations since latest truce announcementSoldiers with the Joint Forces, together with the rescuers of the State Emergency Service and representatives of forestry, continue their efforts to contain wildfires caused the day before by enemy armed provocations with the use of tracer bullets.
The situation is under full control of the Ukrainian military.
Donbas ceasefire: Background
Participants in the Trilateral Contact Group (Ukraine, Russia, and the OSCE) on the peace settlement in Donbas on July 22 agreed on a full and comprehensive ceasefire along the contact line from 00:01 on Monday, July 27.
The new ceasefire regime was enforced at 00:01 Kyiv time on July 27.
On the very first day of the newly-agreed truce, Russia's hybrid military forces mounted three attacks on Ukrainian positions in Donbas, eastern Ukraine. Ukraine has reported more such violations over the latest period.


unian--2020-10-01--Daily COVID-19 high beats record second day in row with 4,069 cases reporded Sept 30

The total number of confirmed cases grew to 213,028 .
Ukraine said 4,069 new active COVID-19 cases had been confirmed across country in the past day , September 30 , which marks a steady trend toward faster spread of the disease .
The total number of confirmed cases grew to 213,028 , according to the interactive map compiled by the National Security and Defense Council .
As many as 94,443 patients , including 2,083 in the past day , have recovered .
Read alsoGov't updates quarantine zoning mapThe death toll stands at 4,193 , with 64 patients having died in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incidence per region is as follows : • 23,155 cases in the city of Kyiv ; Data from Russia-occupied areas – the Autonomous Republic of Crimea , the city of Sevastopol , parts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions – is not available .
COVID-19 tests were run by the Public Health Center 's virological reference laboratory and regional laboratories .
As of the morning of October 1 , 2020 , the Center had received 4,415 reports of suspected cases .
In total , there have been 279,644 reports since year-start .
The adaptive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Ukrainian regions were split into the green , yellow , orange , and red zones depending on hospital load , the average number of PCR and ELISA tests , the ascertainment rate of COVID-19 , and daily spread dynamics .
Quarantine-related curbs differ in each zone .
The mildest ones are in the green zone , the regions included in the red zone will have to introduce the toughest restrictions .
On August 26 , the Cabinet of Ministers extended the adaptive quarantine until November 1 .
Health Minister Maksym Stepanov says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a new lockdown in Ukraine yet .
The new quarantine zoning across Ukraine reviewed by the state and regional commissions on emergencies quarantine zoning in line with the latest reports on the epidemiological situation took effect on September 28 .

The total number of confirmed cases grew to 213,028.
Ukraine said 4,069 new active COVID-19 cases had been confirmed across country in the past day, September 30, which marks a steady trend toward faster spread of the disease.
The total number of confirmed cases grew to 213,028, according to the interactive map compiled by the National Security and Defense Council.
As many as 94,443 patients, including 2,083 in the past day, have recovered.
Видео дня
Read alsoGov't updates quarantine zoning mapThe death toll stands at 4,193, with 64 patients having died in the past 24 hours.
The overall incidence per region is as follows:
23,155 cases in the city of Kyiv;
20,590 in Lviv region;
19,128 in Kharkiv region;
14,605 in Chernivtsi region;
13,837 in Ivano-Frankivsk region;
13,789 in Odesa region;
13,787 in Ternopil region;
12,554 in Rivne region;
9,918 in Zakarpattia region;
9,279 in Kyiv region;
8,194 in Volyn region;
6,308 in Vinnytsia region;
6,188 in Khmelnytsky region;
6,088 in Zhytomyr region;
6,088 in Dnipropetrovsk region;
4,435 in Sumy region;
4,254 in Chernihiv region;
4,165 in Cherkasy region;
4,128 in Zaporizhia region;
3,557 in Donetsk region (Ukrainian-controlled districts);
3,270 in Mykolaiv region;
2,345 in Poltava region;
1,168 in Kherson region;
1,127 in Kirovohrad region; and
1,091 in Luhansk region (Ukrainian-controlled districts).
Data from Russia-occupied areas – the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, the city of Sevastopol, parts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions – is not available.
COVID-19 tests were run by the Public Health Center's virological reference laboratory and regional laboratories. As of the morning of October 1, 2020, the Center had received 4,415 reports of suspected cases. In total, there have been 279,644 reports since year-start.
Quarantine in Ukraine: Background
The adaptive quarantine was introduced on August 1. The Ukrainian regions were split into the green, yellow, orange, and red zones depending on hospital load, the average number of PCR and ELISA tests, the ascertainment rate of COVID-19, and daily spread dynamics.
Quarantine-related curbs differ in each zone. The mildest ones are in the green zone, the regions included in the red zone will have to introduce the toughest restrictions.
On August 26, the Cabinet of Ministers extended the adaptive quarantine until November 1.
Health Minister Maksym Stepanov says the ministry has no plans to introduce a new lockdown in Ukraine yet.
The new quarantine zoning across Ukraine reviewed by the state and regional commissions on emergencies quarantine zoning in line with the latest reports on the epidemiological situation took effect on September 28.


unian--2020-10-01--OSCE interrupts TCG meeting over unauthorized recording by Russians – media

Moreover , the Russian delegate said he intends to publish the tapes – without asking anyone 's permission .
Special Representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office Heidi Grau on Wednesday , September 30 , was reportedly forced to interrupt the meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group on Donbas settlement ( Ukraine , Russia , OSCE ) due to the Russians conducting unauthorized audio and video recording of talks that are deemed to be confidential .
That 's according to the reports by the Ukrainian Pravda online outlet and LIGA.net , both citing own sources close to negotiations .
Read alsoZelensky names @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the chief of the Russian delegation said he intends to publish the tapes – without asking anyone 's permission .
The OSCE representative suggested taking a break and holding a separate meeting to agree on a code of conduct and information policy that all participants should adhere to .
Ukraine supported the OSCE position , stressing the unacceptability of actions contradicting the agreements and international negotiation practices .
The Ukrainian side thanked Heidi Grau for her stance and insisted on the OSCE 's exclusive mandate and right to moderate the talks .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ role in Donbas war • Kravchuk on relocating Donbas talks from Minsk : `` Not yet raising the issue '' • Amendments to resolution on local elections could jeopardize their legitimacy – Razumkov

Moreover, the Russian delegate said he intends to publish the tapes – without asking anyone's permission.
Special Representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office Heidi Grau on Wednesday, September 30, was reportedly forced to interrupt the meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group on Donbas settlement (Ukraine, Russia, OSCE) due to the Russians conducting unauthorized audio and video recording of talks that are deemed to be confidential.
That's according to the reports by the Ukrainian Pravda online outlet and LIGA.net, both citing own sources close to negotiations.
Read alsoZelensky names next steps required toward Donbas settlementMoreover, the chief of the Russian delegation said he intends to publish the tapes – without asking anyone's permission.
Видео дня
The OSCE representative suggested taking a break and holding a separate meeting to agree on a code of conduct and information policy that all participants should adhere to.
Ukraine supported the OSCE position, stressing the unacceptability of actions contradicting the agreements and international negotiation practices.
The Ukrainian side thanked Heidi Grau for her stance and insisted on the OSCE's exclusive mandate and right to moderate the talks.
TCG on Donbas settlement: Other reports


unian--2020-10-01--Rada goes on quarantine over COVID-19 spike among legislators

The next full working week has been scheduled to start from November 2 , that 's post local elections .
The Verkhovna Rada has decided that October 20 will be the only working day scheduled in the session hall , while all other offline work has been suspended .
The next full working week has been scheduled to start from November 2 , that 's post local elections that will be held on October 25 , the TSN news service .
That 's according to Verkhovna Rada Resolution No 4171 .
At Wednesday 's meeting , Speaker Dmytro Razumkov said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is due to a spike of coronavirus cases among people 's deputies .
Reports say up to 10 MPs have fallen ill , including former president Petro Poroshenko , as well as Kira Rudyk and Zhan Beleniuk .
Read alsoConstitutional Court puts off hearings on farmland market indefinitelyParliamentary Committees will continue their work via video conference .
The adaptive quarantine was introduced on August 1 .
The Ukrainian regions were split into the green , yellow , orange , and red zones depending on hospital load , the average number of PCR and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 , and daily spread dynamics .
Quarantine-related curbs differ in each zone .
The mildest ones are in the green zone , the regions included in the red zone will have to introduce the toughest restrictions .
On August 26 , the Cabinet of Ministers extended the adaptive quarantine until November 1 .
Health Minister Maksym Stepanov says the ministry has no plans to introduce a new lockdown in Ukraine just yet .
The new quarantine zoning across Ukraine reviewed by the state and regional commissions on emergencies quarantine zoning in line @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation took effect on September 28 .

The next full working week has been scheduled to start from November 2, that's post local elections.
The Verkhovna Rada has decided that October 20 will be the only working day scheduled in the session hall, while all other offline work has been suspended.
The next full working week has been scheduled to start from November 2, that's post local elections that will be held on October 25, the TSN news service.
That's according to Verkhovna Rada Resolution No 4171.
Видео дня
At Wednesday's meeting, Speaker Dmytro Razumkov said the move to suspend session hall meetings is due to a spike of coronavirus cases among people's deputies.
Reports say up to 10 MPs have fallen ill, including former president Petro Poroshenko, as well as Kira Rudyk and Zhan Beleniuk.
Read alsoConstitutional Court puts off hearings on farmland market indefinitelyParliamentary Committees will continue their work via video conference.
COVID-19 in Ukraine: Background
The adaptive quarantine was introduced on August 1. The Ukrainian regions were split into the green, yellow, orange, and red zones depending on hospital load, the average number of PCR and ELISA tests, the ascertainment rate of COVID-19, and daily spread dynamics.
Quarantine-related curbs differ in each zone. The mildest ones are in the green zone, the regions included in the red zone will have to introduce the toughest restrictions.
On August 26, the Cabinet of Ministers extended the adaptive quarantine until November 1.
Health Minister Maksym Stepanov says the ministry has no plans to introduce a new lockdown in Ukraine just yet.
The new quarantine zoning across Ukraine reviewed by the state and regional commissions on emergencies quarantine zoning in line with the latest reports on the epidemiological situation took effect on September 28.


unian--2020-10-02--Volunteer Aleksandra Voroshilova: My neighbor who was trying to save his house from fire all through

Volunteer Aleksandra Voroshilova: My neighbor who was trying to save his house from fire all through the night said: "It's like hell. Fire's everywhere. I think I might burn to death on this roof."

Alexandra Voroshilova , coordinator of the Severodonetsk office of the Vostok-SOS Charity , told UNIAN how residents of Luhansk region ended up in a ring of fire , whether the authorities made conclusions after previous fires , and why some people can not receive compensation for their destroyed property .
Is it possible to compare the fires that were raging across Luhansk region this summer with what 's happening now ?
How badly were villages affected ?
It 's like Smolyaninovo fires [ in early July a forest fire spread over a huge area and practically destroyed the village ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ house in the village of Syrotyno burned down to the ground .
Today I talked with the owner and helped her salvage through the ruins .
She still fails to realize what 's happened : she laughs , then the next moment she weeps , and then falls silent ... Another neighbor has been trying to tackle fire all through the night after taking his family to a safe location .
He started the power generator and turned on the pump .
Until there was enough gasoline , he watered the house and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ houses were burning around him so he was afraid that the flames would engulf his crib , too .
When I called him at two or three o'clock in the morning , he said : `` It 's like hell .
Fire 's everywhere .
I think I might burn to death on this roof . ''
Nevertheless , he kept his house safe and remained unharmed .
That 's how people risk their lives .
The neighbor could leave , but he could lose a place to return to .
It 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation .
The wind picked up the flames from the forest , and gusts carried it in different directions .
Houses lit up chaotically – it was n't always the streets close to the forest line that suffered most .
The flames were spreading in all directions .
On Wednesday , the wildfire miraculously bypassed the village surrounded by the forest , but on Thursday the settlement was eventually hit with the blaze .
Is there a major threat for Severodonetsk ?
The glow is again visible in Severodonetsk .
Air quality is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We are suffocating , everyone 's got contact eyes .
The smoke is like a thick curtain , and it further thickens when the wind blows from the forest .
This week I stayed in Syrotyno .
We did n't sleep on Wednesday night .
At 20:00 , electricity went out – fire destroyed the cables .
We packed up and left without even taking our stuff .
We only grabbed IDs and took our dog ... Then we were preparing to leave Severodonetsk .
Fire moved to the area where the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it catches fire , this will threaten the whole city .
This is a working enterprise , there 's ammonia and saltpeter in warehouses .
We feel like we 're on a powder keg , fire is surrounding us .
And also , do n't forget that there is war going on .
Eyewitnesses say UXOs and mines detonated near Stanytsia Luhanska due to the heat .
Have you heard anything about this ?
This also happened near Severodonetsk .
There is an airfield in the forest , perhaps mines had been planted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remain .
There were some explosions but , fortunately , no one got hurt .
Part of the premises at the checkpoint in Stanytsia Luhanska burned down completely .
Plastic blocks were used during the construction , so they quickly lit up .
Fire broke out when there was a queue there .
As a result , the checkpoint was shut down .
Those who wanted to cross to the other side are in limbo .
They are now waiting to hear , whether the checkpoint will reopen or not .
And , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take long to reset .
What do they say on what caused these fires ?
Official reports say it was `` careless handling of fire '' .
I think there is clearly a human trace here .
I read that they were shooting from the other side of the line , but unfortunately I have no data from our military .
Those who have suffered are not yet reflecting on reasons .
They are in shock , they have not yet fully realized what 's happened .
People are very angry and just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were those who fled from wildfires accommodated ?
People from villages slept in schools .
Elderly people , large families , those with disabilities were offered mats to sleep on in gyms .
There 's no heating there and no shower .
Most of them left the place yesterday to move to their relatives .
Also , strangers offer to share their apartments with them for a while .
I know that the authorities first suggested that they be accommodated in hospitals , where at least some beds are available , but they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely it 's due to the fact that some clinic branches are being closed due to COVID-19 .
Is there information about the number of victims ?
There 's no official stats and no exact data on victims .
There are those whom we never found – perhaps they were evacuated and are now in Severodonetsk without phones .
There 's one family with kids who never got in touch .
In total , some 10 to 15 people did n't show up .
It is unclear where these people are .
Among @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immobilized residents who just could n't get out of the area on their own .
Did the authorities follow up on their promises to the victims of summer fires ?
Have they built or renovated their homes ?
We take care of a few such families , we helped them with construction materials , while our lawyer provided legal support .
Those whose homes were partially damaged received UAH 20,000-30,000 .
I know that there are those who received UAH 200,000-300,000 , bought a new house and a land plot , but there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Money was offered only to those who had real estate paperwork on them .
But there were those who had their papers gone in flames , some lived without registration , and some had outdated papers .
A lot of families never got anything .
They are suing , trying to get what 's theirs .
But how much time has passed ?
Everything is still unresolved .
There are those who just wo n't report to the authorities and collect information .
It 's the elderly who live in such villages , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Can you compare the latest fires with those you saw this summer ?
Has anything changed after that disaster ?
Do emergency services have enough equipment and additional resources ?
For weeks , maybe a month , the word has been spread that the tragedy could repeat itself .
At the Azot chemical plant staff were told to inspect and clean water hydrants .
Two months passed , and everyone forgot about the threat .
It seems to me the authorities were unprepared for wildfires to return , on an even larger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ changed for the better is that they gave the go-ahead for fire response aviation .
Helicopters take up water from lakes and drop `` water bombs '' .
What 's it like for firemen to tackle the blaze now ?
They got ta work , they have no choice .
Those young guys who came from all across Ukraine , they 've been working for more than 24 hours without sleep or rest .
I see it 's difficult for them as they operate obsolete equipment .
Before their fire trucks arrive at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the water from the tank on bumby roads .
I feel sorry for these guys .
When Smolyaninovo was burning , a field kitchen was deployed where they could have lunch and drink tea .
This time , however , for some reason , no such kitchen was set up so it was locals who were feeding them , buying them food .
But now it 's very cold outside , these guys are freezing amid those mad winds , and they also need time to rest .
We will hope fire will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will go out and help the victims together .
People are used to volunteering .
Things will get better eventually .
If you see a spelling error on our site , select it and press Ctrl+Enter

Alexandra Voroshilova, coordinator of the Severodonetsk office of the Vostok-SOS Charity, told UNIAN how residents of Luhansk region ended up in a ring of fire, whether the authorities made conclusions after previous fires, and why some people cannot receive compensation for their destroyed property.
Is it possible to compare the fires that were raging across Luhansk region this summer with what's happening now? How badly were villages affected?
It's like Smolyaninovo fires [in early July a forest fire spread over a huge area and practically destroyed the village] multiplied by five. My neighbors' house in the village of Syrotyno burned down to the ground. Today I talked with the owner and helped her salvage through the ruins. She still fails to realize what's happened: she laughs, then the next moment she weeps, and then falls silent...
Another neighbor has been trying to tackle fire all through the night after taking his family to a safe location. He started the power generator and turned on the pump. Until there was enough gasoline, he watered the house and the yard from the rooftop. Neighboring houses were burning around him so he was afraid that the flames would engulf his crib, too. When I called him at two or three o'clock in the morning, he said: "It's like hell. Fire's everywhere. I think I might burn to death on this roof."
Видео дня
Nevertheless, he kept his house safe and remained unharmed. That's how people risk their lives. The neighbor could leave, but he could lose a place to return to.
It's scary when you can't control the situation. The wind picked up the flames from the forest, and gusts carried it in different directions. Houses lit up chaotically – it wasn't always the streets close to the forest line that suffered most. The flames were spreading in all directions. On Wednesday, the wildfire miraculously bypassed the village surrounded by the forest, but on Thursday the settlement was eventually hit with the blaze.
Is there a major threat for Severodonetsk?
The glow is again visible in Severodonetsk. Air quality is horrid in the city and surrounding villages. We are suffocating, everyone's got contact eyes. The smoke is like a thick curtain, and it further thickens when the wind blows from the forest.
This week I stayed in Syrotyno. We didn't sleep on Wednesday night. At 20:00, electricity went out – fire destroyed the cables. We packed up and left without even taking our stuff. We only grabbed IDs and took our dog... Then we were preparing to leave Severodonetsk.
Fire moved to the area where the Azot chemical plant is located. If it catches fire, this will threaten the whole city. This is a working enterprise, there's ammonia and saltpeter in warehouses. We feel like we're on a powder keg, fire is surrounding us. And also, don't forget that there is war going on.
Eyewitnesses say UXOs and mines detonated near Stanytsia Luhanska due to the heat. Have you heard anything about this?
This also happened near Severodonetsk. There is an airfield in the forest, perhaps mines had been planted around the perimeter, or UXOs could remain. There were some explosions but, fortunately, no one got hurt.
Part of the premises at the checkpoint in Stanytsia Luhanska burned down completely. Plastic blocks were used during the construction, so they quickly lit up. Fire broke out when there was a queue there. As a result, the checkpoint was shut down. Those who wanted to cross to the other side are in limbo. They are now waiting to hear, whether the checkpoint will reopen or not. And, most likely, the crossing process will take long to reset.
What do they say on what caused these fires?
Official reports say it was "careless handling of fire". I think there is clearly a human trace here. I read that they were shooting from the other side of the line, but unfortunately I have no data from our military.
Those who have suffered are not yet reflecting on reasons. They are in shock, they have not yet fully realized what's happened. People are very angry and just yell at officials visiting them.
Where were those who fled from wildfires accommodated?
People from villages slept in schools. Elderly people, large families, those with disabilities were offered mats to sleep on in gyms. There's no heating there and no shower. Most of them left the place yesterday to move to their relatives. Also, strangers offer to share their apartments with them for a while.
I know that the authorities first suggested that they be accommodated in hospitals, where at least some beds are available, but they were eventually brought to schools. Most likely it's due to the fact that some clinic branches are being closed due to COVID-19.
Is there information about the number of victims?
There's no official stats and no exact data on victims. There are those whom we never found – perhaps they were evacuated and are now in Severodonetsk without phones. There's one family with kids who never got in touch. In total, some 10 to 15 people didn't show up. It is unclear where these people are. Among them there are also those who were immobilized residents who just couldn't get out of the area on their own.
Did the authorities follow up on their promises to the victims of summer fires? Have they built or renovated their homes?
We take care of a few such families, we helped them with construction materials, while our lawyer provided legal support. Those whose homes were partially damaged received UAH 20,000-30,000. I know that there are those who received UAH 200,000-300,000, bought a new house and a land plot, but there aren't too many of them.
Money was offered only to those who had real estate paperwork on them. But there were those who had their papers gone in flames, some lived without registration, and some had outdated papers. A lot of families never got anything. They are suing, trying to get what's theirs. But how much time has passed? Everything is still unresolved. There are those who just won't report to the authorities and collect information. It's the elderly who live in such villages, so it's especially hard for them.
Can you compare the latest fires with those you saw this summer? Has anything changed after that disaster? Do emergency services have enough equipment and additional resources?
For weeks, maybe a month, the word has been spread that the tragedy could repeat itself. At the Azot chemical plant staff were told to inspect and clean water hydrants. Two months passed, and everyone forgot about the threat.
It seems to me the authorities were unprepared for wildfires to return, on an even larger scale. The only thing that has changed for the better is that they gave the go-ahead for fire response aviation. Helicopters take up water from lakes and drop "water bombs".
What's it like for firemen to tackle the blaze now?
They gotta work, they have no choice. Those young guys who came from all across Ukraine, they've been working for more than 24 hours without sleep or rest. I see it's difficult for them as they operate obsolete equipment. Before their fire trucks arrive at the scene, they spill half of the water from the tank on bumby roads.
I feel sorry for these guys. When Smolyaninovo was burning, a field kitchen was deployed where they could have lunch and drink tea. This time, however, for some reason, no such kitchen was set up so it was locals who were feeding them, buying them food. But now it's very cold outside, these guys are freezing amid those mad winds, and they also need time to rest.
We will hope fire will be eventually put out and then we will go out and help the victims together. People are used to volunteering. Things will get better eventually.
Vlad Abramov


unian--2020-10-02--Zelensky takes "pro-active steps" to free Crimean prisoners from captivity – Office

Zelensky 's Office calls on the Mejlis to promote the creation of an international platform for discussing the issue of Crimea de-occupation .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky puts a great focus on problems of the Crimean Tatar society , takes `` pro-active personal steps '' to protect rights of Ukrainian citizens in the temporarily occupied Crimea and to free Crimean prisoners from captivity .
Zelensky expects from the Mejlis to work on issues within its competence , as reported by the press service of the President 's Office .
`` In particular , this also applies to creating an international @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discussing the issue of Crimea de-occupation , active promotion of the initiative on any global platforms , in particular in the media .
This is direction that really requires ultimate efforts on the part of Mejlis representatives , '' the report says .
It is noted the president also proposes and implements programs for the reintegration of the Crimean Tatar population forced to move to mainland Ukraine .
Read alsoRights activists submit motion to ICC on Russia 's crimes in Crimea '' Our common task should be to work out solutions for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Ukrainian state , '' the President 's Office said .
• 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .

Zelensky's Office calls on the Mejlis to promote the creation of an international platform for discussing the issue of Crimea de-occupation.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky puts a great focus on problems of the Crimean Tatar society, takes "pro-active personal steps" to protect rights of Ukrainian citizens in the temporarily occupied Crimea and to free Crimean prisoners from captivity.
Zelensky expects from the Mejlis to work on issues within its competence, as reported by the press service of the President's Office.
"In particular, this also applies to creating an international platform proposed by President Volodymyr Zelensky for discussing the issue of Crimea de-occupation, active promotion of the initiative on any global platforms, in particular in the media. This is direction that really requires ultimate efforts on the part of Mejlis representatives," the report says.
It is noted the president also proposes and implements programs for the reintegration of the Crimean Tatar population forced to move to mainland Ukraine.
Read alsoRights activists submit motion to ICC on Russia's crimes in Crimea"Our common task should be to work out solutions for the early return of Crimea under the control of the Ukrainian state," the President's Office said.
Russian occupation of Crimea: Background


unian--2020-10-02--Kyiv mayor reports 447 new COVID-19 cases, 10 fatalities in past day

The total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the city stands at 23,602 .
Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko has said the number of confirmed coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) cases in the city rose by 447 in the past day .
`` In the past day , another 447 residents of Kyiv tested positive for coronavirus , including 28 healthcare workers .
There were 10 fatalities , '' Klitschko told a briefing on October 2 .
According to the city mayor , 251 women aged 19 to 82 and 168 men aged 18 to 83 are among those infected .
Ten @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 17 years old ) have tested positive .
Klitschko said 45 new patients had been hospitalized , while the rest are self-isolating , undergoing treatment at home under medical supervision .
He added that 312 people had recovered in the past day .
In total , 7,253 Kyiv residents have already beaten the disease .
Read alsoDaily COVID-19 high beats record third day in row on Oct 1The highest number of the new cases in Kyiv was registered in Dniprovsky district ( 93 ) , Desniansky district ( 70 ) , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ total death toll in the city is 401 cases .
The adaptive quarantine was introduced on August 1 .
The Ukrainian regions were split into the green , yellow , orange , and red zones depending on hospital load , the average number of PCR and ELISA tests , the ascertainment rate of COVID-19 , and daily spread dynamics .
Quarantine-related curbs differ in each zone .
The mildest ones are in the green zone , the regions included in the red zone will have to introduce the toughest restrictions .
On August @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the adaptive quarantine until November 1 .
Health Minister Maksym Stepanov says the ministry has no plans to introduce a new lockdown in Ukraine yet .
The new quarantine zoning across Ukraine reviewed by the state and regional commissions on emergencies quarantine zoning in line with the latest reports on the epidemiological situation took effect on September 28 .

The total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the city stands at 23,602.
Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko has said the number of confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in the city rose by 447 in the past day.
"In the past day, another 447 residents of Kyiv tested positive for coronavirus, including 28 healthcare workers. There were 10 fatalities," Klitschko told a briefing on October 2.
"As of today, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the city is 23,602."
According to the city mayor, 251 women aged 19 to 82 and 168 men aged 18 to 83 are among those infected.
Ten girls and 18 boys (from one to 17 years old) have tested positive.
Klitschko said 45 new patients had been hospitalized, while the rest are self-isolating, undergoing treatment at home under medical supervision.
He added that 312 people had recovered in the past day.
In total, 7,253 Kyiv residents have already beaten the disease.
Read alsoDaily COVID-19 high beats record third day in row on Oct 1The highest number of the new cases in Kyiv was registered in Dniprovsky district (93), Desniansky district (70), and Podilsky district (61).
The total death toll in the city is 401 cases.
Quarantine in Ukraine: Background
The adaptive quarantine was introduced on August 1. The Ukrainian regions were split into the green, yellow, orange, and red zones depending on hospital load, the average number of PCR and ELISA tests, the ascertainment rate of COVID-19, and daily spread dynamics.
Quarantine-related curbs differ in each zone. The mildest ones are in the green zone, the regions included in the red zone will have to introduce the toughest restrictions.
On August 26, the Cabinet of Ministers extended the adaptive quarantine until November 1.
Health Minister Maksym Stepanov says the ministry has no plans to introduce a new lockdown in Ukraine yet.
The new quarantine zoning across Ukraine reviewed by the state and regional commissions on emergencies quarantine zoning in line with the latest reports on the epidemiological situation took effect on September 28.