unian--2020-03-17--COVID-19 in Ukraine: 14, incl. two babies, test positive; second death confirmed

Seven new cases were confirmed on Tuesday alone .
Fourteen Ukrainians have tested positive for the novel coronavirus , according to the Ukrainian Health Ministry 's Public Health Center .
Two of the confirmed cases are deaths from COVID-19 , the center said in a Facebook update as of 20:00 Kyiv time on March 17 .
`` According to the virological reference laboratory of Ukraine 's Public Health Center , 14 tested positive for COVID-19 : Chernivtsi region ( 10 ) , Zhytomyr region ( 1 ) , Kyiv region ( 1 ) , and the city of Kyiv ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In particular , a 44-year-old man who came from abroad was tested positive in Kyiv region and six persons – a 33-year-old woman ( a second death from COVID-19 ) , individuals aged 31 , 10 , 18 , two babies ( 22 months and six months old ) were tested positive in Chernivtsi region on Tuesday alone .
`` All of them have been in contact with a previously confirmed case , '' it said .
The laboratory checks not only suspected cases , but also established contacts .
In total , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ examined .
`` Most of people who are affected by the novel coronavirus experience it as the common acute respiratory syndrome .
Actually , this disease is a kind of severe acute respiratory syndrome ( SARS ) , but it is caused by a previously unknown pathogen , '' the center said .
In particular , the World Health Organization estimates the death rate from COVID-19 at 3.4 % .
The Ukrainian Health Ministry says that 96.6 % of COVID-19 cases will not be fatal .
Ukraine 's first death from the new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ region ) was reported on March 13 .

Seven new cases were confirmed on Tuesday alone.
Fourteen Ukrainians have tested positive for the novel coronavirus, according to the Ukrainian Health Ministry's Public Health Center.
Two of the confirmed cases are deaths from COVID-19, the center said in a Facebook update as of 20:00 Kyiv time on March 17.
Read alsoTwo coronavirus cases reported in Kyiv
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"According to the virological reference laboratory of Ukraine's Public Health Center, 14 tested positive for COVID-19: Chernivtsi region (10), Zhytomyr region (1), Kyiv region (1), and the city of Kyiv (2)," it said.
In particular, a 44-year-old man who came from abroad was tested positive in Kyiv region and six persons – a 33-year-old woman (a second death from COVID-19), individuals aged 31, 10, 18, two babies (22 months and six months old) were tested positive in Chernivtsi region on Tuesday alone.
"All of them have been in contact with a previously confirmed case," it said.
The laboratory checks not only suspected cases, but also established contacts.
In total, more than 640 samples have already been examined.
"Most of people who are affected by the novel coronavirus experience it as the common acute respiratory syndrome. Actually, this disease is a kind of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), but it is caused by a previously unknown pathogen," the center said.
In particular, the World Health Organization estimates the death rate from COVID-19 at 3.4%.
The Ukrainian Health Ministry says that 96.6% of COVID-19 cases will not be fatal.
Ukraine's first death from the new coronavirus (a 71-year-old woman in Zhytomyr region) was reported on March 13.


unian--2020-03-17--Almost 1,200 Ukrainians seeking evacuation from Germany amid coronavirus lockdown

The registration of Ukrainians who want to return home is under way in Hamburg , Dusseldorf , Munich , and @ @ @ @ @ are seeking evacuation from Germany to Ukraine amid a global coronavirus lockdown .
`` Attention @ @ @ @ @ citizens [ of Ukraine ] in Germany who want to return home : the Embassy @ @ @ @ @ Dusseldorf , Munich , and Frankfurt continue registration 24/7 for evacuation to your native country @ @ @ @ @ been registered as of now , '' Ukraine 's Ambassador to Germany Andriy Melnyk said @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Ukraine will not leave anyone behind ! ''
he added .
As UNIAN @ @ @ @ @ evacuation applied to Ukraine 's Ministry of Foreign Affairs as of March 17 .

The registration of Ukrainians who want to return home is under way in Hamburg, Dusseldorf, Munich, and Frankfurt.
Almost 1,200 Ukrainians are seeking evacuation from Germany to Ukraine amid a global coronavirus lockdown.
"Attention! Important notice for all citizens [of Ukraine] in Germany who want to return home: the Embassy and consulates in Hamburg, Dusseldorf, Munich, and Frankfurt continue registration 24/7 for evacuation to your native country: some 1,192 people have been registered as of now," Ukraine's Ambassador to Germany Andriy Melnyk said on Twitter on Tuesday afternoon.
Read alsoUkraine's Cabinet shuts down intercity train, bus, and plane routes
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"Ukraine will not leave anyone behind!" he added.
As UNIAN reported, 3,644 Ukrainians seeking evacuation applied to Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs as of March 17.


unian--2020-03-17--Two Ukrainian soldiers receive shrapnel wounds amid shelling in Donbas on March 17

Two Ukrainian soldiers have received shrapnel wounds near the village of Novotoshkivske in Donbas , eastern Ukraine , amid enemy @ @ @ @ @ 17 .
`` Armed formations of the Russian Federation have once again violated the ceasefire @ @ @ @ @ and attacked positions of [ Ukraine 's ] Joint Forces , using weapons prohibited by @ @ @ @ @ the press center of the Joint Forces Operation ( JFO ) headquarters said in an @ @ @ @ @ March 17 .
In particular , the Russian invaders fired fifteen 82mm mortars to attack @ @ @ @ @ `` Two members of the Joint Forces received shrapnel wounds amid the enemy 's attack @ @ @ @ @ The servicemen were evacuated to a military hospital , where they received medical care .
@ @ @ @ @ As the JFO HQ said , Russia-led forces mounted 10 attacks on Ukrainian positions in @ @ @ @ @ Kyiv time on March 17 , using proscribed 82mm and 120mm mortars , an anti-tank @ @ @ @ @ , large-caliber machine guns , and rifles .

Their condition is satisfactory.
Two Ukrainian soldiers have received shrapnel wounds near the village of Novotoshkivske in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, amid enemy shelling on Tuesday, March 17.
"Armed formations of the Russian Federation have once again violated the ceasefire today, March 17, and attacked positions of [Ukraine's] Joint Forces, using weapons prohibited by the Minsk agreements," the press center of the Joint Forces Operation (JFO) headquarters said in an evening update on Facebook on March 17.
Read alsoOne Ukrainian soldier wounded amid seven enemy attacks on March 16
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In particular, the Russian invaders fired fifteen 82mm mortars to attack Ukrainian positions near Novotoshkivske.
"Two members of the Joint Forces received shrapnel wounds amid the enemy's attack," it said.
The servicemen were evacuated to a military hospital, where they received medical care. Their condition is satisfactory.
As the JFO HQ said, Russia-led forces mounted 10 attacks on Ukrainian positions in Donbas from 00:00 to 18:00 Kyiv time on March 17, using proscribed 82mm and 120mm mortars, an anti-tank missile system, grenade launchers, large-caliber machine guns, and rifles.


unian--2020-03-17--Ukraine's hryvnia continues weakening

Ukraine's hryvnia continues weakening

The official forex rate for March 18 is set at UAH 27.06 per U.S. dollar .
Ukraine 's hryvnia continues weakening after the National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) has set its official forex rate against the U.S. dollar for Wednesday , March 18 , at UAH 27.06 per U.S. dollar .
Thus , the Ukrainian currency weakened by another 54 kopiykas after it devalued by 43 kopiykas on Monday , March 16 .
Read alsoUkraine 's hryvnia slumps to UAH 26.52 to U.S. dollar on March 17 As the NBU said on its website , the official forex @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is set at UAH 29.73 per euro for March 18 , which let the Ukrainian currency weaken by another 21 kopiykas from the previous level .
On Tuesday morning , currency exchange booths sold U.S. dollars for UAH 27.90 per dollar , while the rate of the euro climbed to UAH 30.90 per euro .
Forex quotations on Ukraine 's interbank market as of 15:00 Kyiv time on Tuesday , March 17 , were set at UAH 27.08/27.15 per dollar and UAH 29.74/29.85 per euro .
As UNIAN reported earlier , high demand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been formed by Ukrainian companies , while purchases of foreign currency by nonresidents for selling government domestic loan bonds are insignificant .
From March 10 to March 13 , the NBU sold US $ 981.6 million on the interbank market to prop up the hryvnia .
On March 16 alone , the central bank sold US $ 130.5 million at a foreign currency auction .

Ukraine's hryvnia continues weakening
18:35, 17.03.20 6324
The official forex rate for March 18 is set at UAH 27.06 per U.S. dollar.
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unian--2020-03-17--Suspension of grain exports over quarantine may lead to bankruptcies, expert suggests

He believes compensation would be a fair option .
President of the Ukrainian Agribusiness Club Association ( UCAB ) Alex Lissitsa says the halt of exports of grains and other major export staples may lead to bankruptcies so the government must make a balanced decision amid national quarantine .
`` We 'd like to believe that the government will make a balanced decision and wo n't impose a ban on major export staples for Ukrainian agrarians , such as grains , oilseeds , vegetable oil , and poultry .
This may completely shut down the industry and lead hundreds or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thousands or even hundreds of thousands of their jobs , '' he wrote on Facebook on March 16 .
Read alsoUkrainian farmers export over 42 mln tonnes of grain since July 1 The expert also stressed that the United States and the European Union promised to compensate exporters for losses due to the suspension of exports .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the Cabinet of Ministers on March 11 decided to introduce quarantine across Ukraine from March 12 to April 3 .
On March 16 , Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Cabinet of Ministers is yet to draw a list of such goods .

Suspension of grain exports over quarantine may lead to bankruptcies, expert suggests
16:40, 17.03.20 3801
He believes compensation would be a fair option.
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unian--2020-03-17--Rada postpones vote on land reform, awaiting guarantees from IMF – media

Starting today , March 17 , the Verkhovna Rada will continue considering amendments to land reform .
The Verkhovna Rada , Ukraine 's parliament , has postponed the vote on land reform until the agreements with the International Monetary Fund ( IMF ) on financial assistance are confirmed .
`` We say we will vote once the IMF confirms that they will give us money , '' a source from the Servant of the People faction told the Ekonomichna Pravda online newspaper .
Thus , it is expected that the vote will take place no earlier than April .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Verkhovna Rada is set to continue considering amendments to land reform .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the new government of Ukraine informed the IMF of its will to continue close cooperation with the Fund and promote reform toward sustainable growth .
Read alsoLeading think tanks call on Ukrainian authorities to prevent default On Monday , March 16 , President Volodymyr Zelensky invited the Servant of the People parliamentary faction to the President 's Office to hold a meeting regarding the opening of the land market .
For the agreement with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ program of macro-financial assistance for US $ 5.5 billion , Ukraine has to perform two prior actions : adopt the land market bill and draft law on former owners of bankrupt banks .
The government expects this to be completed within one to two weeks .
Also , the Cabinet of Ministers at its meeting on March 16 instructed the relevant ministry to prepare a letter to the IMF regarding the provision of financial assistance to combat coronavirus .

Rada postpones vote on land reform, awaiting guarantees from IMF – media
16:20, 17.03.20 3087
Starting today, March 17, the Verkhovna Rada will continue considering amendments to land reform.
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unian--2020-03-17--Ukraine's new economy minister outlines first steps in office to respond to looming crisis

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Ukraine's new economy minister outlines first steps in office to respond to looming crisis
16:00, 17.03.20 2316
One of the priorities is to set up a fundamentally comfortable environment for Ukrainian businesses.
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unian--2020-03-17--Ukrainian Parliament passes law to support taxpayers amid national quarantine

Ukrainian Parliament passes law to support taxpayers amid national quarantine
15:40, 17.03.20 829
Employees put in isolation will be paid 50% of their average salary, regardless of their contribution period.
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unian--2020-03-17--Kyiv entrepreneurs aiming to profit off of coronavirus panic robbed of 100,000 medical face masks at

Kyiv entrepreneurs aiming to profit off of coronavirus panic robbed of 100,000 medical face masks at gunpoint

Masks worth about UAH 1 million ( US $ 37,707 ) had been purchased in various locations over the past @ @ @ @ @ detained in the capital city of Kyiv an armed gang a few days after they @ @ @ @ @ medical face masks at gunpoint .
The armed robbery was reported on March 13 , @ @ @ @ @ of the Prosecutor 's Office in Kyiv .
According to the victims , medical face @ @ @ @ @ million ( US $ 37,707 ) had been purchased in various locations over the past @ @ @ @ @ to be resold amid coronavirus fears .
Read alsoCurrency panic in Kyiv : Dollar up @ @ @ @ @ booths Apparently tipped about the batch , the attackers , who were posing as SBU @ @ @ @ @ entrepreneurs as they were reloading boxes with masks .
Police have identified and detained three @ @ @ @ @ – local residents aged 26 to 42 .
None of them have any relation to @ @ @

Masks worth about UAH 1 million (US$37,707) had been purchased in various locations over the past weeks.
Kyiv police have detained in the capital city of Kyiv an armed gang a few days after they robbed local entrepreneurs of 100,000 medical face masks at gunpoint.
The armed robbery was reported on March 13, according to the press service of the Prosecutor's Office in Kyiv.
According to the victims, medical face masks worth about UAH 1 million (US$37,707) had been purchased in various locations over the past few weeks and were set to be resold amid coronavirus fears.
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Read alsoCurrency panic in Kyiv: Dollar up to UAH 27.90 in exchange booths
Apparently tipped about the batch, the attackers, who were posing as SBU security operatives, ambushed the entrepreneurs as they were reloading boxes with masks.
Police have identified and detained three individuals complicit in the crime – local residents aged 26 to 42.
None of them have any relation to law enforcement.


unian--2020-03-17--Euro 2020 postponed until 2021, says Norwegian FA

The proposal was agreed during a video conference with all 55 of its affiliated national football federations and representatives of @ @ @ @ @ .
UEFA 's 2020 European Championship has been postponed for a year as the world @ @ @ @ @ of the coronavirus , the Norwegian FA tweeted on Tuesday .
UEFA , who is @ @ @ @ @ , has proposed that the June 12-July 12 tournament to be held in 12 countries @ @ @ @ @ 11-July 11 next year to give the suspended domestic leagues time to be completed , @ @ @ @ @ Read alsoDutch MH17 trial to continue behind closed doors due to coronavirus – Reuters The @ @ @ @ @ video conference with all 55 of its affiliated national football federations and representatives of clubs @ @ @ @ @ The decision will go before UEFA 's Executive Committee for final sign-off later on Tuesday @

The proposal was agreed during a video conference with all 55 of its affiliated national football federations and representatives of clubs, leagues and players.
UEFA's 2020 European Championship has been postponed for a year as the world fights to contain the outbreak of the coronavirus, the Norwegian FA tweeted on Tuesday.
UEFA har bestemt at EM utsettes til 2021. Det skal spilles fra 11. juni til 11. juli neste år. Mer informasjon kommer. — NorgesFotballforbund (@nff_info) March 17, 2020
UEFA, who is yet to confirm the decision, has proposed that the June 12-July 12 tournament to be held in 12 countries be put back to June 11-July 11 next year to give the suspended domestic leagues time to be completed, as reported by Reuters.
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Read alsoDutch MH17 trial to continue behind closed doors due to coronavirus – Reuters
The proposal was agreed during a video conference with all 55 of its affiliated national football federations and representatives of clubs, leagues and players.
The decision will go before UEFA's Executive Committee for final sign-off later on Tuesday.


unian--2020-03-17--New chief prosecutor says law on clemency for Maidan protesters contradicts criminal procedural code

She says it should be repealed to put the Maidan shootings investigation off pause .
New Prosecutor General of Ukraine Iryna Venediktova has commented on the initiative she had voiced earlier to repeal the law on clemency for participants in the Revolution of Dignity .
While Parliament considered her appointment , Venediktova was asked whether her position changed on the initiative .
`` As for the law on , as you call it , 'clemency'… If you read the law correctly and check if it is in line with the criminal procedure law , you will also have certain questions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here in parliament .
Either we admit the fact that the courts in their judgments are already circumventing the norms of the law , therefore , law enforcement agencies must either comply with the criminal procedure legislation or this law , '' Venediktova said , according to an UNIAN correspondent .
She added the task of the Verkhovna Rada was to `` harmonize legislative acts . ''
`` You ca n't be all 'white and fluffy ' here and at the same time demand results .
You know that case No .
1455 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pause .
Therefore , it is simply necessary to realize : either we implement a special law that is contrary to criminal procedural legislation and remain on pause , or we want a comprehensive and objective investigation so that our special laws comply with laws whose force is higher , '' Venediktova said .
She called on the lawmakers to decide : `` Either you comply with the laws that you adopt and do it logically , or you do n't . ''
On February 20 , 2020 , the then Acting Director @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Venediktova talked about the need to repeal the law `` On the prevention of prosecution and punishment of persons regarding the events that took place during peaceful gatherings , and the recognition of some laws of Ukraine as invalid '' of 2014 .
According to her , there is a contradiction between this law and the Code of Criminal Procedure .

She says it should be repealed to put the Maidan shootings investigation off pause.
New Prosecutor General of Ukraine Iryna Venediktova has commented on the initiative she had voiced earlier to repeal the law on clemency for participants in the Revolution of Dignity.
While Parliament considered her appointment, Venediktova was asked whether her position changed on the initiative.
"As for the law on, as you call it, 'clemency'… If you read the law correctly and check if it is in line with the criminal procedure law, you will also have certain questions. Therefore, let's be honest here in parliament. Either we admit the fact that the courts in their judgments are already circumventing the norms of the law, therefore, law enforcement agencies must either comply with the criminal procedure legislation or this law," Venediktova said, according to an UNIAN correspondent.
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Read alsoNew Ukraine's Prosecutor General: Who is Iryna Venediktova
She added the task of the Verkhovna Rada was to "harmonize legislative acts."
"You can't be all 'white and fluffy' here and at the same time demand results. You know that case No. 1455 [on Maidan shootings] is on pause. Therefore, it is simply necessary to realize: either we implement a special law that is contrary to criminal procedural legislation and remain on pause, or we want a comprehensive and objective investigation so that our special laws comply with laws whose force is higher," Venediktova said.
She called on the lawmakers to decide: "Either you comply with the laws that you adopt and do it logically, or you don't."
On February 20, 2020, the then Acting Director of the State Bureau of Investigation Iryna Venediktova talked about the need to repeal the law "On the prevention of prosecution and punishment of persons regarding the events that took place during peaceful gatherings, and the recognition of some laws of Ukraine as invalid" of 2014. According to her, there is a contradiction between this law and the Code of Criminal Procedure.


unian--2020-03-18--PM Shmyhal says Ukraine should brace for economic crisis

He has ordered to develop several scenarios to ensure that quick countermeasures could be taken for all of them .
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has said the Cabinet of Ministers should get prepared for an economic crisis in Ukraine , which could be a consequence of an impending global financial crisis .
`` The government will not and does not have the right to confine itself to fighting coronavirus .
We must prepare the country for other challenges , too – a global crisis and a possible economic crisis in Ukraine , which will be the consequence of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doubt , and this is also a challenge for the economy minister , for the government , for the whole country and , in particular , businesses , '' PM told a government meeting on Wednesday .
Read alsoUkraine 's new economy minister outlines first steps in office to respond to looming crisis The prime minister has also instructed newly appointed Minister of Economic Development , Trade and Agriculture Ihor Petrashko to develop several scenarios to ensure that quick countermeasures could be taken for all of them .
`` We 're analyzing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ global economy , '' Shmyhal said .
As UNIAN reported earlier , on March 11 , Shmyhal said Ukraine today has a stronger position than at the beginning of the 2008 global financial crisis .

PM Shmyhal says Ukraine should brace for economic crisis
14:20, 18.03.20 15173
He has ordered to develop several scenarios to ensure that quick countermeasures could be taken for all of them.
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unian--2020-03-18--Coronavirus update: state of emergency introduced in Kyiv region

The situation is designated as a `` regional-level biomedical emergency of natural character . ''
A state of emergency has @ @ @ @ @ over the novel coronavirus .
The decision was made on March 18 at an extraordinary @ @ @ @ @ on technological environmental safety and emergency situations , as reported by the press service of @ @ @ @ @ Facebook .
`` After analyzing the epidemic situation in Kyiv region caused by the COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ to classify it as a 'regional-level biomedical emergency of natural character ' and temporarily introduce @ @ @ @ @ the territory of Kyiv region , '' reads the report .
Earlier , Ukrainian President @ @ @ @ @ on March 17 to combat the spread of coronavirus in Ukraine .

The situation is designated as a "regional-level biomedical emergency of natural character."
An Emergency Situation mode has been introduced in Kyiv region over the novel coronavirus.
The decision was made on March 18 at an extraordinary meeting of the regional commission on technological environmental safety and emergency situations, as reported by the press service of Kyiv Regional State Administration on Facebook.
Read alsoKyiv's underground suspends service until April 3
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"After analyzing the epidemic situation in Kyiv region caused by the COVID-19 virus, we have decided to classify it as a 'regional-level biomedical emergency of natural character' and temporarily introduce an emergency situation mode in the territory of Kyiv region," reads the report.
Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky enacted laws adopted on March 17 to combat the spread of coronavirus in Ukraine.
UPDATE:
The story has been updated to correct the mode of emergency from "state of emergency" to "emergency situation".


unian--2020-03-18--EU closes external borders in anti-coronavirus effort

The aim is to slow down the spread of coronavirus in Europe and globally .
EU leaders have agreed to restrict most travel into Europe for at least 30 days in an unprecedented move .
The aim is to slow down the spread of coronavirus in Europe and globally and to limit the deadly outbreak 's impact on the bloc 's internal market of open borders , EUObserver reported .
The restrictions , agreed on Tuesday ( March 17 ) , will apply to almost all non-EU citizens with exceptions such as people transporting goods , diplomats , and military @ @ @ @ @ @ @ researchers .
Long-term residents or visa-holders and relatives of EU citizens can also travel .
Ireland will not join the travel restrictions , because the UK has not either , and they share a common and politically sensitive border .
Non-EU members Iceland , Liechtenstein , Norway , and Switzerland will be part of the measures , but their citizens and UK citizens can continue to travel into the EU .
Member states said they will seal off their external borders `` immediately '' , European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The EU Commission , which proposed the move over the weekend , is hoping that the measure will convince EU governments to roll back the internal border closures that have come into place over the last week in an effort to stop the virus .

The aim is to slow down the spread of coronavirus in Europe and globally.
EU leaders have agreed to restrict most travel into Europe for at least 30 days in an unprecedented move.
The aim is to slow down the spread of coronavirus in Europe and globally and to limit the deadly outbreak's impact on the bloc's internal market of open borders, EUObserver reported.
The restrictions, agreed on Tuesday (March 17), will apply to almost all non-EU citizens with exceptions such as people transporting goods, diplomats, and military personnel, health care professionals, and researchers. Long-term residents or visa-holders and relatives of EU citizens can also travel.
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Read alsoCoronavirus update: nearly 198,000 cases reported worldwide, almost 82,000 recoveries
Ireland will not join the travel restrictions, because the UK has not either, and they share a common and politically sensitive border.
Non-EU members Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland will be part of the measures, but their citizens and UK citizens can continue to travel into the EU.
Member states said they will seal off their external borders "immediately", European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen told reporters after the three-hour teleconference with leaders.
The EU Commission, which proposed the move over the weekend, is hoping that the measure will convince EU governments to roll back the internal border closures that have come into place over the last week in an effort to stop the virus.


unian--2020-03-18--Ukraine reports new COVID-19 case in Kyiv region: patient in home isolation

Ukraine has reported the new case of the novel coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) , this time confirmed in Kyiv region .
The patient is a local resident who has recently returned from abroad and felt the symptoms of infection .
He turned to the central virological laboratory of the Public Health Center of the Ministry of Health where he tested positive for coronavirus , as reported by the press service of Kyiv City State Administration .
It is noted the patient and his relatives are in isolation at home under the supervision of doctors .
Read alsoTwelve Ukrainians being treated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – MFA As UNIAN reported earlier , as of the morning of Wednesday , March 18 , a total of 198,006 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 coronavirus were recorded worldwide .
An outbreak of a novel coronavirus was recorded late December 2019 in the most populous city of Central China , Wuhan .
The World Health Organization recognized it as a global emergency , describing it as a multi-cell epidemic .
To date , 14 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been recorded in Ukraine , two of which are lethal .
The country has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last until April 3 .

The infected person recently returned from abroad.
Ukraine has reported the new case of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), this time confirmed in Kyiv region.
The patient is a local resident who has recently returned from abroad and felt the symptoms of infection. He turned to the central virological laboratory of the Public Health Center of the Ministry of Health where he tested positive for coronavirus, as reported by the press service of Kyiv City State Administration.
It is noted the patient and his relatives are in isolation at home under the supervision of doctors.
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Read alsoTwelve Ukrainians being treated for coronavirus abroad, 744 in quarantine – MFA
As UNIAN reported earlier, as of the morning of Wednesday, March 18, a total of 198,006 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 coronavirus were recorded worldwide.
An outbreak of a novel coronavirus was recorded late December 2019 in the most populous city of Central China, Wuhan. The World Health Organization recognized it as a global emergency, describing it as a multi-cell epidemic.
To date, 14 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been recorded in Ukraine, two of which are lethal.
The country has declared a nationwide quarantine, which will last until April 3.


unian--2020-03-18--National Bank says Ukraine's banking system liquidity at high level

The NBU remains on guard of financial stability , the senior official says .
Deputy Governor of the National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) Oleh Churiy has said the liquidity of the country 's banking system is at a very high level , as US $ 10 billion in deposits from individuals is concentrated in banks , while about US $ 8 billion is accumulated on the Ukrainian banks ' correspondent accounts in foreign banks .
`` This liquidity reserve will certainly suffice to meet any individual cash withdrawal needs , '' he said on March 18 .
At @ @ @ @ @ @ @ citizens and businesses to be partners and not to panic .
`` The National Bank is on guard of financial stability , '' he stressed .
As UNIAN reported earlier , on the morning of March 17 , the National Bank noted a shortage of cash in the cash desks of banks , while US $ 8 billion of non-cash currency was concentrated on banks ' correspondent accounts .
Read alsoUkraine 's hryvnia slides to UAH 27.06 to U.S. dollar on March 18 The central bank spent US $ 981.6 million from reserves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The regulator sold US $ 238 million on the interbank foreign exchange market on Monday , March 16 .
According to the NBU , the increased demand for foreign currency is caused by a psychological factor , namely the deterioration of market sentiment due to the global spread of coronavirus .

National Bank says Ukraine's banking system liquidity at high level
12:20, 18.03.20 1956
The NBU remains on guard of financial stability, the senior official says.
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unian--2020-03-18--Israel enables emergency spy powers to track potential coronavirus carriers using mobile-phone data

`` These tools will very much assist us in locating the sick and stopping the virus from spreading , '' Netanyahu said .
The Israeli government has approved emergency measures for its security agencies to track the mobile-phone data of people with suspected coronavirus .
The new powers will be used to enforce quarantine and warn those who may have come into contact with infected people , the BBC reports .
The temporary laws were passed by Cabinet bypassing parliamentary approval .
The Association for Civil Rights in Israel called the move `` a dangerous precedent and a slippery slope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for counter-terrorism operations .
It is understood the location data collected through telecommunication companies by Shin Bet , the domestic security agency , will be shared with health officials .
Once an individual is highlighted as a possible coronavirus case , the health ministry will then be able to track whether or not they are adhering to quarantine rules .
It can also send a text message to people who may have come into contact with them before symptoms emerged .
The ultimate test of bolstering the powers of surveillance agencies will lie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they can slow the spread of the coronavirus .
Israel has confirmed more than 300 cases of the virus and imposed a series of other measures to stop the spread .
They include closing schools , shopping centers , restaurants and most places of leisure , as well as limiting gatherings to 10 people .
Israel 's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the new powers will last for 30 days only .
Speaking ahead of the vote , he said : `` Israel is a democracy and we must maintain the balance between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` These tools will very much assist us in locating the sick and stopping the virus from spreading . ''
Although it is shrouded in secrecy , other countries are believed to collect data from mobile phones to be used in mass-surveillance programmes or in specific criminal investigations that require case-by-case legal permission .
China 's sophisticated mass surveillance system is also being used to keep a tab on infected individuals .
Tencent , the company behind popular messaging app WeChat , has launched a QR-code-based tracking feature .
The `` close @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if they have been in close contact with a virus carrier and enforce quarantines .
In South Korea , similar technology has been criticised for an invasion of privacy as some people were accused of having extramarital affairs based on their location data being made public .

"These tools will very much assist us in locating the sick and stopping the virus from spreading," Netanyahu said.
The Israeli government has approved emergency measures for its security agencies to track the mobile-phone data of people with suspected coronavirus.
The new powers will be used to enforce quarantine and warn those who may have come into contact with infected people, the BBC reports.
The temporary laws were passed by Cabinet bypassing parliamentary approval.
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The Association for Civil Rights in Israel called the move "a dangerous precedent and a slippery slope". Such powers are usually reserved for counter-terrorism operations.
It is understood the location data collected through telecommunication companies by Shin Bet, the domestic security agency, will be shared with health officials. Once an individual is highlighted as a possible coronavirus case, the health ministry will then be able to track whether or not they are adhering to quarantine rules. It can also send a text message to people who may have come into contact with them before symptoms emerged.
The ultimate test of bolstering the powers of surveillance agencies will lie in their longer term effectiveness: whether they can slow the spread of the coronavirus.
Israel has confirmed more than 300 cases of the virus and imposed a series of other measures to stop the spread. They include closing schools, shopping centers, restaurants and most places of leisure, as well as limiting gatherings to 10 people. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says the new powers will last for 30 days only.
Speaking ahead of the vote, he said: "Israel is a democracy and we must maintain the balance between civil rights and the public's needs.
Read alsoCoronavirus update: nearly 198,000 cases reported worldwide, almost 82,000 recoveries
"These tools will very much assist us in locating the sick and stopping the virus from spreading."
Although it is shrouded in secrecy, other countries are believed to collect data from mobile phones to be used in mass-surveillance programmes or in specific criminal investigations that require case-by-case legal permission.
China's sophisticated mass surveillance system is also being used to keep a tab on infected individuals. Tencent, the company behind popular messaging app WeChat, has launched a QR-code-based tracking feature. The "close contact detector" app notifies the user if they have been in close contact with a virus carrier and enforce quarantines.
In South Korea, similar technology has been criticised for an invasion of privacy as some people were accused of having extramarital affairs based on their location data being made public.


unian--2020-03-18--Twelve Ukrainians being treated for coronavirus abroad, 744 in quarantine – MFA

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs ( MFA ) of Ukraine says 12 Ukrainians are being treated for the novel coronavirus abroad , while 744 people remain in quarantine .
Five citizens of Ukraine are undergoing treatment in Germany , two in Poland , two in Italy , and one each in Moldova , the United Arab Emirates and the Dominican Republic , according to the MFA 's operational information concerning the coronavirus as of 23:00 on March 17 .
Moreover , 744 Ukrainians remain in quarantine : 712 in two hotels in Egypt , 16 in Brazil , seven in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , three in the UAE , and three in Moldova .
Five Ukrainians have recovered ( four in Japan and one in Italy ) .
As UNIAN reported earlier , as of the morning of Wednesday , March 18 , a total of 198,006 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 coronavirus were recorded worldwide .
An outbreak of a novel coronavirus was recorded late December 2019 in the most populous city of Central China , Wuhan .
The World Health Organization recognized it as a global emergency , describing it as a multi-cell epidemic .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 have been recorded in Ukraine , two of which are lethal .
The country has declared a nationwide quarantine , which will last until April 3 .

A total of 11,758 Ukrainians returned home.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Ukraine says 12 Ukrainians are being treated for the novel coronavirus abroad, while 744 people remain in quarantine.
Five citizens of Ukraine are undergoing treatment in Germany, two in Poland, two in Italy, and one each in Moldova, the United Arab Emirates and the Dominican Republic, according to the MFA's operational information concerning the coronavirus as of 23:00 on March 17.
Moreover, 744 Ukrainians remain in quarantine: 712 in two hotels in Egypt, 16 in Brazil, seven in Germany, three in the Dominican Republic, three in the UAE, and three in Moldova.
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Five Ukrainians have recovered (four in Japan and one in Italy).
One Ukrainian national died in Italy.
A total of 11,758 Ukrainians returned home.
Read alsoAlmost 1,200 Ukrainians seeking evacuation from Germany amid coronavirus lockdown
As UNIAN reported earlier, as of the morning of Wednesday, March 18, a total of 198,006 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 coronavirus were recorded worldwide.
An outbreak of a novel coronavirus was recorded late December 2019 in the most populous city of Central China, Wuhan. The World Health Organization recognized it as a global emergency, describing it as a multi-cell epidemic.
To date, 14 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been recorded in Ukraine, two of which are lethal.
The country has declared a nationwide quarantine, which will last until April 3.


unian--2020-03-18--Another six people with suspected coronavirus hospitalized in Lviv region

In total , 24 people have been hospitalized with suspected coronavirus in Lviv region .
Six people with suspected coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ Lviv Regional Infectious Clinical Hospital .
All patients earlier returned from trips to countries where @ @ @ @ @ , as reported by the press service of Lviv Regional State Administration .
According to @ @ @ @ @ local administration 's health department , Andriy Vasko , all patients are now in stable @ @ @ @ @ Their test samples for COVID-19 are yet to be examined in a specialized lab in @ @ @ @ @ : 14 , incl .
two babies , test positive ; second death confirmed In @ @ @ @ @ been hospitalized in Lviv region with suspected coronavirus , of whom 12 persons are young @ @ @ @ @ from abroad .
As UNIAN reported earlier , fourteen Ukrainians tested positive for the novel @ @ @ @ @ Ukrainian Health Ministry 's Public Health Center .
Two of the confirmed cases were lethal @ @ @ @ @ regions ) .

In total, 24 people have been hospitalized with suspected coronavirus in Lviv region.
Six people with suspected coronavirus have been admitted to the Lviv Regional Infectious Clinical Hospital.
All patients earlier returned from trips to countries where coronavirus cases had been recorded, as reported by the press service of Lviv Regional State Administration.
According to the acting chief of the local administration's health department, Andriy Vasko, all patients are now in stable condition and undergoing physicals.
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Their test samples for COVID-19 are yet to be examined in a specialized lab in Kyiv
Read alsoCOVID-19 in Ukraine: 14, incl. two babies, test positive; second death confirmed
In total, 24 people have been hospitalized in Lviv region with suspected coronavirus, of whom 12 persons are young people who had recently returned from abroad.
As UNIAN reported earlier, fourteen Ukrainians tested positive for the novel coronavirus, according to the Ukrainian Health Ministry's Public Health Center. Two of the confirmed cases were lethal (in Chernivtsi and Zhytomyr regions).


unian--2020-03-18--Ukraine's Health Ministry doesn't rule out extension of quarantine

The decision is to be taken after the expiration of the current measure .
Ukraine 's Health Ministry does n't rule out an extension of the quarantine to combat the spread of the novel coronavirus nationwide , but the final decision is to be taken in April .
`` All the measures we 're taking are preventive .
At the same time , we do not exclude the introduction of response measures in the event of a massive spread of the disease in Ukraine , '' Chief Medical Officer Viktor Liashko said on March 17 .
Read alsoUkraine suspends regular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world According to him , the quarantine will be extended with due regard to the epidemiological situation in the European Union and other neighboring countries .
The Health Ministry will decide on the extension close to the expiration date of the ongoing quarantine , which is April 3 .
As of early March 18 , the number of deaths from the novel coronavirus originating from China 's Wuhan had risen to 7,948 .
There were 198,004 cases in total confirmed globally with 4,826 deaths outside mainland China , according to the Coronavirus COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johns Hopkins University .
Some 81,946 people have recovered .
The virological reference laboratory of Ukraine 's Public Health Center reported that as of 20:00 Kyiv time on March 17 , some 14 Ukrainians tested positive for COVID-19 : Chernivtsi region ( 10 ) , Zhytomyr region ( 1 ) , Kyiv region ( 1 ) , and the city of Kyiv ( 2 ) .
In particular , on March 17 alone , a 44-year-old man who came from abroad was tested positive in Kyiv region and six persons – a 33-year-old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , individuals aged 31 , 10 , 18 , two babies ( 22 months and six months old ) were tested positive in Chernivtsi region .
Ukraine 's first death from the new coronavirus ( a 71-year-old woman in Zhytomyr region ) was reported on March 13 .

The decision is to be taken after the expiration of the current measure.
Ukraine's Health Ministry doesn't rule out an extension of the quarantine to combat the spread of the novel coronavirus nationwide, but the final decision is to be taken in April.
"All the measures we're taking are preventive. At the same time, we do not exclude the introduction of response measures in the event of a massive spread of the disease in Ukraine," Chief Medical Officer Viktor Liashko said on March 17.
Read alsoUkraine suspends regular passenger traffic with the rest of the world
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According to him, the quarantine will be extended with due regard to the epidemiological situation in the European Union and other neighboring countries.
The Health Ministry will decide on the extension close to the expiration date of the ongoing quarantine, which is April 3.
As of early March 18, the number of deaths from the novel coronavirus originating from China's Wuhan had risen to 7,948. There were 198,004 cases in total confirmed globally with 4,826 deaths outside mainland China, according to the Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases dashboard by the CSSE at Johns Hopkins University. Some 81,946 people have recovered.
The virological reference laboratory of Ukraine's Public Health Center reported that as of 20:00 Kyiv time on March 17, some 14 Ukrainians tested positive for COVID-19: Chernivtsi region (10), Zhytomyr region (1), Kyiv region (1), and the city of Kyiv (2).
In particular, on March 17 alone, a 44-year-old man who came from abroad was tested positive in Kyiv region and six persons – a 33-year-old woman (a second death from COVID-19), individuals aged 31, 10, 18, two babies (22 months and six months old) were tested positive in Chernivtsi region.
Ukraine's first death from the new coronavirus (a 71-year-old woman in Zhytomyr region) was reported on March 13.


unian--2020-03-18--New coronavirus can persist in air for hours and on surfaces for days: study

The shortest survival time was on copper , where half the virus became inactivated within 46 minutes , study showed .
The highly contagious novel coronavirus that has exploded into a global pandemic can remain viable and infectious in droplets in the air for hours and on surfaces up to days , according to a new study that should offer guidance to help people avoid contracting the respiratory illness called COVID-19 .
Scientists from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases ( NIAID ) , part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health , attempted to mimic the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surfaces in a household or hospital setting , such as through coughing or touching objects , Reuters reports .
They used a device to dispense an aerosol that duplicated the microscopic droplets created in a cough or a sneeze .
The scientists then investigated how long the virus remained infectious on these surfaces , according to the study .
The tests show that when the virus is carried by the droplets released when someone coughs or sneezes , it remains viable , or able to still infect people , in aerosols for at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stainless steel , viable virus could be detected after three days .
On cardboard , the virus was not viable after 24 hours .
On copper , it took 4 hours for the virus to become inactivated .
In terms of half-life , the research team found that it takes about 66 minutes for half the virus particles to lose function if they are in an aerosol droplet .
That means that after another hour and six minutes , three quarters of the virus particles will be essentially inactivated but 25 % will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ viable virus at the end of the third hour will be down to 12.5 % , according to the research led by Neeltje van Doremalen of the NIAID 's Montana facility at Rocky Mountain Laboratories .
On stainless steel , it takes 5 hours 38 minutes for half of the virus particles to become inactive .
On plastic , the half-life is 6 hours 49 minutes , researchers found .
On cardboard , the half-life was about three and a half hours , but the researchers said there was a lot of variability @ @ @ @ @ @ @ caution ” interpreting that number .
The shortest survival time was on copper , where half the virus became inactivated within 46 minutes .

The shortest survival time was on copper, where half the virus became inactivated within 46 minutes, study showed.
The highly contagious novel coronavirus that has exploded into a global pandemic can remain viable and infectious in droplets in the air for hours and on surfaces up to days, according to a new study that should offer guidance to help people avoid contracting the respiratory illness called COVID-19.
Scientists from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, attempted to mimic the virus deposited from an infected person onto everyday surfaces in a household or hospital setting, such as through coughing or touching objects, Reuters reports.
They used a device to dispense an aerosol that duplicated the microscopic droplets created in a cough or a sneeze.
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Read alsoCoronavirus update: nearly 198,000 cases reported worldwide, almost 82,000 recoveries
The scientists then investigated how long the virus remained infectious on these surfaces, according to the study.
The tests show that when the virus is carried by the droplets released when someone coughs or sneezes, it remains viable, or able to still infect people, in aerosols for at least three hours.
On plastic and stainless steel, viable virus could be detected after three days. On cardboard, the virus was not viable after 24 hours. On copper, it took 4 hours for the virus to become inactivated.
In terms of half-life, the research team found that it takes about 66 minutes for half the virus particles to lose function if they are in an aerosol droplet.
That means that after another hour and six minutes, three quarters of the virus particles will be essentially inactivated but 25% will still be viable.
The amount of viable virus at the end of the third hour will be down to 12.5%, according to the research led by Neeltje van Doremalen of the NIAID's Montana facility at Rocky Mountain Laboratories.
Read alsoDutch researches reportedly discover antibody against coronavirus
On stainless steel, it takes 5 hours 38 minutes for half of the virus particles to become inactive. On plastic, the half-life is 6 hours 49 minutes, researchers found.
On cardboard, the half-life was about three and a half hours, but the researchers said there was a lot of variability in those results “so we advise caution” interpreting that number.
The shortest survival time was on copper, where half the virus became inactivated within 46 minutes.


unian--2020-03-18--Kyiv's underground suspends service until April 3

Surface transport routes are to be used as substitutes .
The Kyiv Metro , a local underground railway system , @ @ @ @ @ Kyiv time on March 17 amid the nationwide coronavirus quarantine .
`` The Kyiv Metro @ @ @ @ @ on March 17 tentatively until April 3 .
In this regard , Kyivpastrans , a @ @ @ @ @ passengers surface transport routes that substitute the underground railway lines , '' Kyiv City Council @ @ @ @ @ Also , the City Council recalled that only passengers wearing protective medical masks will be @ @ @ @ @ , buses , and shuttle buses as of March 18 .
What is more , @ @ @ @ @ for a halt to the transportation of passengers by road on suburban , intercity and @ @ @ @ @ according to First Deputy Chairman of Kyiv State City Administration Mykola Povoroznyk .

Surface transport routes are to be used as substitutes.
The Kyiv Metro, a local underground railway system, suspended its service at 23:00 Kyiv time on March 17 amid the nationwide coronavirus quarantine.
"The Kyiv Metro suspended passenger transportation at 23:00 on March 17 tentatively until April 3. In this regard, Kyivpastrans, a municipal transportation firm, offers passengers surface transport routes that substitute the underground railway lines," Kyiv City Council's press service said.
Read alsoUkraine's Cabinet shuts down intercity train, bus, and plane routes
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Also, the City Council recalled that only passengers wearing protective medical masks will be allowed into trams, trolleybuses, buses, and shuttle buses as of March 18.
What is more, Wednesday noon is the deadline for a halt to the transportation of passengers by road on suburban, intercity and interregional routes across Ukraine, according to First Deputy Chairman of Kyiv State City Administration Mykola Povoroznyk.


unian--2020-03-18--Ukraine suspending rail, air and bus passenger traffic at noon today

Some commuter trains will take shortened routes to be completed by noon .
Ukraine will suspend all intercitiy rail , air , and bus passenger services in Ukraine at noon today as part of measures to counter the spread of coronavirus across the country .
`` All passenger transportation stops from 12:00 on March 18 , 2020 , including suburban .
Some commuter trains will take shortened routes to be completed at noon .
Please listen carefully to the announcements and read notices at stations , '' Ukrainian Infrastructure Minister Vladyslav Kryklii wrote on Telegram .
The full list of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ official website of Ukrzaliznytsia .
Read alsoCOVID-19 in Ukraine : 14 , incl .
two babies , test positive ; second death confirmed As UNIAN reported earlier , the Ukrainian Government at its extraordinary meeting overnight Tuesday decided to suspend all air , rail and bus services between cities and regions of Ukraine .
The subways in the cities of Kyiv , Kharkiv and Dnipro have been closed as well .
An outbreak of a novel coronavirus was recorded late December 2019 in the most populous city of Central China , Wuhan .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a global emergency , describing it as a multi-cell epidemic .
To date , 14 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been recorded in Ukraine , two of which are lethal .
The country has declared a nationwide quarantine , which will last until April 3 .

Some commuter trains will take shortened routes to be completed by noon.
Ukraine will suspend all intercity rail, air, and bus passenger services in Ukraine at noon today as part of measures to counter the spread of coronavirus across the country.
"All passenger transportation stops from 12:00 on March 18, 2020, including suburban. Some commuter trains will take shortened routes to be completed at noon. Please listen carefully to the announcements and read notices at stations," Ukrainian Infrastructure Minister Vladyslav Kryklii wrote on Telegram.
The full list of canceled trains can be found on the official website of Ukrzaliznytsia.
Видео дня
Read alsoCOVID-19 in Ukraine: 14, incl. two babies, test positive; second death confirmed
As UNIAN reported earlier, the Ukrainian Government at its extraordinary meeting overnight Tuesday decided to suspend all air, rail and bus services between cities and regions of Ukraine. The subways in the cities of Kyiv, Kharkiv and Dnipro have been closed as well.
An outbreak of a novel coronavirus was recorded late December 2019 in the most populous city of Central China, Wuhan. The World Health Organization recognized it as a global emergency, describing it as a multi-cell epidemic.
To date, 14 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been recorded in Ukraine, two of which are lethal.
The country has declared a nationwide quarantine, which will last until April 3.


unian--2020-03-18--Ukraine's hryvnia slides to UAH 27.06 to U.S. dollar on March 18

The official forex rate against the euro for Wednesday is fixed at UAH 29.73 per euro .
The National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) on March 17 set the official forex rate for March 18 at UAH 27.06 to the U.S. dollar , which let the country 's national currency slump by 54 kopiykas .
The Central Bank fixed the following official forex rates of the hryvnia against key foreign currencies for March 18 : US $ 100 will be traded for UAH 2,705.66 ( UAH 2,652.49 as of March 17 ) ; EUR 100 will be traded for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ March 17 ) .
Read alsoUkraine 's new economy minister outlines first steps in office to respond to looming crisis As UNIAN reported earlier , the National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) spent US $ 981.6 million from reserves to support the hryvnia , Ukraine 's national currency , on March 10-13 .
The regulator sold US $ 130.5 million at a currency auction on March 16 alone .
There has been an increased demand for currency on Ukraine 's forex market , formed by Ukrainian companies .
However , foreign currency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ domestic government loan bonds market is not yet significant , according to the NBU .

Ukraine's hryvnia slides to UAH 27.06 to U.S. dollar on March 18
09:40, 18.03.20 18085
The official forex rate against the euro for Wednesday is fixed at UAH 29.73 per euro.
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unian--2020-03-18--Two Ukrainian soldiers wounded amid 10 enemy attacks on March 17

The enemy opened fire , employing proscribed 120mm and 82mm mortars , an anti-tank missile system , grenade launchers of various types , heavy machine guns , and small arms .
Russia 's hybrid military forces on March 17 mounted 10 attacks on Ukrainian Army positions in Donbas , eastern Ukraine , with two Ukrainian soldiers reported as wounded in action .
`` The Russian Federation 's armed forces violated the ceasefire 10 times on March 17 .
Two Ukrainian soldiers were wounded as a result of enemy shelling , '' the press center of Ukraine 's Joint Forces Operation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Facebook as of 07:00 Kyiv time on March 18 .
The enemy opened fire , employing proscribed 120mm and 82mm mortars , an anti-tank missile system , grenade launchers of various types , heavy machine guns , and small arms .
Under attack came Ukrainian positions near the villages of Pavlopil , Berezove , Starohnativka , Shyrokyne , Slavne , Novoluhanske , Orikhove , and Novotoshkivske .
In addition , the enemy shelled disengagement site No .
3 twice , using an automatic grenade launcher and small arms .
The Ukrainian military did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ truce agreements .
`` Since Wednesday midnight , Russia-led forces have attacked Ukrainian positions once near the town of Maryinka , using a tripod-mounted man-portable antitank gun , '' the update said .
No casualties were reported among Ukrainian troops Wednesday morning .

The enemy opened fire, employing proscribed 120mm and 82mm mortars, an anti-tank missile system, grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and small arms.
Russia's hybrid military forces on March 17 mounted 10 attacks on Ukrainian Army positions in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, with two Ukrainian soldiers reported as wounded in action.
"The Russian Federation's armed forces violated the ceasefire 10 times on March 17. Two Ukrainian soldiers were wounded as a result of enemy shelling," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation Headquarters said in an update posted on Facebook as of 07:00 Kyiv time on March 18.
The enemy opened fire, employing proscribed 120mm and 82mm mortars, an anti-tank missile system, grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and small arms.
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Read alsoTwo Ukrainian soldiers receive shrapnel wounds amid shelling in Donbas on March 17
Under attack came Ukrainian positions near the villages of Pavlopil, Berezove, Starohnativka, Shyrokyne, Slavne, Novoluhanske, Orikhove, and Novotoshkivske.
In addition, the enemy shelled disengagement site No. 3 twice, using an automatic grenade launcher and small arms. The Ukrainian military did not return fire, thus adhering to truce agreements.
"Since Wednesday midnight, Russia-led forces have attacked Ukrainian positions once near the town of Maryinka, using a tripod-mounted man-portable antitank gun," the update said.
No casualties were reported among Ukrainian troops Wednesday morning.


unian--2020-03-18--Coronavirus update: nearly 198,000 cases reported worldwide, almost 82,000 recoveries

The number of victims of COVID-19 is approaching 8,000 .
As of the morning of Wednesday , March 18 , a total of 198,006 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 coronavirus were recorded worldwide , reports the CSSE at Johns Hopkins University .
The number of lethal cases has increased to 7,948 , according to the Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases dashboard .
At the same time , 81,950 people recovered from the disease .
In China , there are 81,074 cases , including 3,122 lethal ones .
The second-highest rate of infection spread is recorded in Italy with 31,506 cases and 2,503 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continue behind closed doors due to coronavirus – Reuters In Iran , 16,169 people have already been infected and 988 have died .
In Spain , there are 11,826 infection cases , including 533 lethal ones .
As UNIAN reported earlier , an outbreak of a novel coronavirus was recorded late December 2019 in the most populous city of Central China , Wuhan .
The World Health Organization recognized it as a global emergency , describing it as a multi-cell epidemic .
To date , 14 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been recorded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lethal .
The country has declared a nationwide quarantine , which will last until April 3 .

The number of victims of COVID-19 is approaching 8,000.
As of the morning of Wednesday, March 18, a total of 198,006 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 coronavirus were recorded worldwide, reports the CSSE at Johns Hopkins University.
The number of lethal cases has increased to 7,948, according to the Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases dashboard.
At the same time, 81,950 people recovered from the disease.
Видео дня
In China, there are 81,074 cases, including 3,122 lethal ones. The second-highest rate of infection spread is recorded in Italy with 31,506 cases and 2,503 deaths.
Read alsoDutch MH17 trial to continue behind closed doors due to coronavirus – Reuters
In Iran, 16,169 people have already been infected and 988 have died. In Spain, there are 11,826 infection cases, including 533 lethal ones.
As UNIAN reported earlier, an outbreak of a novel coronavirus was recorded late December 2019 in the most populous city of Central China, Wuhan. The World Health Organization recognized it as a global emergency, describing it as a multi-cell epidemic.
To date, 14 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been recorded in Ukraine, two of which are lethal.
The country has declared a nationwide quarantine, which will last until April 3.


unian--2020-03-19--RFE/RL: U.S. senator criticizes Russia for rights abuses in occupied Crimea

Menendez 's criticism came as Russian President Vladimir Putin began a two-day visit to Crimea , which Moscow seized in 2014 .
U.S .
Senator Bob Menendez ( Democrat-New Jersey ) has criticized Russia for what he called `` serious human rights '' abuses in Crimea during the six years since Russia 's illegal occupation and annexation of the peninsula from Ukraine .
`` Today , as it was six years ago , Crimea remains Ukrainian territory .
Period , '' Menendez , the ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee , said on March 18 , Radio Free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Read alsoTurkey once again declares its non-recognition of Russian annexation of Ukraine 's Crimea '' On this somber day , I stand in solidarity with the Crimean people , who continue to face serious human rights abuses at the hand of their occupiers , including torture , arbitrary arrests , and the erosion of basic freedoms of expression and association , '' Menendez said .
Menendez 's criticism came as Russian President Vladimir Putin began a two-day visit to Crimea , which Moscow seized in 2014 .
Moscow deployed military forces across Crimea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in February 2014 .
The following month , it carried out a hastily organized referendum on Crimea 's status that is considered illegitimate by more than 100 countries .
In a statement , Ukraine 's Foreign Ministry criticized Putin 's visit and denounced Russia ; s `` cynical '' disrespect for international law .
The visit coincided with Russian military exercises at a training range in Crimea .
Russia 's Defense Ministry said the drills involved 600 airborne troops In his statement , Menendez noted that Congress `` has made clear '' in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ United States should never recognize Russia 's illegal occupation of Crimea . ''
Menendez urged other countries around the world to `` adopt a policy of nonrecognition of Crimea as Russian territory . ''
`` When world leaders do not speak out against Putin 's use of violence to alter national borders , it only emboldens future illegal aggression , '' he said .

Menendez's criticism came as Russian President Vladimir Putin began a two-day visit to Crimea, which Moscow seized in 2014.
U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (Democrat-New Jersey) has criticized Russia for what he called "serious human rights" abuses in Crimea during the six years since Russia's illegal occupation and annexation of the peninsula from Ukraine.
"Today, as it was six years ago, Crimea remains Ukrainian territory. Period," Menendez, the ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said on March 18, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) said.
Read alsoTurkey once again declares its non-recognition of Russian annexation of Ukraine's Crimea
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"On this somber day, I stand in solidarity with the Crimean people, who continue to face serious human rights abuses at the hand of their occupiers, including torture, arbitrary arrests, and the erosion of basic freedoms of expression and association," Menendez said.
Menendez's criticism came as Russian President Vladimir Putin began a two-day visit to Crimea, which Moscow seized in 2014.
Moscow deployed military forces across Crimea and secured control of key government buildings in February 2014. The following month, it carried out a hastily organized referendum on Crimea's status that is considered illegitimate by more than 100 countries.
In a statement, Ukraine's Foreign Ministry criticized Putin's visit and denounced Russia's "cynical" disrespect for international law.
The visit coincided with Russian military exercises at a training range in Crimea. Russia's Defense Ministry said the drills involved 600 airborne troops
In his statement, Menendez noted that Congress "has made clear" in several pieces of legislation that "the United States should never recognize Russia's illegal occupation of Crimea."
Menendez urged other countries around the world to "adopt a policy of nonrecognition of Crimea as Russian territory."
"When world leaders do not speak out against Putin's use of violence to alter national borders, it only emboldens future illegal aggression," he said.


unian--2020-03-19--Go-A to represent Ukraine at Eurovision 2021

There will be no additional Vidbir national selection in Ukraine next year .
The Go_A band , who were supposed to represent Ukraine at Eurovision 2020 in the Netherlands from May 12 to May 16 , 2020 , will compete in next year 's song contest as this year 's event has been cancelled .
`` You have probably heard that this year 's Eurovision has been canceled for cogent reasons .
But we are pleased to inform that we will still represent Ukraine at Eurovision 2021 , '' the band said on Facebook on March 18 .
Next year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ STB will not conduct any additional national selection , also known as Vidbir , they said .
`` We are very grateful to each of you for the support and wild emotions that you have shared with us .
For confidence in ourselves and a triumphant spirit .
For turning our world upside down and becoming such a close musical family !
Take care of yourselves and your relatives , stay healthy !
And when the situation gets back to normal , we will definitely meet at concerts and festivals .
We love @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the performers said on Facebook .
This information was also confirmed by HR Director of Suspilne TV Viktoria Sydorenko .
`` We 've proposed that the winners of this year 's national selection , Go_A , should represent Ukraine at next year 's Eurovision .
They are the winners selected by the nation , and this will be the fairest decision in this situation .
I hope the fans of the national selection will support this proposal , '' she wrote on Facebook .
As was reported , Eurovision 2020 was cancelled over @ @ @ @ @ @ @

There will be no additional Vidbir national selection in Ukraine next year.
The Go_A band, who were supposed to represent Ukraine at Eurovision 2020 in the Netherlands from May 12 to May 16, 2020, will compete in next year's song contest as this year's event has been cancelled.
"You have probably heard that this year's Eurovision has been canceled for cogent reasons. But we are pleased to inform that we will still represent Ukraine at Eurovision 2021," the band said on Facebook on March 18.
Read alsoEurovision Song Contest 2020 in Rotterdam cancelled
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Next year, TV channels UA:Pershyi and STB will not conduct any additional national selection, also known as Vidbir, they said.
"We are very grateful to each of you for the support and wild emotions that you have shared with us. For confidence in ourselves and a triumphant spirit. For turning our world upside down and becoming such a close musical family! Take care of yourselves and your relatives, stay healthy! And when the situation gets back to normal, we will definitely meet at concerts and festivals. We love you! Yours, Go_A," the performers said on Facebook.
This information was also confirmed by HR Director of Suspilne TV Viktoria Sydorenko.
"We've proposed that the winners of this year's national selection, Go_A, should represent Ukraine at next year's Eurovision. They are the winners selected by the nation, and this will be the fairest decision in this situation. I hope the fans of the national selection will support this proposal," she wrote on Facebook.
As was reported, Eurovision 2020 was cancelled over the spread of the novel coronavirus.


unian--2020-03-18--Ukraine's confirmed coronavirus cases rise to 16

It 's an increase from the 14 reported on Tuesday , March 17 .
There are now 16 confirmed cases of the novel COVID-19 coronavirus in Ukraine , a rise from the 14 reported on Tuesday , March 17 .
The updated figure from the Ukrainian Health Ministry 's Public Health Center represents the number of confirmed cases as of 22:00 Kyiv time on Wednesday , March 18 .
Regions with confirmed cases are as follows : Chernivtsi ( 10 ) , Zhytomyr ( 1 ) , Kyiv ( 2 ) , Donetsk ( 1 ) , and the city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virological reference laboratory of Ukraine 's Public Health Center checks not only suspected cases , but also established contacts .
In total , more than 640 samples have already been examined .
On March 18 alone , the laboratory received 51 patients and 103 contact persons .
According to regional laboratories , six samples were tested with the use of the polymerase chain reaction ( PCR ) method on March 18 , all tested negative .
`` Most of people who are affected by the novel coronavirus experience it as the common acute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a kind of severe acute respiratory syndrome ( SARS ) , but it is caused by a previously unknown pathogen , '' the center said .
In particular , the World Health Organization estimates the death rate from COVID-19 at 3.4 % .
The Ukrainian Health Ministry says that 96.6 % of COVID-19 cases will not be fatal .
Ukraine 's first death from the new coronavirus ( a 71-year-old woman in Zhytomyr region ) was reported on March 13 .
The second death – a 33-year-old woman tested positive on March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

It's an increase from the 14 reported on Tuesday, March 17.
There are now 16 confirmed cases of the novel COVID-19 coronavirus in Ukraine, a rise from the 14 reported on Tuesday, March 17.
The updated figure from the Ukrainian Health Ministry's Public Health Center represents the number of confirmed cases as of 22:00 Kyiv time on Wednesday, March 18.
Read alsoFirst coronavirus case confirmed among Ukrainian legislators
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Regions with confirmed cases are as follows: Chernivtsi (10), Zhytomyr (1), Kyiv (2), Donetsk (1), and the city of Kyiv (2).
The virological reference laboratory of Ukraine's Public Health Center checks not only suspected cases, but also established contacts. In total, more than 640 samples have already been examined.
On March 18 alone, the laboratory received 51 patients and 103 contact persons.
According to regional laboratories, six samples were tested with the use of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method on March 18, all tested negative.
"Most of people who are affected by the novel coronavirus experience it as the common acute respiratory syndrome. Actually, this disease is a kind of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), but it is caused by a previously unknown pathogen," the center said.
In particular, the World Health Organization estimates the death rate from COVID-19 at 3.4%. The Ukrainian Health Ministry says that 96.6% of COVID-19 cases will not be fatal.
Ukraine's first death from the new coronavirus (a 71-year-old woman in Zhytomyr region) was reported on March 13. The second death – a 33-year-old woman tested positive on March 17 – was reported in Chernivtsi region.


unian--2020-03-18--Ukraine lawmakers ask Constitutional Court to check bill on prosecutors' reform

The president-prepared bill on the reform of Ukraine 's prosecution agencies was adopted in September 2019 .
Fifty Ukrainian lawmakers have lodged a motion with the Constitutional Court of Ukraine , asking to check whether the bill on the reform of prosecution authorities is in line with the country 's Constitution .
The point at issue is the bill on amendments to certain legislative acts of Ukraine regarding priority measures for the reform of the prosecutor 's offices dated September 19 , 2019 , the Constitutional Court 's press service said .
The lawmakers insist that the adoption of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ content and scope of citizens ' existing rights , introduced dualism of the legal foundation for the prosecution in Ukraine , prosecutors ' status , '' it said .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the Verkhovna Rada , Ukraine 's parliament , on September 19 , 2019 , adopted the presidential bill amending certain legislative acts of Ukraine regarding priority measures for reforming the prosecutor 's offices .
The bill on the prosecutor 's office stipulates that a citizen of Ukraine who has a law degree and at least 10 years ' experience @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and experience in the field of law or experience in legislative and/or law enforcement agency for at least five years ) is eligible to be appointed a prosecutor general .
It also foresees that Ukraine 's prosecution system consists of the Prosecutor General 's Office ; regional prosecutor 's offices ; district prosecutors ( formerly local prosecutors ) ; the specialized anti-corruption prosecutor 's office .
Yet , military prosecutors are not part of the system .

The president-prepared bill on the reform of Ukraine's prosecution agencies was adopted in September 2019.
Fifty Ukrainian lawmakers have lodged a motion with the Constitutional Court of Ukraine, asking to check whether the bill on the reform of prosecution authorities is in line with the country's Constitution.
The point at issue is the bill on amendments to certain legislative acts of Ukraine regarding priority measures for the reform of the prosecutor's offices dated September 19, 2019, the Constitutional Court's press service said.
Read alsoNew Prosecutor General: Who is Iryna Venediktova
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The lawmakers insist that the adoption of the bill in question "has narrowed the content and scope of citizens' existing rights, introduced dualism of the legal foundation for the prosecution in Ukraine, prosecutors' status," it said.
As UNIAN reported earlier, the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament, on September 19, 2019, adopted the presidential bill amending certain legislative acts of Ukraine regarding priority measures for reforming the prosecutor's offices.
The bill on the prosecutor's office stipulates that a citizen of Ukraine who has a law degree and at least 10 years' experience in law (may have higher education and experience in the field of law or experience in legislative and/or law enforcement agency for at least five years) is eligible to be appointed a prosecutor general.
It also foresees that Ukraine's prosecution system consists of the Prosecutor General's Office; regional prosecutor's offices; district prosecutors (formerly local prosecutors); the specialized anti-corruption prosecutor's office. Yet, military prosecutors are not part of the system.


unian--2020-03-18--EC proposes new Eastern Partnership policy objectives for beyond 2020

The Commission and the European External Action Service expect endorsement of the proposal in view of the Eastern Partnership Summit in June 2020 .
The European Commission has proposed new , long-term Eastern Partnership policy objectives for beyond 2020 .
`` Today , the European Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy have put forward a proposal for the long-term policy objectives of the Eastern Partnership beyond 2020 , '' they said in an official statement on March 18 .
`` These aim at increasing trade , strengthening connectivity and deepening economic integration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Georgia , the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine , strengthening democratic institutions , the rule of law , environmental and climate resilience , supporting the digital transformation , and promoting fair and inclusive societies . ''
The Commission and the European External Action Service expect the Member States and partner countries to endorse the proposal in view of the Eastern Partnership Summit in June 2020 , which will give a mandate to develop a new set of tangible deliverables building on the current 20 Deliverables for 2020 .
`` Our neighbours ' strength @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; the Eastern Partnership remains a crucial element of the EU 's foreign policy .
Our proposals will further strengthen our six partner countries , reflecting the priorities and challenges that we share , while maintaining the emphasis on delivering tangible , positive results for all citizens , '' High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell said .
`` We are sending a very clear message to our Eastern partner countries : we will help you to build strong economies and to create growth and jobs by attracting foreign direct investment and by strengthening connectivity in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ energy and environment .
We will work closely together to address today 's challenges across the board , including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic , '' Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Olivér Várhelyi said in turn .
As UNIAN reported earlier , France rejects proposals that the European Union 's initiative regarding the six countries of Eastern Europe , known as the Eastern Partnership , may contribute to the likelihood of future membership of Ukraine , Georgia , Moldova , Armenia , Azerbaijan , and Belarus in the European Union .
Diplomats say France @ @ @ @ @ @ @ proposes 50 % of the Eastern Partnership program 's budget be funneled into environmental protection efforts .
The Eastern Partnership was launched in 2009 with the aim to strengthening and deepening the political and economic relations between the EU , its Member States and Armenia , Azerbaijan , Belarus , Georgia , the Republic of Moldova , and Ukraine .
The Partnership has developed according to the interests , ambitions and progress of each partner , allowing for differentiation , but in a flexible and inclusive way to tackle common and global challenges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ policy objectives were defined through agenda 20 Deliverables for 2020 , agreed in 2017 .

The Commission and the European External Action Service expect endorsement of the proposal in view of the Eastern Partnership Summit in June 2020.
The European Commission has proposed new, long-term Eastern Partnership policy objectives for beyond 2020.
"Today, the European Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy have put forward a proposal for the long-term policy objectives of the Eastern Partnership beyond 2020," they said in an official statement on March 18. "These aim at increasing trade, strengthening connectivity and deepening economic integration with Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine, strengthening democratic institutions, the rule of law, environmental and climate resilience, supporting the digital transformation, and promoting fair and inclusive societies."
The Commission and the European External Action Service expect the Member States and partner countries to endorse the proposal in view of the Eastern Partnership Summit in June 2020, which will give a mandate to develop a new set of tangible deliverables building on the current 20 Deliverables for 2020.
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Read alsoUkraine meets criteria for NATO Enhanced Opportunity Partner status – defense minister
"Our neighbours' strength is also the European Union's strength; the Eastern Partnership remains a crucial element of the EU's foreign policy. Our proposals will further strengthen our six partner countries, reflecting the priorities and challenges that we share, while maintaining the emphasis on delivering tangible, positive results for all citizens," High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell said.
"We are sending a very clear message to our Eastern partner countries: we will help you to build strong economies and to create growth and jobs by attracting foreign direct investment and by strengthening connectivity in key sectors, such as transport, energy and environment. We will work closely together to address today's challenges across the board, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic," Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Olivér Várhelyi said in turn.
As UNIAN reported earlier, France rejects proposals that the European Union's initiative regarding the six countries of Eastern Europe, known as the Eastern Partnership, may contribute to the likelihood of future membership of Ukraine, Georgia, Moldova, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Belarus in the European Union. Diplomats say France does not want to disappoint Moscow and proposes 50% of the Eastern Partnership program's budget be funneled into environmental protection efforts.
The Eastern Partnership was launched in 2009 with the aim to strengthening and deepening the political and economic relations between the EU, its Member States and Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, the Republic of Moldova, and Ukraine. The Partnership has developed according to the interests, ambitions and progress of each partner, allowing for differentiation, but in a flexible and inclusive way to tackle common and global challenges jointly and foster regional integration. Current policy objectives were defined through agenda 20 Deliverables for 2020, agreed in 2017.


unian--2020-03-18--CNBC: Oil falls 24% in 3rd worst day on record, sinks to more than 18-year low

International benchmark Brent crude shed 14.1 % , or $ 4.07 , to trade at $ 24.67 , its lowest @ @ @ @ @ dropped 24 % to a more than 18-year low on Wednesday as the coronavirus pandemic @ @ @ @ @ crude , and as rising worries about a global recession lead to fears of longer-term @ @ @ @ @ Texas Intermediate crude fell 24.4 % , or $ 6.58 , to settle at $ @ @ @ @ @ lowest level since February 2002 , CNBC said .
At the low of the day @ @ @ @ @ 20.06 .
It was WTI 's third worst day on record .
International benchmark Brent @ @ @ @ @ or $ 4.07 , to trade at $ 24.67 , its lowest level since 2003 @ @ @ @ @ on both the supply and demand side .
A slowdown in worldwide travel and business @ @ @ @ @ , just as powerhouse producers Saudi Arabia and Russia prepare to ramp up production .

International benchmark Brent crude shed 14.1%, or $4.07, to trade at $24.67, its lowest level since 2003.
Oil dropped 24% to a more than 18-year low on Wednesday as the coronavirus pandemic continues to sap demand for crude, and as rising worries about a global recession lead to fears of longer-term demand destruction.
U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude fell 24.4%, or $6.58, to settle at $20.37 per barrel, its lowest level since February 2002, CNBC said.
Read alsoUkraine starts handling crude oil transit shipments heading to Belarus
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At the low of the day, the contract hit $20.06. It was WTI's third worst day on record.
International benchmark Brent crude shed 14.1%, or $4.07, to trade at $24.67, its lowest level since 2003.
Oil is getting hit on both the supply and demand side. A slowdown in worldwide travel and business activity is weighing on demand, just as powerhouse producers Saudi Arabia and Russia prepare to ramp up production.


unian--2020-03-18--Coronavirus vaccine: WHO announces first trial

WHO and its partners are organizing a study in many countries to compare untested treatments .
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) has begun the first trial of the COVID-19 coronavirus vaccine .
`` As you know , the first vaccine trial has begun , just 60 days after the genetic sequence of the virus was shared by China .
This is an incredible achievement , '' WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said at a media briefing on March 18 .
Read alsoNew coronavirus can persist in air for hours and on surfaces for days : study '' We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have come together to systemically evaluate experimental therapeutics , '' he added .
Yet , he says multiple small trials with different methodologies may not give the `` clear , strong evidence we need about which treatments help to save lives . ''
WHO and its partners are therefore organizing a study in many countries in which some of these untested treatments are compared with each other .
`` This large , international study is designed to generate the robust data we need , to show which treatments are the most effective .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ trial , '' he said .

WHO and its partners are organizing a study in many countries to compare untested treatments.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has begun the first trial of the COVID-19 coronavirus vaccine.
"As you know, the first vaccine trial has begun, just 60 days after the genetic sequence of the virus was shared by China. This is an incredible achievement," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said at a media briefing on March 18.
Read alsoNew coronavirus can persist in air for hours and on surfaces for days: study
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"We commend the researchers around the world who have come together to systemically evaluate experimental therapeutics," he added.
Yet, he says multiple small trials with different methodologies may not give the "clear, strong evidence we need about which treatments help to save lives."
WHO and its partners are therefore organizing a study in many countries in which some of these untested treatments are compared with each other.
"This large, international study is designed to generate the robust data we need, to show which treatments are the most effective. We have called this study the SOLIDARITY trial," he said.


unian--2020-03-18--Ukrspyrt launches more distilleries to increase medical alcohol output amid COVID-19

The enterprise is ready to further boost output .
Ukraine 's state-run distillery Ukrspyrt has launched four more facilities to meet increased demand for ethyl alcohol amid the spread of the novel COVID-19 coronavirus in the country .
`` Ukrspyrt has launched four more distilleries over the increased demand for medical alcohol amid the spread of the COVID-19 virus ( coronavirus ) , '' the alcohol producer said in a statement .
It says that ten distilleries were to be working in March , but the enterprise revised its production plan to meet the healthcare sector 's needs .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to meet the healthcare system 's needs .
We 've quickly responded to the growing demand : as of today , 14 distilleries have been operating simultaneously .
If necessary , we are ready to continue to increase production volumes .
We have both capacities and raw materials for this , '' the statement quotes acting Director of Ukrspyrt Serhiy Bleskun as saying .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the Cabinet of Ministers on March 11 decided to introduce a quarantine in Ukraine from March 12 to April 3 to prevent the spread @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Business Association called on the Ukrainian government to unblock the registration of disinfectants in Ukraine , because they are in high demand due to the enhanced disinfection regime and anti-epidemic measures over the spread of COVID-19 in Ukraine .
Ukrspyrt had earlier announced its readiness to provide medical facilities in Ukraine with ethyl alcohol .
UNIAN memo .
State-owned Ukrspyrt , which was set up on the basis of a consortium with the same name in 2010 , holds a monopoly on alcohol production in Ukraine .
The government has already launched its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over by July 1 , 2021 .
As many as 41 distillation facilities belonging to the enterprise are to be put up for sale .

Ukrspyrt launches more distilleries to increase medical alcohol output amid COVID-19
19:45, 18.03.20 2571
The enterprise is ready to further boost output.
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unian--2020-03-18--ICRC President's visit to Ukraine to take place as soon as possible – phone call with Zelensky

He wants to check the humanitarian situation in Donbas first-hand .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has had a phone call with President of the International Committee of the Red Cross ( ICRC ) Peter Maurer during which they have agreed that the latter 's visit to Ukraine will take place as soon as possible .
`` The parties agreed that the visit of the ICRC President to Ukraine , in particular for personal acquaintance with the humanitarian situation in Donbas , will take place as soon as possible , '' the Ukrainian president 's press service said on March 18 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its citizens from Russian captivity – envoy to TCG Maurer also announced plans for the ICRC 's further activities in Ukraine , emphasizing that cooperation with the Ukrainian side is and will remain one of the priorities on the agenda of the organization he chairs .
What is more , the ICRC President thanked the Ukrainian party for taking steps to ensure access to the detained persons for ICRC representatives .
He pledged to take personal control over the issue of ICRC staff members ' access to the detainees , as agreed during @ @ @ @

He wants to check the humanitarian situation in Donbas first-hand.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has had a phone call with President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Peter Maurer during which they have agreed that the latter's visit to Ukraine will take place as soon as possible.
"The parties agreed that the visit of the ICRC President to Ukraine, in particular for personal acquaintance with the humanitarian situation in Donbas, will take place as soon as possible," the Ukrainian president's press service said on March 18.
Read alsoUkraine to take back all its citizens from Russian captivity – envoy to TCG
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Maurer also announced plans for the ICRC's further activities in Ukraine, emphasizing that cooperation with the Ukrainian side is and will remain one of the priorities on the agenda of the organization he chairs.
What is more, the ICRC President thanked the Ukrainian party for taking steps to ensure access to the detained persons for ICRC representatives.
He pledged to take personal control over the issue of ICRC staff members' access to the detainees, as agreed during the Normandy meeting.


unian--2020-03-18--Reuters: Ukraine central bank introduces long-term refinancing support for lenders

The measure is aimed at supporting banks ' liquidity .
Ukraine 's central bank on Wednesday introduced long-term refinancing loans for up to five years for banks , aiming to support their liquidity amid the market turbulence from the coronavirus epidemic .
The move would help maintain financial stability in the country and stimulate economic growth , the bank said in a statement , Reuters reported .
It said it would use long-term liquidity assistance in addition to short-term refinancing means .
Read alsoShare of non-performing loans in Ukraine in 2019 below 50 % for the first time in three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ share of non-performing loans ( NPLs ) in Ukraine 's banking system in 2019 is below 50 % for the first time in three years , having shrunk to 48.4 % as of January 1 , 2020 .
The main improvement factors were the following : an increase in retail lending ( by about 30 % year-over-year ) ; major credit portfolio restructuring of two state-owned banks of over UAH 30 billion ( US $ 1.2 billion ) ; major efforts by banks with foreign capital to optimize portfolios by selling and writing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowance ; and appreciation of the hryvnia , Ukraine 's national currency .

The measure is aimed at supporting banks' liquidity.
Ukraine's central bank on Wednesday introduced long-term refinancing loans for up to five years for banks, aiming to support their liquidity amid the market turbulence from the coronavirus epidemic.
The move would help maintain financial stability in the country and stimulate economic growth, the bank said in a statement, Reuters reported.
It said it would use long-term liquidity assistance in addition to short-term refinancing means.
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Read alsoShare of non-performing loans in Ukraine in 2019 below 50% for the first time in three years
As UNIAN reported earlier, the share of non-performing loans (NPLs) in Ukraine's banking system in 2019 is below 50% for the first time in three years, having shrunk to 48.4% as of January 1, 2020.
The main improvement factors were the following: an increase in retail lending (by about 30% year-over-year); major credit portfolio restructuring of two state-owned banks of over UAH 30 billion (US$1.2 billion); major efforts by banks with foreign capital to optimize portfolios by selling and writing down NPLs on the account of loss allowance; and appreciation of the hryvnia, Ukraine's national currency.


unian--2020-03-18--Russia deploying coronavirus disinformation to sow panic in West, EU document says

A specialist EU database has recorded almost 80 cases of disinformation about coronavirus since January 22 .
Russian media have deployed a `` significant disinformation campaign '' against the West to worsen the impact of the coronavirus , generate panic and sow distrust , according to a European Union document .
Pushing fake news online in English , Spanish , Italian , German and French , the Russian campaign uses contradictory , confusing and malicious reports to make it harder for the EU to communicate its response to the pandemic , said the report seen by Reuters .
The Kremlin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they were unfounded and lacked common sense .
`` A significant disinformation campaign by Russian state media and pro-Kremlin outlets regarding COVID-19 is ongoing , '' said the nine-page internal document produced by the European External Action Service , dated March 16 .
`` The overarching aim of Kremlin disinformation is to aggravate the public health crisis in Western countries ... in line with the Kremlin 's broader strategy of attempting to subvert European societies . ''
A specialist EU database has recorded almost 80 cases of disinformation about coronavirus since January 22 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cited examples from Lithuania to Ukraine .
It said that on social media , Russian state-funded Spanish-language RT Spanish was the 12th most popular news source on coronavirus between January and mid-March , based on the amount of news shared on social media .
The EEAS declined to comment directly on the report , but a spokesman said the EU was in contact with Google , Facebook , Twitter and Microsoft to `` to discuss the spread of disinformation around the outbreak of COVID-19 . ''
The EU and NATO have accused Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to try to destabilize the West by exploiting divisions in society .
`` Pro-Kremlin disinformation messages advance a narrative that coronavirus is a human creation , weaponised by the West , '' said the report , first cited by the Financial Times .
It quoted fake news created by Russia in Italy , the second-most heavily affected country in the world , that health systems would be unable to cope and doctors would choose who lived or died because of a lack of beds .
The EEAS has also shared information with Slovakia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country 's prime minister , Peter Pellegrini , of being infected with the virus and saying he may have passed on the infection to others at recent summits .
EU leaders have been conferring by videoconferences since early March .

A specialist EU database has recorded almost 80 cases of disinformation about coronavirus since January 22.
Russian media have deployed a "significant disinformation campaign" against the West to worsen the impact of the coronavirus, generate panic and sow distrust, according to a European Union document.
Pushing fake news online in English, Spanish, Italian, German and French, the Russian campaign uses contradictory, confusing and malicious reports to make it harder for the EU to communicate its response to the pandemic, said the report seen by Reuters.
The Kremlin denied the allegations on Wednesday, saying they were unfounded and lacked common sense.
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"A significant disinformation campaign by Russian state media and pro-Kremlin outlets regarding COVID-19 is ongoing," said the nine-page internal document produced by the European External Action Service, dated March 16. "The overarching aim of Kremlin disinformation is to aggravate the public health crisis in Western countries ... in line with the Kremlin's broader strategy of attempting to subvert European societies."
A specialist EU database has recorded almost 80 cases of disinformation about coronavirus since January 22, it said.
Read alsoU.S. raising alarm over Russian disinformation on coronavirus
The EU document cited examples from Lithuania to Ukraine. It said that on social media, Russian state-funded Spanish-language RT Spanish was the 12th most popular news source on coronavirus between January and mid-March, based on the amount of news shared on social media.
The EEAS declined to comment directly on the report, but a spokesman said the EU was in contact with Google, Facebook, Twitter and Microsoft to "to discuss the spread of disinformation around the outbreak of COVID-19."
The EU and NATO have accused Russia of covert action, including disinformation, to try to destabilize the West by exploiting divisions in society.
"Pro-Kremlin disinformation messages advance a narrative that coronavirus is a human creation, weaponised by the West," said the report, first cited by the Financial Times.
It quoted fake news created by Russia in Italy, the second-most heavily affected country in the world, that health systems would be unable to cope and doctors would choose who lived or died because of a lack of beds.
The EEAS has also shared information with Slovakia over the spread of fake news accusing the country's prime minister, Peter Pellegrini, of being infected with the virus and saying he may have passed on the infection to others at recent summits.
EU leaders have been conferring by videoconferences since early March.