unian--2020-03-13--Reuters: Oil rises 2% but set for biggest weekly thumping since 2008

Just as travel bans , cancelled events and other economic disruptions eat into crude demand , major oil producers are planning to add more crude to an oversupplied market .
Oil prices were set for their worst weekly drubbing since the 2008 financial crisis , despite eking out a 2 % on Friday , as investors eyed evaporating demand from the coronavirus pandemic and a production ramp-up by top producers .
Brent crude LCOc1 was up 70 cents , or 2.1 % , at $ 33.92 a barrel by 0540 GMT after falling more than 7 % on Thursday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to fall around 25 % , the biggest weekly decline since December 2008 , when it fell nearly 26 % , as reported by Reuters .
U.S. West Texas Intermediate ( WTI ) crude CLc1 rose 80 cents , or 2.5 % , to $ 32.30 after falling more than $ 1 earlier in the session .
WTI is set to drop more than 22 % this week , also the most since the height of the financial crisis .
`` It 's been a very rough week and so it 's not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the weekend , '' said Michael McCarthy , chief market strategist at CMC Markets in Sydney .
`` I would also point out that in the context of the recent moves it 's not really a major move , '' he added , noting that `` volumes are terrible '' and down significantly on average .
Read alsoReuters : Oil slumps as U.S. bans travel from Europe over pandemic Just as travel bans , cancelled events and other economic disruptions eat into crude demand , major oil producers are planning to add more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flood of low-priced oil from Saudi Arabia , the world 's largest exporter , and the United Arab Emirates is intensifying the pressure on prices after the collapse of a price supporting agreement with Russia last week .
`` The surge in low-cost production is signiﬁcantly larger than expected with the collapse in demand due to the coronavirus looking increasingly broad , '' said Goldman Sachs , which now expects what it said would be a record high oil surplus of 6 million bpd by April .
Russia , the world 's second-largest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return to its agreement with the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries ( OPEC ) .
Domestic oil producers met with Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak on Thursday but did not discuss returning to the deal , with the head of Gazprom Neft saying they plan to raise output in April .
`` Both Russia and the Saudis are digging in deeper , '' said Stratfor oil analyst Greg Priddy .
Elsewhere equities markets retraced earlier heavy losses after U.S. markets fell by the most since Black Monday in 1987 on Thursday after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on travel to the United States from Europe .
U.S. energy historian Daniel Yergin said it may be some time before oil markets are relieved as the coronavirus courses through the world and disrupts daily life while Saudi Arabia and Russia try to flood the market .
However , the price slump may be doing the work needed to reduce supply .
Energy companies in the U.S. , the world biggest crude producer , are preparing to cut investment and drilling plans because of the plunging prices .

Just as travel bans, cancelled events and other economic disruptions eat into crude demand, major oil producers are planning to add more crude to an oversupplied market.
Oil prices were set for their worst weekly drubbing since the 2008 financial crisis, despite eking out a 2% on Friday, as investors eyed evaporating demand from the coronavirus pandemic and a production ramp-up by top producers.
Brent crude LCOc1 was up 70 cents, or 2.1%, at $33.92 a barrel by 0540 GMT after falling more than 7% on Thursday. For the week, Brent is set to fall around 25%, the biggest weekly decline since December 2008, when it fell nearly 26%, as reported by Reuters.
U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude CLc1 rose 80 cents, or 2.5%, to $32.30 after falling more than $1 earlier in the session. WTI is set to drop more than 22% this week, also the most since the height of the financial crisis.
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"It's been a very rough week and so it's not impossible people are locking in ahead of the weekend," said Michael McCarthy, chief market strategist at CMC Markets in Sydney.
"I would also point out that in the context of the recent moves it's not really a major move," he added, noting that "volumes are terrible" and down significantly on average.
Read alsoReuters: Oil slumps as U.S. bans travel from Europe over pandemic
Just as travel bans, cancelled events and other economic disruptions eat into crude demand, major oil producers are planning to add more crude to an oversupplied market.
A flood of low-priced oil from Saudi Arabia, the world's largest exporter, and the United Arab Emirates is intensifying the pressure on prices after the collapse of a price supporting agreement with Russia last week.
"The surge in low-cost production is significantly larger than expected with the collapse in demand due to the coronavirus looking increasingly broad," said Goldman Sachs, which now expects what it said would be a record high oil surplus of 6 million bpd by April.
Russia, the world's second-largest producer, does not appear willing to return to its agreement with the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).
Domestic oil producers met with Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak on Thursday but did not discuss returning to the deal, with the head of Gazprom Neft saying they plan to raise output in April.
"Both Russia and the Saudis are digging in deeper," said Stratfor oil analyst Greg Priddy.
Elsewhere equities markets retraced earlier heavy losses after U.S. markets fell by the most since Black Monday in 1987 on Thursday after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a ban on travel to the United States from Europe.
U.S. energy historian Daniel Yergin said it may be some time before oil markets are relieved as the coronavirus courses through the world and disrupts daily life while Saudi Arabia and Russia try to flood the market.
However, the price slump may be doing the work needed to reduce supply. Energy companies in the U.S., the world biggest crude producer, are preparing to cut investment and drilling plans because of the plunging prices.


unian--2020-03-13--Ukraine can't afford any dragging in IMF talks – central bank chief

Smolii has stressed that in the face of increasing turbulence in world markets , it is critical to seal a cooperation program with the IMF .
In the context of the unfolding global economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic , Ukraine can not hesitate in the issue of its cooperation with the International Monetary Fund , National Bank Governor Yakiv Smolii said at today 's meeting with G7 ambassadors .
`` Our country can not afford further delay in today 's conditions of increasingly difficult access to international capital markets in the year of peak debt payments .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirmed continued pursuit of ongoing reforms and cooperation with the IMF , '' the NBU press service quotes Smolii as saying .
The NBU chief stressed that in the face of increasing turbulence in world markets , the conclusion of a cooperation program with the IMF is critical .
Smolii also noted the limited effect and neutral influence of the coronavirus spread on the Ukrainian economy , but in the future the country 's economy may feel a certain impact .
The spread of coronavirus may lead to a recession in the global @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Consequently , the NBU 's decision to lower the key rate from 11 % to 10 % is aimed at supporting the Ukrainian economy in such difficult times .
Read alsoUkraine 's new PM speaks with IMF mission chief over phone '' The National Bank constantly monitors the situation with the spread of coronavirus in the world and in Ukraine , and the state of the global financial and commodity markets , being ready to take prompt action if necessary , '' Smolii said .
As UNIAN reported earlier , on March 4 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oleksiy Honcharuk and his government , appointing Denys Shmyhal as new head of the Cabinet of Ministers .
The new Minister of Finance is Ihor Umansky .
On March 12 , the International Monetary Fund announced its readiness to support Ukraine 's efforts to implementreforms aimed at economic growth and financial stability , in cooperation with the new government .
Ukraine and the IMF in December 2019 reached a staff-level agreement on the new extended fund facility for Ukraine worth $ 5.5 billion .
The decision on the new program is yet to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while no date for consideration of the Ukraine issue has been scheduled so far as Ukraine has not fulfilled all conditions set for the program to be launched .
On March 11 , Prime Minister Shmyhal announced that Ukraine would fulfill these conditions within two to three weeks .

Ukraine can't afford any dragging in IMF talks – central bank chief
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Smolii has stressed that in the face of increasing turbulence in world markets, it is critical to seal a cooperation program with the IMF.
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unian--2020-03-13--Ukraine territorial integrity: EU renews Russia sanctions for another six months

They currently apply to 175 persons and 44 entities .
The EU Council on Friday , March 13 , decided @ @ @ @ @ of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity , sovereignty and independence of Ukraine should @ @ @ @ @ six months until September 15 , 2020 .
`` These restrictive measures provide not only @ @ @ @ @ , but also a prohibition against making funds or other economic resources available to the @ @ @ @ @ statement reads .
Read alsoU.S .
sanctions another subsidiary of Russia 's Rosneft over Venezuela @ @ @ @ @ 175 persons and 44 entities , following the removal of two deceased persons from the @ @ @ @ @ targeting specific sectors of the Russian economy , currently in place until 31 July 2020 @ @ @ @ @ in response to the illegal annexation of Crimea and Sevastopol , limited to the territory @ @ @ @ @ currently in place until 23 June 2020 .
The legal acts were published in the @ @ @ @ @ , 2020 .

They currently apply to 175 persons and 44 entities.
The EU Council on Friday, March 13, decided that current sanctions in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine should be extended for a further six months until September 15, 2020.
"These restrictive measures provide not only for a freezing of funds, but also a prohibition against making funds or other economic resources available to the listed persons," the statement reads.
Read alsoU.S. sanctions another subsidiary of Russia's Rosneft over Venezuela oil
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They currently apply to 175 persons and 44 entities, following the removal of two deceased persons from the list.
Other EU measures in place include:
Economic sanctions targeting specific sectors of the Russian economy, currently in place until 31 July 2020; and
Restrictive measures in response to the illegal annexation of Crimea and Sevastopol, limited to the territory of Crimea and Sevastopol, currently in place until 23 June 2020.
The legal acts were published in the Official Journal on March 13, 2020.


unian--2020-03-13--Forced isolation and work from home: Ukraine's government drafts "coronavirus" bill

Among other measures , the draft bans mass events with more than 200 participants .
Minister of Health of Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ bill on coronavirus , which should increase the effectiveness of government efforts to curb the @ @ @ @ @ ministry 's press service says the draft provides for : - Streamlined procurement of goods @ @ @ @ @ to prevent and combat coronavirus , which will speed up the process of purchasing personal @ @ @ @ @ ; - An opportunity for employees to work from home ; - A ban on @ @ @ @ @ than 200 participants ; - A ban on control and supervision procedures during the implementation @ @ @ @ @ and fighting the coronavirus ; - A clear algorithm of forced isolation and self-isolation and @ @ @ @ @ rules .
As reported earlier , the Ministry of Health has recommended all employers for @ @ @ @ @ quarantine to allow employees to work from home .

Among other measures, the draft bans mass events with more than 200 participants.
Minister of Health of Ukraine Ilya Yemets has introduced a bill on coronavirus, which should increase the effectiveness of government efforts to curb the spread of infection.
The ministry's press service says the draft provides for:
- Streamlined procurement of goods, works, and services to prevent and combat coronavirus, which will speed up the process of purchasing personal protective equipment and test systems;
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- An opportunity for employees to work from home;
- A ban on holding mass events with more than 200 participants;
- A ban on control and supervision procedures during the implementation of measures related to preventing and fighting the coronavirus;
Read alsoUkraine reports first coronavirus death
- Strengthening border control; and
- A clear algorithm of forced isolation and self-isolation and liability for non-compliance with quarantine rules.
As reported earlier, the Ministry of Health has recommended all employers for the period of a national-wide quarantine to allow employees to work from home.


unian--2020-03-13--Chinese spy gets 10 years in prison in Ukraine

SBU operatives caught the perpetrator red-handed during a sting raid upon his attempt to obtain classified papers .
A citizen of the People ’ s Republic of China , Shu Yuanjie , has been sentenced to 10 years in prison in Ukraine on espionage charges , the Security Service of Ukraine reports .
The investigation proved that the spy , a Ph.D. in Technical Sciences , had been gathering intelligence under the pretext of official technical sci-tech cooperation between China and Ukraine .
During his business trips to Ukraine , the foreigner attempted to recruit a group of Ukrainian scientists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , adding that for a monetary reward the man planned to get access to classified projects of Ukraine 's rocket and space industry .
SBU operatives caught the perpetrator red-handed during a sting raid upon his attempt to obtain classified papers .
The court found the man guilty of committing a crime under Part 1 Article 114 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine .
The verdict has come into force .
It 's not the first time Ukrainian research institutions are targeted by foreign intelligence , the SBU notes .
In July 2011 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ North Korea 's Economics and Trade Mission , who had tried to acquire classified documents on rocket projects .
They have been sentenced to eight years of imprisonment for espionage .

SBU operatives caught the perpetrator red-handed during a sting raid upon his attempt to obtain classified papers.
A citizen of the People’s Republic of China, Shu Yuanjie, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison in Ukraine on espionage charges, the Security Service of Ukraine reports.
The investigation proved that the spy, a Ph.D. in Technical Sciences, had been gathering intelligence under the pretext of official technical sci-tech cooperation between China and Ukraine.
During his business trips to Ukraine, the foreigner attempted to recruit a group of Ukrainian scientists into confidential cooperation, the report says, adding that for a monetary reward the man planned to get access to classified projects of Ukraine's rocket and space industry.
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SBU operatives caught the perpetrator red-handed during a sting raid upon his attempt to obtain classified papers.
Read alsoUkraine's counterintel delivers annual report: 90 sentenced for high treason, terrorism
The court found the man guilty of committing a crime under Part 1 Article 114 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. The verdict has come into force.
It's not the first time Ukrainian research institutions are targeted by foreign intelligence, the SBU notes.
In July 2011, counterintel operatives detained two officials with North Korea's Economics and Trade Mission, who had tried to acquire classified documents on rocket projects. They have been sentenced to eight years of imprisonment for espionage.


unian--2020-03-13--U.S. sanctions another subsidiary of Russia's Rosneft over Venezuela oil

The measure against TNK follows U.S. sanctions against Rosneft Trading S.A. Feb. 18 , 2020 , on similar claims .
The United States imposed sanctions on another Russian state-controlled Rosneft Oil subsidiary for providing financial help to Venezuela 's Nicolas Maduro regime .
Trading International S.A. , a Swiss-based unit of Rosneft that has been operating in the oil sector of the Venezuelan economy , was directly involved in efforts to assist Rosneft Trading S.A. to evade U.S. sanctions , the U.S. government said Thursday , according to the Voice of America .
`` TNK Trading International S.A. is another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Venezuelan crude oil , '' U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement .
`` The Trump administration remains committed to targeting those who support the corrupt regime 's exploitation of Venezuela 's oil assets . ''
TNK purchased nearly 14 million barrels of crude oil from Petroleos de Venezuela in January 2020 alone , U.S. officials said .
The measure against TNK follows U.S. sanctions against Rosneft Trading S.A. Feb. 18 , 2020 on similar claims .
`` The people of Venezuela , interim President Juan Guaido , and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support of our international partners , '' U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement .
`` We call on the international community to join us in applying stronger pressure on Maduro and his corrupt former regime to relinquish its illegitimate hold on power in Venezuela . ''
In January 2019 , the U.S. recognized Guaido as the OPEC nation 's legitimate interim president and since then has increased its economic and diplomatic pressure to force the ousting of Maduro 's regime .
About 60 nations recognized opposition leader Juan Guaido @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and consider Maduro to be illegitimate .

The measure against TNK follows U.S. sanctions against Rosneft Trading S.A. Feb. 18, 2020, on similar claims.
The United States imposed sanctions on another Russian state-controlled Rosneft Oil subsidiary for providing financial help to Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro regime.
Trading International S.A., a Swiss-based unit of Rosneft that has been operating in the oil sector of the Venezuelan economy, was directly involved in efforts to assist Rosneft Trading S.A. to evade U.S. sanctions, the U.S. government said Thursday, according to the Voice of America.
"TNK Trading International S.A. is another Rosneft subsidiary brokering the sale and transport of Venezuelan crude oil," U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement. "The Trump administration remains committed to targeting those who support the corrupt regime's exploitation of Venezuela's oil assets."
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TNK purchased nearly 14 million barrels of crude oil from Petroleos de Venezuela in January 2020 alone, U.S. officials said.
The measure against TNK follows U.S. sanctions against Rosneft Trading S.A. Feb. 18, 2020 on similar claims.
Read alsoPutin starts war on U.S. shale oil industry
"The people of Venezuela, interim President Juan Guaido, and the democratically elected National Assembly need the continued support of our international partners," U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement. "We call on the international community to join us in applying stronger pressure on Maduro and his corrupt former regime to relinquish its illegitimate hold on power in Venezuela."
In January 2019, the U.S. recognized Guaido as the OPEC nation's legitimate interim president and since then has increased its economic and diplomatic pressure to force the ousting of Maduro's regime.
About 60 nations recognized opposition leader Juan Guaido last year as Venezuela's legitimate leader and consider Maduro to be illegitimate.


unian--2020-03-13--Coronavirus update: Ukraine to suspend all air travel March 17

Citizens will not be allowed to leave country .
Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine , Dmytro Razumkov , has announced a `` full restriction '' on air passenger traffic from March 17 .
`` I think that early next week , operations of checkpoints at our country 's air gates will be restricted , '' Parliament Speaker told one of the Ukrainian TV channels , an UNIAN correspondent reports .
Razumkov noted that the National Security and Defense Council had developed a list of preventive measures that would be implemented in the near future .
Read alsoUkraine to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for two weeks '' With regard to passenger traffic – on March 17 , from 00:00 , it will be completely restricted , '' Razumkov said .
To clarify whether it is about completely closing all incoming and outbound traffic in general , Razumkov said : `` Air passenger traffic – full [ restriction ] .
If we speak about land and sea , first of all , land , our citizens will be able to return to the territory of our state . ''
To the question on what should Ukrainians do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Ukraine until March 17 , Razumkov noted : `` I think that air transportation is not the only one available , and I think that there will be other mechanisms for the return of our citizens . ''
`` However , citizens of Ukraine will not be able to cross out of Ukraine , '' added Razumkov.In particular , Parliament Speaker explained that `` motor transport is a way of returning to the territory of our state . ''
He also added : `` In fact , we are not closing air @ @ @ @ @ @ @ border ] checkpoints . ''

Citizens will not be allowed to leave country.
Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Dmytro Razumkov, has announced a "full restriction" on air passenger traffic from March 17.
"I think that early next week, operations of checkpoints at our country's air gates will be restricted," Parliament Speaker told one of the Ukrainian TV channels, an UNIAN correspondent reports.
Razumkov noted that the National Security and Defense Council had developed a list of preventive measures that would be implemented in the near future.
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Read alsoUkraine to close border for foreigners in 48 hours for two weeks
"With regard to passenger traffic – on March 17, from 00:00, it will be completely restricted," Razumkov said.
To clarify whether it is about completely closing all incoming and outbound traffic in general, Razumkov said: "Air passenger traffic – full [restriction]. If we speak about land and sea, first of all, land, our citizens will be able to return to the territory of our state."
To the question on what should Ukrainians do if they don't make it back to Ukraine until March 17, Razumkov noted: "I think that air transportation is not the only one available, and I think that there will be other mechanisms for the return of our citizens."
"However, citizens of Ukraine will not be able to cross out of Ukraine," added Razumkov.In particular, Parliament Speaker explained that "motor transport is a way of returning to the territory of our state."
Read alsoUkraine reports first coronavirus death
He also added: "In fact, we are not closing air passenger traffic, we are closing [border] checkpoints."


unian--2020-03-13--Ukrainian border closure over coronavirus exempts cargo shipments

International cargo transportation is not being suspended , the infrastructure ministry assures .
The decision of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine ( NSDC ) to shut down Ukraine 's borders to foreign nationals for a period of two weeks in an effort to curb the spread of the coronavirus will not affect cargo shipments .
That 's according to the Ministry of Infrastructure of Ukraine .
`` In line with the decision of the National Security and Defense Council , in 48 hours Ukraine will close its border for foreign citizens , for two weeks .
Citizens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return to Ukraine , '' the press service recalled .
Read alsoKyiv authorities mulling over halt of flights with countries suffering coronavirus spread '' The established restrictions do not apply to international cargo transportation , '' the statement adds .
`` International cargo transportation is not being suspended , '' the ministry says .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council ( NSDC ) of Ukraine Oleksiy Danilov has said Ukraine will close the border for foreigners in 48 hours for two weeks over the global situation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Ukraine has reported three confirmed cases of coronavirus in its territory , including one lethal case .

Ukrainian border closure over coronavirus exempts cargo shipments
20:15, 13.03.20 4192
International cargo transportation is not being suspended, the infrastructure ministry assures.
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unian--2020-03-13--Pro-president's party members appeal to Zelensky over principled positions in talks with Russia

Several MPs urge the president to prevent legitimization of unrecognized pseudo-authorities in Donbas as a party to the conflict in Donbas .
A number of Ukrainian legislators with the leading Servant of the People Party have appealed to President Volodymyr Zelensky over the need to observe principled positions in negotiations with the Russian Federation .
The text of their joint statement was posted on Facebook by several MPs , including Oleksandr Tkachenko , Bohdan Yaremenko , Yehor Chernev , Mykyta Poturayev , Geo Leros , Dmytro Natalukha , Vitaly Bezgin , Anastasia Krasnoselska , Viktoria Podgorna , Anna Bondar , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vasyliv , and others .
`` We share concerns of the public about the ongoing statements by various officials regarding the possibility of resuming water supplies to the occupied Autonomous Republic of Crimea ; unacceptable statements claiming it 's an internal conflict we have in eastern Ukraine , etc , '' the statement reads .
`` We can not but notice the decision approved by Ukraine 's representatives within the framework of the Trilateral Contact Group to create an Advisory Council within the political subgroup of the Trilateral Contact Group , '' deputies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the newly created Advisory Council will include on an equal footing as parties to the consultations representatives of Ukraine and certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine .
`` According to Ukrainian legislation , it 's the occupation authorities of the Russian Federation that are operating in the temporarily occupied territory of Ukraine , having usurped power there , '' deputies say .
`` Consequently , Ukrainian legislation makes it impossible to recognize in any form any authority of the so-called 'LPR ' , 'DPR ' , 'ORDLO [ occupied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ' , etc .
All negotiations regarding the protection of rights and interests of citizens of Ukraine , as well as regarding the cessation of armed aggression , must be conducted exclusively with the Russian Federation and its representatives , '' the statement says .
`` The legitimacy of representatives of the so-called ORDLO can be recognized only if they have been appointed official representatives or official authorities of our state , '' MPs stress .
In this regard , deputies with the Servant of the People Party appealed to President of Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine 's representatives to the Trilateral Contact Group and all negotiators representing Ukraine `` to return to the framework of Ukrainian legislation and not allow the implementation of the announced decisions regarding the creation of the Consultative Group in the manner and forms that find no support among the Ukrainian people , contradict the existing legislation and national interests . ''
`` We also urge President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky to oblige the Ukrainian delegation to hold consultations on a regular basis and brief the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine on approaches and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
According to the Apostrophe outlet , shortly after MPs started posting the text of their joint statement on their Facebook pages , they were invited for consultations to the President 's Office HQ in Kyiv .
MP Mykyta Poturayev in a comment to Apostrophe said : `` We are now entering the Presidential Office for consultations .
Sorry , I ca n't talk . ''
As UNIAN reported earlier , at a meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group with the participation of Presidential Office Chief Andriy Yermak and deputy head of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was decided to set up an Advisory Council on political issues as part of the Group .

Several MPs urge the president to prevent legitimization of unrecognized pseudo-authorities in Donbas as a party to the conflict in Donbas.
A number of Ukrainian legislators with the leading Servant of the People Party have appealed to President Volodymyr Zelensky over the need to observe principled positions in negotiations with the Russian Federation.
The text of their joint statement was posted on Facebook by several MPs, including Oleksandr Tkachenko, Bohdan Yaremenko, Yehor Chernev, Mykyta Poturayev, Geo Leros, Dmytro Natalukha, Vitaly Bezgin, Anastasia Krasnoselska, Viktoria Podgorna, Anna Bondar, Andriy Motovilovets, Dmytro Hurin, Ihor Vasyliv, and others.
"We share concerns of the public about the ongoing statements by various officials regarding the possibility of resuming water supplies to the occupied Autonomous Republic of Crimea; unacceptable statements claiming it's an internal conflict we have in eastern Ukraine, etc," the statement reads.
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"We cannot but notice the decision approved by Ukraine's representatives within the framework of the Trilateral Contact Group to create an Advisory Council within the political subgroup of the Trilateral Contact Group," deputies say, noting that it is alarming that the newly created Advisory Council will include on an equal footing as parties to the consultations representatives of Ukraine and certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine.
"According to Ukrainian legislation, it's the occupation authorities of the Russian Federation that are operating in the temporarily occupied territory of Ukraine, having usurped power there," deputies say. "Consequently, Ukrainian legislation makes it impossible to recognize in any form any authority of the so-called 'LPR', 'DPR', 'ORDLO [occupied areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions]', etc. All negotiations regarding the protection of rights and interests of citizens of Ukraine, as well as regarding the cessation of armed aggression, must be conducted exclusively with the Russian Federation and its representatives," the statement says.
Read alsoMedia publish document signed in Minsk on March 11
"The legitimacy of representatives of the so-called ORDLO can be recognized only if they have been appointed official representatives or official authorities of our state," MPs stress.
In this regard, deputies with the Servant of the People Party appealed to President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky regarding the need to instruct Ukraine's representatives to the Trilateral Contact Group and all negotiators representing Ukraine "to return to the framework of Ukrainian legislation and not allow the implementation of the announced decisions regarding the creation of the Consultative Group in the manner and forms that find no support among the Ukrainian people, contradict the existing legislation and national interests."
"We also urge President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky to oblige the Ukrainian delegation to hold consultations on a regular basis and brief the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine on approaches and the progress in negotiations," the statement said.
According to the Apostrophe outlet, shortly after MPs started posting the text of their joint statement on their Facebook pages, they were invited for consultations to the President's Office HQ in Kyiv.
MP Mykyta Poturayev in a comment to Apostrophe said: "We are now entering the Presidential Office for consultations. Sorry, I can't talk."
As UNIAN reported earlier, at a meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group with the participation of Presidential Office Chief Andriy Yermak and deputy head of Putin's administration Dmitry Kozak, it was decided to set up an Advisory Council on political issues as part of the Group.


unian--2020-03-13--Why "Reconciliation Platform" for Donbas was doomed to fail

Society is not ready for projects such as the National Reconciliation Platform .
However , assistant NSDC secretary Serhiy Sivokho 's project launch has been thwarted not because the initiative is bad as such .
Here 's why it failed .
First : the `` Platform '' presented by Serhiy Sivokho is a social tool for Donbas reintegration : `` first we return our people , then territories '' .
But will people go for dialogue if security issues have n't been resolved in Donbas ?
This is the same as holding elections at gunpoint of armed militants , supported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was there enough time to communicate the very idea of a `` platform '' in Ukraine ?
The idea is worth a nationwide discussion , so some backstage or office meetings are not enough .
Third : the `` active minority '' effect has worked again .
In general , this proven method works very well .
And its success lays in the fact that the `` majority '' ( the one that supports President Zelensky and sees ending the war in Donbas as priority demand to him ) remains passive about Zelensky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be resolved by itself .
The `` minority '' , on the other hand , is more mobile , clearer in its messages , and ready to act and face resistance .
Thus , the `` majority '' seems to be out there , but for some reason they do n't go out on rallies to support the conditional `` Zelensky plan '' or be it the `` Sivokho platform '' .
As a result , the `` active minority '' is more often seen in the media , and it seems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation .
Fourth : there is a feeling that when it comes to the issue of Donbas return , our society is immediately fragmented into small groups divided by interests .
To resolve this problem , authorities need to understand and present a `` state project '' for Donbas .
That is , to try to reconcile the private and the universal , to unite all spheres of society in the pursuit of a common goal , with a common baggage of values clear to every citizen .
After all , for many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Sivokho platform '' is why anyone needs it amid continued enemy shelling… In order for the National Reconciliation Platform to succeed , it must receive an all-Ukrainian legitimacy instead of being agreed in someone 's office .
And it must n't be done in a rush .
All this is a matter of communication quality , through which trust is built .
And it is this communication that allows authorities to play long .
This is exactly what is needed in this situation , as there will be no quick decision on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with KyivStratPro

Society is not ready for projects such as the National Reconciliation Platform. However, assistant NSDC secretary Serhiy Sivokho's project launch has been thwarted not because the initiative is bad as such. Here's why it failed.
First: the "Platform" presented by Serhiy Sivokho is a social tool for Donbas reintegration: "first we return our people, then territories". But will people go for dialogue if security issues haven't been resolved in Donbas? This is the same as holding elections at gunpoint of armed militants, supported by armed Russian mercenaries.
In general, this proven method works very well. And its success lays in the fact that the "majority" remains passive about Zelensky's plan, while waiting for everything to be resolved by itself
Second: was there enough time to communicate the very idea of a "platform" in Ukraine? The idea is worth a nationwide discussion, so some backstage or office meetings are not enough.
Third: the "active minority" effect has worked again. In general, this proven method works very well. And its success lays in the fact that the "majority"(the one that supports President Zelensky and sees ending the war in Donbas as priority demand to him) remains passive about Zelensky's plan, while waiting for everything to be resolved by itself. The "minority", on the other hand, is more mobile, clearer in its messages, and ready to act and face resistance.
Thus, the "majority" seems to be out there, but for some reason they don't go out on rallies to support the conditional "Zelensky plan" or be it the "Sivokho platform". As a result, the "active minority" is more often seen in the media, and it seems that it's in control of the situation.
In order for the National Reconciliation Platform to succeed, it must receive an all-Ukrainian legitimacy instead of being agreed in someone's office
Fourth: there is a feeling that when it comes to the issue of Donbas return, our society is immediately fragmented into small groups divided by interests. To resolve this problem, authorities need to understand and present a "state project" for Donbas. That is, to try to reconcile the private and the universal, to unite all spheres of society in the pursuit of a common goal, with a common baggage of values clear to every citizen. After all, for many Ukrainians, don't understand what the "Sivokho platform" is why anyone needs it amid continued enemy shelling…
In order for the National Reconciliation Platform to succeed, it must receive an all-Ukrainian legitimacy instead of being agreed in someone's office. And it mustn't be done in a rush. All this is a matter of communication quality, through which trust is built. And it is this communication that allows authorities to play long. This is exactly what is needed in this situation, as there will be no quick decision on Donbas.
Taras Semeniuk is an analyst with KyivStratPro


unian--2020-03-13--Ukraine authorities urge citizens to limit travel across country

Earlier , citizens were recommended to limit movement while abroad .
Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council Oleksiy Danilov is urging Ukrainians to limit their trips across the country over the situation with the Covid-19 coronavirus .
The statement came during a Kyiv briefing following an NSDC meeting on Friday , an UNIAN correspondent reports .
`` We have a big request : to limit travel within the country , to limit as much as possible any movement while abroad , in order to protect ourselves from the disease that is raging across the world , '' Danilov @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for foreigners in 48 hours for two weeks UNIAN memo .
In late December , Chinese authorities reported an outbreak of pneumonia of unknown origin in the city of Wuhan .
The causative agent of the disease was a new type of coronavirus , Covid-19 .
The virus is transmitted from person to person , the incubation period is about two weeks .
In Ukraine , to date , three lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus infection have been recorded , one of them lethal .
As of the morning of March 13 , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were registered across the world , with 4,720 deaths and 68,324 recoveries .

Earlier, citizens were recommended to limit movement while abroad.
Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council Oleksiy Danilov is urging Ukrainians to limit their trips across the country over the situation with the Covid-19 coronavirus.
The statement came during a Kyiv briefing following an NSDC meeting on Friday, an UNIAN correspondent reports.
"We have a big request: to limit travel within the country, to limit as much as possible any movement while abroad, in order to protect ourselves from the disease that is raging across the world," Danilov said.
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Read alsoUkraine to close border for foreigners in 48 hours for two weeks
UNIAN memo. In late December, Chinese authorities reported an outbreak of pneumonia of unknown origin in the city of Wuhan. The causative agent of the disease was a new type of coronavirus, Covid-19.
The virus is transmitted from person to person, the incubation period is about two weeks.
In Ukraine, to date, three lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus infection have been recorded, one of them lethal.
As of the morning of March 13, a total of 128,343 cases of coronavirus infection were registered across the world, with 4,720 deaths and 68,324 recoveries.


unian--2020-03-13--Kyiv authorities mulling over halt of flights with countries suffering coronavirus spread

The authorities are doing their utmost to prevent the spread of the disease in Kyiv and across Ukraine .
Kyiv @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine 's Infrastructure Ministry and the management of Boryspil International Airport to halt flights between @ @ @ @ @ significant coronavirus spread .
`` We are doing our utmost to prevent the spread of @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine .
Airports are the gateway to our country and one of the first filters @ @ @ @ @ of ] infected people .
The termination of flights with countries where the epidemic is @ @ @ @ @ minimize the likelihood of a coronavirus outbreak both in Kyiv and across the country , @ @ @ @ @ on March 13 .
The official said he had addressed the Infrastructure Ministry and the @ @ @ @ @ with relevant request .
As UNIAN reported earlier , on March 11 , Klitschko announced @ @ @ @ @ educational process would be temporarily limited in Kyiv from March 12 to prevent the spread @ @ @

The authorities are doing their utmost to prevent the spread of the disease in Kyiv and across Ukraine.
Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko has asked Ukraine's Infrastructure Ministry and the management of Boryspil International Airport to halt flights between Ukraine and countries with a significant coronavirus spread.
Read alsoUkraine's Cabinet decides to close several border crossing points
"We are doing our utmost to prevent the spread of the disease in Kyiv and Ukraine. Airports are the gateway to our country and one of the first filters to prevent [the entry of] infected people. The termination of flights with countries where the epidemic is spreading today is required to minimize the likelihood of a coronavirus outbreak both in Kyiv and across the country," he wrote on Facebook on March 13.
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The official said he had addressed the Infrastructure Ministry and the management of Boryspil International Airport with relevant request.
As UNIAN reported earlier, on March 11, Klitschko announced that mass events and the educational process would be temporarily limited in Kyiv from March 12 to prevent the spread of coronavirus.


unian--2020-03-13--Ukraine reports first coronavirus death

Ukraine reports first coronavirus death

The victim 's close relatives with whom she lived , as well as persons with whom she contacted are under the supervision of doctors .
Ukraine 's Health Ministry says a 71-year-old woman hospitalized with the novel coronavirus in the town of Radomyshl in Zhytomyr region has died today , March 13 .
Read alsoUkraine to close border for foreigners in 48 hours for two weeks '' A 71-year-old woman from Zhytomyr region , who was hospitalized with a laboratory-confirmed case of COVID-19 on March 12 , has died today .
The Ministry of Health of Ukraine expresses condolences to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ press service wrote on its Telegram channel on Friday .
The victim 's close relatives with whom she lived , as well as persons with whom she contacted are under the supervision of doctors .
The ministry added the woman was at risk since , according to the global trend , old people are most vulnerable to COVID-19 infection .
As UNIAN reported earlier , two new cases of Covid-19 coronavirus were confirmed in Ukraine on March 12 .
Cases of coronavirus infection were recorded in a woman of retirement age from Zhytomyr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , whose wife had been in Italy for the past 14 days .
The first case of Covid-19 coronavirus was confirmed in Ukraine on March 3 .

The victim's close relatives with whom she lived, as well as persons with whom she contacted are under the supervision of doctors.
Ukraine's Health Ministry says a 71-year-old woman hospitalized with the novel coronavirus in the town of Radomyshl in Zhytomyr region has died today, March 13.
Read alsoUkraine to close border for foreigners in 48 hours for two weeks
"A 71-year-old woman from Zhytomyr region, who was hospitalized with a laboratory-confirmed case of COVID-19 on March 12, has died today. The Ministry of Health of Ukraine expresses condolences to her family," the ministry's press service wrote on its Telegram channel on Friday.
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The victim's close relatives with whom she lived, as well as persons with whom she contacted are under the supervision of doctors.
The ministry added the woman was at risk since, according to the global trend, old people are most vulnerable to COVID-19 infection.
As UNIAN reported earlier, two new cases of Covid-19 coronavirus were confirmed in Ukraine on March 12. Cases of coronavirus infection were recorded in a woman of retirement age from Zhytomyr region and a man from Chernivtsi region, whose wife had been in Italy for the past 14 days.
The first case of Covid-19 coronavirus was confirmed in Ukraine on March 3.


unian--2020-03-13--Ukraine to close border for foreigners in 48 hours for two weeks

Depending on how the situation develops , the NSDC will make further decisions .
Secretary of the National Security and @ @ @ @ @ of Ukraine Oleksiy Danilov has said Ukraine will close the border for foreigners in 48 @ @ @ @ @ the situation with the novel coronavirus in the world .
`` In 48 hours , @ @ @ @ @ border for foreign citizens .
The Foreign Ministry will notify all institutions , all countries @ @ @ @ @ foreign citizens will be closed for two weeks , '' he told a briefing during @ @ @ @ @ , according to an UNIAN correspondent .
`` In two weeks , depending on how @ @ @ @ @ will make further decisions at the NSDC meeting , '' Danilov added .

Depending on how the situation develops, the NSDC will make further decisions.
Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) of Ukraine Oleksiy Danilov has said Ukraine will close the border for foreigners in 48 hours for two weeks over the situation with the novel coronavirus in the world.
Read alsoUkraine's Cabinet decides to close several border crossing points
"In 48 hours, our country will close the border for foreign citizens. The Foreign Ministry will notify all institutions, all countries that the Ukrainian border for foreign citizens will be closed for two weeks," he told a briefing during the NSDC meeting's break, according to an UNIAN correspondent.
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"In two weeks, depending on how the situation develops, we will make further decisions at the NSDC meeting," Danilov added.


unian--2020-03-13--Ukraine's Cabinet liquidates SACI, launches urban development reform

Three public services will be created instead of the SACI .
The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has liquidated the State Architectural and Construction Inspection ( SACI ) and launched an urban development reform .
Read alsoUkraine 's government allocates US $ 3 bln for repairs , construction of roads in 2020 The relevant decisions were made at an external government meeting on March 13 , an UNIAN correspondent reports .
`` This [ the SACI ] is a corruption 'tick , ' '' Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said , commenting on the Cabinet 's move .
According to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be created instead of the SACI : the State Urban Development Service , which will serve as the registry ; the State Agency for Technical Regulation ( parameters , State Building Codes/SBC , and Eurocodes ) , as well as the State Urban Development Inspectorate , which will supervise construction projects .
The new agencies will start operating in full by late September 2020 .
According to Shmyhal , following the Cabinet 's decision , it is required to amend the legislation and develop a system to transfer the operation of new structures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was also planned to launch an electronic developer 's office for facilities with CC2 and CC3 consequences classes .
In addition , the development of a new facility-oriented building activity registry has started .
As UNIAN reported , Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Prime Minister Shmyhal earlier announced the need to eliminate the SACI .

Ukraine's Cabinet liquidates SACI, launches urban development reform
15:51, 13.03.20 3382
Three public services will be created instead of the SACI.
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unian--2020-03-13--EU prolongs Russia sanctions for another six months – journalist

Brussels-based RFE/RL journalist Rikard Jozwiak says the European Union prolonged sanctions against Russia for the undermining of Ukraine 's territorial @ @ @ @ @ .
Read alsoEU 's decision to lift sanctions against former Ukraine officials Azarov , Stavytskiy @ @ @ @ @ visa bans & asset freezes against 175 separatists and Russians + 44 entities responsible for @ @ @ @ @ territorial integrity has now officially been prolonged by 6 months , '' he wrote on @ @ @ @ @ 2020 .
As UNIAN reported earlier , on December 19 , 2019 , the EU @ @ @ @ @ targeting specific sectors of the Russian economy until July 31 , 2020 .

Sanctions include visa bans and asset freezes.
Brussels-based RFE/RL journalist Rikard Jozwiak says the European Union prolonged sanctions against Russia for the undermining of Ukraine's territorial integrity for another six months.
Read alsoEU's decision to lift sanctions against former Ukraine officials Azarov, Stavytskiy comes into force
"The visa bans & asset freezes against 175 separatists and Russians + 44 entities responsible for the undermining of Ukraine's territorial integrity has now officially been prolonged by 6 months," he wrote on Twitter on March 13, 2020.
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As UNIAN reported earlier, on December 19, 2019, the EU Council prolonged the economic sanctions targeting specific sectors of the Russian economy until July 31, 2020.


unian--2020-03-13--Ukraine starts pumping gas into underground storage facilities on March 11

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Ukraine starts pumping gas into underground storage facilities on March 11
15:08, 13.03.20 1488
Gas reserves in the country's underground storage facilities stood at 15.8 bcm as of March 11, 2020.
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unian--2020-03-13--Media publish document signed in Minsk on March 11

Experts say both representatives of Ukraine , France , Germany , and the occupiers will sit at the negotiating table , in particular , at the Advisory Board .
The Political Advisory Board as part of the Trilateral Contact Group ( TCG ) , the creation of which was approved during the meeting in Minsk on March 11 , provides for subjectivity of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions , and Russia acquires the status of a guarantor along with Germany , France and the OSCE .
Read alsoZelensky : Ukraine seeks release of 200 detainees , sends list @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been published by Ukraine 's weekly newspaper Zerkalo Nedeli ( Mirror Weekly ) .
The TCG 's decision on the establishment of an Advisory Board will be signed on March 25 , 2020 after consultations with representatives of the OSCE , France and Germany .
`` The main task of the Board is to carry out dialogue , consultations and formulate proposals on draft political and legal decisions to resolve the conflict in accordance with the Package of measures , in particular , regarding the conduct of elections in certain areas of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the document .
The criteria and procedure for determining the members of the Board will be determined by Ukraine , Russia , Germany , France and the OSCE .
Experts say both representatives of Ukraine , France , Germany , and the occupiers will sit at the negotiating table , in particular , at the Advisory Board , and Russia will become a mediator , but not a party to the conflict .
In addition , the document only briefly mentions an immediate ceasefire , but the basic wording is `` the need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conflict . ''
As UNIAN reported earlier , the regular meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group ( TCG ) on Peaceful Settlement of the situation in Donbas was held in Minsk on March 11 , during which Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak and Deputy Head of the Administration of the President of the Russian Federation Dmitry Kozak agreed to simultaneously open the checkpoints in the towns of Zolote and Schastia .
The sides also reached an agreement on the exchange of detained persons , the disengagement of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the establishment of the Advisory Board .

Experts say both representatives of Ukraine, France, Germany, and the occupiers will sit at the negotiating table, in particular, at the Advisory Board.
The Political Advisory Board as part of the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG), the creation of which was approved during the meeting in Minsk on March 11, provides for subjectivity of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, and Russia acquires the status of a guarantor along with Germany, France and the OSCE.
Read alsoZelensky: Ukraine seeks release of 200 detainees, sends list to TCG in Minsk
The relevant document has been published by Ukraine's weekly newspaper Zerkalo Nedeli (Mirror Weekly).
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The TCG's decision on the establishment of an Advisory Board will be signed on March 25, 2020 after consultations with representatives of the OSCE, France and Germany.
"The main task of the Board is to carry out dialogue, consultations and formulate proposals on draft political and legal decisions to resolve the conflict in accordance with the Package of measures, in particular, regarding the conduct of elections in certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions," reads the document.
The criteria and procedure for determining the members of the Board will be determined by Ukraine, Russia, Germany, France and the OSCE.
Experts say both representatives of Ukraine, France, Germany, and the occupiers will sit at the negotiating table, in particular, at the Advisory Board, and Russia will become a mediator, but not a party to the conflict.
In addition, the document only briefly mentions an immediate ceasefire, but the basic wording is "the need for an overall political settlement of the conflict."
As UNIAN reported earlier, the regular meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG) on Peaceful Settlement of the situation in Donbas was held in Minsk on March 11, during which Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak and Deputy Head of the Administration of the President of the Russian Federation Dmitry Kozak agreed to simultaneously open the checkpoints in the towns of Zolote and Schastia.
The sides also reached an agreement on the exchange of detained persons, the disengagement of forces and assets, as well as the establishment of the Advisory Board.


unian--2020-03-13--U.S. dollar suddenly tumbles in Kyiv's exchange booths on March 13

U.S. dollar suddenly tumbles in Kyiv's exchange booths on March 13
14:19, 13.03.20 46810
The euro also lost in value against the hryvnia.
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unian--2020-03-13--Ukraine's Cabinet decides to close several border crossing points

The NSDC will hold a meeting on Friday to consider the issue of closing borders and stopping air traffic with @ @ @ @ @ The Cabinet of Ministers , Ukraine 's government , has adopted a decision on the @ @ @ @ @ pedestrian traffic at some border crossing points .
The relevant motion was submitted by Interior @ @ @ @ @ external extraordinary government meeting on reforming the urban planning system of Ukraine , an UNIAN @ @ @ @ @ hospitalized with coronavirus in Ukraine 's Zhytomyr region in serious condition According to Avakov , @ @ @ @ @ these crossing points , and it is proposed to finalize it after the meeting of @ @ @ @ @ Council ( NSDC ) of Ukraine .
At the same time , entry will be @ @ @ @ @ and those who have a residence permit .
Earlier , Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said @ @ @ @ @ meeting on Friday to consider the issue of closing borders and stopping air traffic with @ @ @ @ @

The NSDC will hold a meeting on Friday to consider the issue of closing borders and stopping air traffic with a number of countries.
The Cabinet of Ministers, Ukraine's government, has adopted a decision on the temporary closure and termination of pedestrian traffic at some border crossing points.
The relevant motion was submitted by Interior Minister Arsen Avakov during an external extraordinary government meeting on reforming the urban planning system of Ukraine, an UNIAN correspondent reports.
Read alsoWoman hospitalized with coronavirus in Ukraine's Zhytomyr region in serious condition
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According to Avakov, there is a list of these crossing points, and it is proposed to finalize it after the meeting of the National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) of Ukraine.
At the same time, entry will be allowed for citizens of Ukraine and those who have a residence permit.
Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the NSDC would hold a meeting on Friday to consider the issue of closing borders and stopping air traffic with a number of countries.


unian--2020-03-13--Deposit Guarantee Fund: Bakhmatyuk's offer to pay off VAB Bank's debts beneficial to Ukraine, backed

Deposit Guarantee Fund: Bakhmatyuk's offer to pay off VAB Bank's debts beneficial to Ukraine, backed by IMF

Svitlana Rekrut , Managing Director of the Individual Deposit Guarantee Fund , has said Oleg Bakhmatyuk 's offer to pay off VAB Bank 's debts to the state is most beneficial to the budget .
Such a peaceful settlement of the issue is backed by international financial institutions and will be a priority for the Deposit Guarantee Fund this year , according to the Ukrainian News media outlet .
In an interview with the Novoe Vremya online publication , when asked about the situation with the peaceful settlement of issues and the proposals by Oleg Bakhmatyuk , Rekrut said that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our priorities for this year .
We have been walking the path of war for several years .
It is long , expensive , and not always successful . ''
Rekrut said there was the will of the Deposit Guarantee Fund to take on the practical implementation of this project .
`` Bakhmatyuk was the first to formally express a desire to follow such a scenario .
What is his motivation ?
He needs to run and develop his business , and move on , which is very difficult in circumstances where there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and he and several members of his team have been notified of suspicion .
We need him to return the money to the state and creditors .
And the business itself is the source of the money brought back .
Therefore , it seems to me that it is very important for Ukraine now to take advantage of this synergy and try to follow this path , '' she said .
According to Rekrut , the Fund has discussed and finds support from the International Monetary Fund ( IMF ) regarding the need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` a completely understandable and correct way to replenish the state budget . ''
The settlement mechanism , which is stipulated in relevant Bill No .
2571 , has been agreed with the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank .
As reported earlier , Oleg Bakhmatyuk is the only former shareholder of banks withdrawn from the market as a result of the banking crisis that began in 2014 who advocates the payment of UAH 8 billion ( US $ 309.3 million ) of debt to the state through restructuring mechanisms .

Svitlana Rekrut, Managing Director of the Individual Deposit Guarantee Fund, has said Oleg Bakhmatyuk's offer to pay off VAB Bank's debts to the state is most beneficial to the budget. Such a peaceful settlement of the issue is backed by international financial institutions and will be a priority for the Deposit Guarantee Fund this year, according to the Ukrainian News media outlet.
In an interview with the Novoe Vremya online publication, when asked about the situation with the peaceful settlement of issues and the proposals by Oleg Bakhmatyuk, Rekrut said that "a peaceful settlement is one of our priorities for this year. We have been walking the path of war for several years. It is long, expensive, and not always successful." Rekrut said there was the will of the Deposit Guarantee Fund to take on the practical implementation of this project.
Read alsoDeposit Guarantee Fund and Bakhmatyuk renew talks on debt restructuring
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"Bakhmatyuk was the first to formally express a desire to follow such a scenario. What is his motivation? He needs to run and develop his business, and move on, which is very difficult in circumstances where there is a number of criminal proceedings, and he and several members of his team have been notified of suspicion. We need him to return the money to the state and creditors. And the business itself is the source of the money brought back. Therefore, it seems to me that it is very important for Ukraine now to take advantage of this synergy and try to follow this path," she said.
According to Rekrut, the Fund has discussed and finds support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding the need to conduct this work since it is "a completely understandable and correct way to replenish the state budget." The settlement mechanism, which is stipulated in relevant Bill No. 2571, has been agreed with the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.
As reported earlier, Oleg Bakhmatyuk is the only former shareholder of banks withdrawn from the market as a result of the banking crisis that began in 2014 who advocates the payment of UAH 8 billion (US$309.3 million) of debt to the state through restructuring mechanisms.


unian--2020-03-14--Ukraine's gas imports reach 1.4 bcm in Jan-Feb 2020

As of March 11 , 2020 , all imported volumes of natural gas come exclusively from EU countries .
Ukraine 's gas imports reached 1 438 billion cubic meters ( bcm ) in January-February 2020 and that is 57 % more than the same period last year but , on the other hand , 19 % less than the average in 2016-2019 .
According to the operational data of LLC Gas TSO of Ukraine , 981 million cubic meters were imported to Ukraine in February 2020 .
This is 47 % more than in February 2019 , reads the report @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , imports from Slovakia were about 987 million cubic meters ( + 59 % compared to the same period last year ) , from Hungary – 229 million cubic meters ( + 41 % ) , from Poland – 222 million cubic meters ( + 140 % ) .
It should be noted that import volumes from Poland also include a virtual reverse of 178 million cubic meters .
As of March 11 , 2020 , all imported volumes of natural gas come exclusively from EU countries .
Since November 2015 , Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russian Federation .

As of March 11, 2020, all imported volumes of natural gas come exclusively from EU countries.
Ukraine's gas imports reached 1 438 billion cubic meters (bcm) in January-February 2020 and that is 57% more than the same period last year but, on the other hand, 19% less than the average in 2016-2019.
According to the operational data of LLC Gas TSO of Ukraine, 981 million cubic meters were imported to Ukraine in February 2020. This is 47% more than in February 2019, reads the report.
Read alsoUkraine starts pumping gas into underground storage facilities on March 11
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In particular, in January-February 2020, imports from Slovakia were about 987 million cubic meters (+ 59% compared to the same period last year), from Hungary – 229 million cubic meters (+ 41%), from Poland – 222 million cubic meters (+ 140%). It should be noted that import volumes from Poland also include a virtual reverse of 178 million cubic meters.
As of March 11, 2020, all imported volumes of natural gas come exclusively from EU countries. Since November 2015, Ukraine has not been importing gas from the Russian Federation.


unian--2020-03-14--Number of deaths from novel coronavirus rises to 5,429

The number of deaths from the novel coronavirus originating from China 's Wuhan has risen to 5,429 .
As of @ @ @ @ @ 145,374 cases in total confirmed globally , according to the Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases dashboard @ @ @ @ @ Hopkins University .
As of Saturday morning , there were 80,973 cases confirmed in China @ @ @ @ @ 11,364 in Iran , 8,086 in South Korea , 5,232 in Spain , 3,675 in @ @ @ @ @ , 2,174 in the United States , 1,139 in Switzerland , etc .
UNIAN memo @ @ @ @ @ an outbreak of pneumonia of unknown origin in Wuhan late in December 2019 .
The @ @ @ @ @ was a new type of coronavirus , COVID-19 .
The virus is transmitted from person @ @ @ @ @ incubation period lasting at least two weeks .
On January 30 , the World Health @ @ @ @ @ over the spread of the novel coronavirus from China .

Some 71,694 people have recovered.
The number of deaths from the novel coronavirus originating from China's Wuhan has risen to 5,429.
As of March 14, there were 145,374 cases in total confirmed globally, according to the Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases dashboard by the CSSE at Johns Hopkins University.
Some 71,694 people have recovered.
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Read alsoCoronavirus update: Ukraine to suspend all air travel March 17
As of Saturday morning, there were 80,973 cases confirmed in China, 17,660 in Italy, 11,364 in Iran, 8,086 in South Korea, 5,232 in Spain, 3,675 in Germany, 3,667 in France, 2,174 in the United States, 1,139 in Switzerland, etc.
UNIAN memo. The Chinese authorities reported an outbreak of pneumonia of unknown origin in Wuhan late in December 2019.
The causative agent of the disease was a new type of coronavirus, COVID-19. The virus is transmitted from person to person, with the incubation period lasting at least two weeks.
On January 30, the World Health Organization declared an international emergency over the spread of the novel coronavirus from China.


unian--2020-03-14--Zelensky addresses Ukrainians, confirms suspension of all air travel from March 17

Zelensky also recommended all citizens to refrain from traveling abroad unless absolutely necessary , especially for travel .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has addressed the Ukrainians and confirmed the suspension of all air travel from March 17 .
`` We are closing the border for foreigners .
Passenger border crossing points will be closed .
Starting from 00:01 on March 16 , 2020 , foreigners will not be able to enter the territory of Ukraine for two weeks either by plane , train , car or any other means .
Foreigners who are entitled to permanent or temporary residence in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of official international organizations and diplomatic missions , '' he said in an address on measures to counter the spread of coronavirus in Ukraine published by the president 's press service .
`` As for the Ukrainians who are now abroad .
Those who departed from Ukraine by charter flights on a tourist trip will definitely return home according to the schedule .
Concerning other citizens of Ukraine .
Three days later , we will close regular air traffic .
You should return home within this period .
Those who do not have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should contact the Ukrainian consulate .
In cooperation with Ukrainian airlines , they will be returned home by non-scheduled flights , '' the president said .
Zelensky also recommended all citizens to refrain from traveling abroad unless absolutely necessary , especially for travel .

Zelensky also recommended all citizens to refrain from traveling abroad unless absolutely necessary, especially for travel.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has addressed the Ukrainians and confirmed the suspension of all air travel from March 17.
Read alsoCoronavirus update: Ukraine to suspend all air travel March 17
"We are closing the border for foreigners. Passenger border crossing points will be closed. Starting from 00:01 on March 16, 2020, foreigners will not be able to enter the territory of Ukraine for two weeks either by plane, train, car or any other means. Foreigners who are entitled to permanent or temporary residence in Ukraine are exceptions, in particular representatives of official international organizations and diplomatic missions," he said in an address on measures to counter the spread of coronavirus in Ukraine published by the president's press service.
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"As for the Ukrainians who are now abroad. Those who departed from Ukraine by charter flights on a tourist trip will definitely return home according to the schedule. Concerning other citizens of Ukraine. Three days later, we will close regular air traffic. You should return home within this period. Those who do not have time to do so for objective reasons should contact the Ukrainian consulate. In cooperation with Ukrainian airlines, they will be returned home by non-scheduled flights," the president said.
Zelensky also recommended all citizens to refrain from traveling abroad unless absolutely necessary, especially for travel.


unian--2020-03-14--One Ukrainian soldier wounded amid six enemy attacks on March 13

The enemy opened fire , employing proscribed 82mm mortars , grenade launchers of various types , heavy machine guns , and small arms .
Russia 's hybrid military forces on March 13 mounted six attacks on Ukrainian Army positions in Donbas , eastern Ukraine , with one Ukrainian soldier reported as wounded in action .
`` The Russian Federation 's armed forces violated the ceasefire six times on March 13 .
One Ukrainian soldier was wounded as a result of enemy shelling , '' the press center of Ukraine 's Joint Forces Operation Headquarters said in an update posted on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ March 14 .
Read alsoRussian snipers deployed in Ukraine 's Donbas to `` pass exams '' aiming at Ukrainian troops The enemy opened fire , employing proscribed 82mm mortars , grenade launchers of various types , heavy machine guns , and small arms .
Under attack came Ukrainian positions near the villages of Lebedynske , Slavne , Novomykhailivka , Orikhove , and Krymske .
In addition , the enemy shelled disengagement site No .
3 , using a hand-held anti-tank grenade launcher and small arms .
The Ukrainian military did not fire back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` Since Saturday midnight , Russia-led forces have attacked Ukrainian positions three times near the villages of Berezove , Novoluhanske , and Shumy , using 120mm and 82mm mortars , grenade launchers of various types , heavy machine guns , and rifles , '' the update said .
No casualties were reported among Ukrainian troops Saturday morning .

The enemy opened fire, employing proscribed 82mm mortars, grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and small arms.
Russia's hybrid military forces on March 13 mounted six attacks on Ukrainian Army positions in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, with one Ukrainian soldier reported as wounded in action.
"The Russian Federation's armed forces violated the ceasefire six times on March 13. One Ukrainian soldier was 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 14.
Read alsoRussian snipers deployed in Ukraine's Donbas to "pass exams" aiming at Ukrainian troops
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The enemy opened fire, employing proscribed 82mm mortars, grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and small arms.
Under attack came Ukrainian positions near the villages of Lebedynske, Slavne, Novomykhailivka, Orikhove, and Krymske.
In addition, the enemy shelled disengagement site No. 3, using a hand-held anti-tank grenade launcher and small arms. The Ukrainian military did not fire back, thus adhering to the ceasefire.
"Since Saturday midnight, Russia-led forces have attacked Ukrainian positions three times near the villages of Berezove, Novoluhanske, and Shumy, using 120mm and 82mm mortars, grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and rifles," the update said.
No casualties were reported among Ukrainian troops Saturday morning.


unian--2020-03-14--RFE/RL: Putin formally signs off on constitutional changes that allow him to extend power

The Kremlin notes that Putin has not said whether or not he will run again in 2024 .
Vladimir Putin has formally signed off on constitutional amendments that would allow the Russian leader to run again for president in 2024 , the Interfax news agency reported on March 14 .
The announcement comes a day after it was reported that all of Russia 's regional parliaments had voted in favor of the measures , RFE/RL wrote .
In January , Putin announced a major shake-up of Russian politics and a constitutional overhaul , which the Kremlin described as a redistribution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But earlier this week , Putin , who has been president or prime minister of Russia for two decades , appeared in the State Duma to back a new amendment that would allow him to ignore a current constitutional ban on him running again in 2024 .
The previous rules forbade him from running for a third consecutive mandate , but that changes with the provisions of the amendments , meaning he can seek a fifth overall presidential term in 2024 , and conceivably a sixth in 2030 .
The Kremlin notes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not he will run again in 2024 .
Other constitutional changes further strengthen the presidency and emphasize the priority of Russian law over international norms – a provision reflecting the Kremlin 's irritation with the European Court of Human Rights and other international bodies that have often issued verdicts against Russia .
The changes also outlaw same-sex marriage and mention `` a belief in God '' as one of Russia 's traditional values .
Both houses of the national parliament have already backed the changes as has every single regional parliament .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of parliament ] has received the results of voting in all 85 regional parliaments , '' said Andrei Klishas , chairman of the council 's committee on constitutional law .
`` They are all positive , '' RIA cited him as saying on March 13 .
The list of 85 regions he referenced includes two which are part of Russian-controlled Crimea , which Moscow forcibly annexed from Ukraine in 2014 .
Russia 's Constitutional Court must now examine the constitutional changes , which are due to be put to a nationwide vote in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the State Duma , Russia 's lower house of parliament , urged its members on March 12 to rally behind Putin against what he said was a foreign campaign to discredit the constitutional reforms .

The Kremlin notes that Putin has not said whether or not he will run again in 2024.
Vladimir Putin has formally signed off on constitutional amendments that would allow the Russian leader to run again for president in 2024, the Interfax news agency reported on March 14.
The announcement comes a day after it was reported that all of Russia's regional parliaments had voted in favor of the measures, RFE/RL wrote.
In January, Putin announced a major shake-up of Russian politics and a constitutional overhaul, which the Kremlin described as a redistribution of power from the presidency to parliament.
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But earlier this week, Putin, who has been president or prime minister of Russia for two decades, appeared in the State Duma to back a new amendment that would allow him to ignore a current constitutional ban on him running again in 2024.
Read also"Successor" plan rejected: why Russia opts for "Putin forever"
The previous rules forbade him from running for a third consecutive mandate, but that changes with the provisions of the amendments, meaning he can seek a fifth overall presidential term in 2024, and conceivably a sixth in 2030.
The Kremlin notes that Putin has not said whether or not he will run again in 2024.
Other constitutional changes further strengthen the presidency and emphasize the priority of Russian law over international norms – a provision reflecting the Kremlin's irritation with the European Court of Human Rights and other international bodies that have often issued verdicts against Russia.
The changes also outlaw same-sex marriage and mention "a belief in God" as one of Russia's traditional values.
Both houses of the national parliament have already backed the changes as has every single regional parliament.
"The Federation Council [the upper house of parliament] has received the results of voting in all 85 regional parliaments," said Andrei Klishas, chairman of the council's committee on constitutional law. "They are all positive," RIA cited him as saying on March 13.
The list of 85 regions he referenced includes two which are part of Russian-controlled Crimea, which Moscow forcibly annexed from Ukraine in 2014.
Russia's Constitutional Court must now examine the constitutional changes, which are due to be put to a nationwide vote in April.
Vyacheslav Volodin, the speaker of the State Duma, Russia's lower house of parliament, urged its members on March 12 to rally behind Putin against what he said was a foreign campaign to discredit the constitutional reforms.


unian--2020-03-14--Ukraine to temporarily close 107 out of 230 border crossing points

The official said checkpoints with a small passenger flow had been determined for the closure .
Head of the State @ @ @ @ @ Serhii Deineko has said Ukraine will temporarily close 107 out of 230 border crossing points @ @ @ @ @ existing border crossing points , 123 remain operational .
Some 107 stop operating until April @ @ @ @ @ a briefing following the government meeting on Saturday , an UNIAN correspondent reports .
The @ @ @ @ @ small passenger flow had been determined for the closure .
Deineko also assured the crossing @ @ @ @ @ to ensure stable border crossing operations .

Ukraine to temporarily close 107 out of 230 border crossing points
21:16, 14.03.20 5963
The official said checkpoints with a small passenger flow had been determined for the closure.
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unian--2020-03-14--Cabinet bans foreigners from entering Ukraine, terminates regular international passenger service ti

Cabinet bans foreigners from entering Ukraine, terminates regular international passenger service till April 3

The decision was adopted taking into account the objections .
The Cabinet of Ministers , Ukraine 's government , temporarily bans foreigners from entering Ukraine and terminates regular international passenger service till April 3 .
`` To ensure the implementation of the NSDC [ National Security and Defense Council ] decisions on counteracting the spread of the novel coronavirus in Ukraine , the Cabinet of Ministers at an extraordinary meeting on March 14 adopted an order to temporarily suspend the crossing of the state border aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19 in the territory of the country , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government portal .
Read alsoZelensky addresses Ukrainians , confirms suspension of all air travel from March 17 ( Video ) The document stipulates for the following : starting from 00:00 March 17 , 2020 , to April 3 , temporarily close border checkpoints for regular international passenger services ( with the exception of a number of categories of citizens ) ; starting from 00:00 March 16 , 2020 , to April 3 , temporarily ban crossing the state border for entry to Ukraine for foreigners and stateless persons ( with the exception of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The document also contains instructions for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to inform the diplomatic corps of foreign states in Ukraine , as well as foreign diplomatic institutions about the mentioned restrictions .
In addition , the government authorized the Deputy Minister of Health , Chief Sanitary and Epidemiological Doctor of Ukraine to exercise certain powers , namely : regarding conducting epidemiological surveillance ( control ) , prevention of the emergence and spread of infectious diseases , localization and elimination of outbreaks and epidemics .
Moreover , it was instructed to designate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Chief State Sanitary Doctors in the regions .
The decision was adopted taking into account the objections .

The decision was adopted taking into account the objections.
The Cabinet of Ministers, Ukraine's government, temporarily bans foreigners from entering Ukraine and terminates regular international passenger service till April 3.
"To ensure the implementation of the NSDC [National Security and Defense Council] decisions on counteracting the spread of the novel coronavirus in Ukraine, the Cabinet of Ministers at an extraordinary meeting on March 14 adopted an order to temporarily suspend the crossing of the state border aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19 in the territory of the country," according to a statement published on the government portal.
Read alsoZelensky addresses Ukrainians, confirms suspension of all air travel from March 17 (Video)
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The document stipulates for the following: starting from 00:00 March 17, 2020, to April 3, temporarily close border checkpoints for regular international passenger services (with the exception of a number of categories of citizens); starting from 00:00 March 16, 2020, to April 3, temporarily ban crossing the state border for entry to Ukraine for foreigners and stateless persons (with the exception of a number of categories of citizens).
The document also contains instructions for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to inform the diplomatic corps of foreign states in Ukraine, as well as foreign diplomatic institutions about the mentioned restrictions.
In addition, the government authorized the Deputy Minister of Health, Chief Sanitary and Epidemiological Doctor of Ukraine to exercise certain powers, namely: regarding conducting epidemiological surveillance (control), prevention of the emergence and spread of infectious diseases, localization and elimination of outbreaks and epidemics. Moreover, it was instructed to designate authorized persons to perform the functions of the Chief State Sanitary Doctors in the regions.
The decision was adopted taking into account the objections.


unian--2020-03-14--ICRC to have access to Ukrainian captives in occupied Donbas to speed up their release – Yermak

According to Yermak , such an agreement was reached at a meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group in Minsk .
Head of the President 's Office of Ukraine Andriy Yermak has said representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross ( ICRC ) will have access to Ukrainian captives illegally held in the territories of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions ( ORDLO ) .
According to Yermak , such an agreement was reached at a meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group ( TCG ) in Minsk , the president 's press service reports .
Read alsoChief of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parties to conflict in TCG format , OSCE between them During a `` Freedom of Speech by Savik Shuster '' panel show on Ukraine TV channel on March 13 , he emphasized that one of the items of the protocol of the last TCG meeting concerned the release of Ukrainian citizens held in the uncontrolled territories .
`` We have agreed in the TCG that the Red Cross will be allowed to the places where our people are located in the uncontrolled territories , '' Yermak said .
According to the official , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Trilateral Contact Group because many of the agreements reached by the presidents during the Normandy Four summit in Paris had not been implemented over three months .
`` So I decided to come personally and check what is going on there , '' Yermak added .

According to Yermak, such an agreement was reached at a meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group in Minsk.
Head of the President's Office of Ukraine Andriy Yermak has said representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) will have access to Ukrainian captives illegally held in the territories of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions (ORDLO).
According to Yermak, such an agreement was reached at a meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG) in Minsk, the president's press service reports.
Read alsoChief of staff Yermak: Ukraine, Russia two parties to conflict in TCG format, OSCE between them
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During a "Freedom of Speech by Savik Shuster" panel show on Ukraine TV channel on March 13, he emphasized that one of the items of the protocol of the last TCG meeting concerned the release of Ukrainian citizens held in the uncontrolled territories.
"We have agreed in the TCG that the Red Cross will be allowed to the places where our people are located in the uncontrolled territories," Yermak said.
According to the official, he decided to attend the meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group because many of the agreements reached by the presidents during the Normandy Four summit in Paris had not been implemented over three months.
"So I decided to come personally and check what is going on there," Yermak added.


unian--2020-03-14--Poland closing borders as coronavirus spreads – media

The country 's borders will stay open to the movement of goods .
Poland has declared a state of `` epidemic emergency '' and will temporarily close its borders to non-citizens from Sunday as it ramps up efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus , the country 's prime minister announced on Friday evening .
Polish citizens returning from abroad will be placed under a 14-day quarantine after crossing the border , while pubs and clubs will be shut , shopping malls will have trade restricted , and public gatherings of more than 50 people will be banned , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ security of the Polish people in mind , we will introduce full controls at all our borders… initially for 10 days , with a possible extension to 20 days and then by another month , '' Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said .
International passenger air and rail connections will be suspended from Sunday .
But charter flights will be allowed in so that Poles abroad can return home , public broadcaster Polish Radio reported .
Foreigners with residence permits in Poland will also be allowed to enter , officials said .
The country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ movement of goods .
Poles heading home from abroad by car will be subjected to strict checks .
`` There will be very rigorous border procedures in order to keep the possibility of a person ill with the coronavirus appearing [ here ] to an absolute minimum , '' Morawiecki said .
In another move to contain the spread of the virus , the government has decided to limit the operations of shopping malls and close all pubs , clubs and casinos , Morawiecki also said .
Restaurants and bars will only be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Radio reported .
Public gatherings of more than 50 people will be banned from Saturday , Morawiecki told a news conference in Warsaw .
Sixty-eight people have tested positive for the coronavirus in Poland , with two deaths from the illness so far .
The first case of coronavirus infection was reported in the country last week .
The government on Wednesday announced that all schools , universities , nurseries , cinemas , theatres and museums would be closed as Poland stepped up efforts to contain the new SARS-CoV-2 virus .

The country's borders will stay open to the movement of goods.
Poland has declared a state of "epidemic emergency" and will temporarily close its borders to non-citizens from Sunday as it ramps up efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus, the country's prime minister announced on Friday evening.
Polish citizens returning from abroad will be placed under a 14-day quarantine after crossing the border, while pubs and clubs will be shut, shopping malls will have trade restricted, and public gatherings of more than 50 people will be banned, Radio Poland wrote.
"With the security of the Polish people in mind, we will introduce full controls at all our borders… initially for 10 days, with a possible extension to 20 days and then by another month," Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said.
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International passenger air and rail connections will be suspended from Sunday.
Read alsoCoronavirus update: Ukraine to suspend all air travel March 17
But charter flights will be allowed in so that Poles abroad can return home, public broadcaster Polish Radio reported.
Foreigners with residence permits in Poland will also be allowed to enter, officials said.
The country's borders will stay open to the movement of goods. Poles heading home from abroad by car will be subjected to strict checks.
"There will be very rigorous border procedures in order to keep the possibility of a person ill with the coronavirus appearing [here] to an absolute minimum," Morawiecki said.
In another move to contain the spread of the virus, the government has decided to limit the operations of shopping malls and close all pubs, clubs and casinos, Morawiecki also said.
Restaurants and bars will only be allowed to deliver take-away food, Polish Radio reported.
Public gatherings of more than 50 people will be banned from Saturday, Morawiecki told a news conference in Warsaw.
Sixty-eight people have tested positive for the coronavirus in Poland, with two deaths from the illness so far.
The first case of coronavirus infection was reported in the country last week.
The government on Wednesday announced that all schools, universities, nurseries, cinemas, theatres and museums would be closed as Poland stepped up efforts to contain the new SARS-CoV-2 virus.


unian--2020-03-14--Ukraine's government decides to immediately evacuate Ukrainians from Italy

The Cabinet of Ministers also discussed the procedure for the evacuation of Ukrainian citizens .
The Cabinet of Ministers , @ @ @ @ @ decided to immediately evacuate Ukrainian citizens from Italy .
`` The government has instructed the @ @ @ @ @ the Ministry of Health , the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Internal @ @ @ @ @ evacuation of Ukrainian citizens from an outbreak area of COVID-19 in the Italian Republic , @ @ @ @ @ portal , following the Cabinet 's extraordinary meeting .
The Cabinet of Ministers also discussed @ @ @ @ @ of Ukrainian citizens .
In particular , the State Customs Service will have to quickly @ @ @ @ @ crew members and passengers of the aircraft , which will carry out the evacuation .
@ @ @ @ @ must ensure priority control while crossing the state border .

The Cabinet of Ministers also discussed the procedure for the evacuation of Ukrainian citizens.
The Cabinet of Ministers, Ukraine's government, has decided to immediately evacuate Ukrainian citizens from Italy.
Read alsoForced isolation and work from home: Ukraine's government drafts "coronavirus" bill
"The government has instructed the Ministry of Infrastructure together with the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Internal Affairs to ensure the immediate evacuation of Ukrainian citizens from an outbreak area of COVID-19 in the Italian Republic," according to the government portal, following the Cabinet's extraordinary meeting.
Видео дня
The Cabinet of Ministers also discussed the procedure for the evacuation of Ukrainian citizens. In particular, the State Customs Service will have to quickly check in the baggage of crew members and passengers of the aircraft, which will carry out the evacuation.
The State Border Guard Service must ensure priority control while crossing the state border.


unian--2020-03-14--Chief of staff Yermak: Ukraine, Russia two parties to conflict in TCG format, OSCE between them

According to Yermak , the establishment of an Advisory Board does not change the Minsk format .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky 's chief of staff Andriy Yermak has said the establishment of an Advisory Board in the political working subgroup of the Trilateral Contact Group ( TCG ) does not change the status of the Russian Federation as a party to the conflict in Donbas .
During a `` Freedom of Speech by Savik Shuster '' panel show on Ukraine TV channel on March 13 , Yermak was asked to comment on the provision of the protocol signed in Minsk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ create an Advisory Board in the TCG political subgroup regarding the procedure for an independent appointment of members of this Board by `` certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine , '' which could lead to the legitimization of armed forces .
Read alsoPro-president 's party members appeal to Zelensky over principled positions in talks with Russia '' Today , the format of the Trilateral Contact Group , where there are two sides to the conflict , namely Ukraine , Russia , and the OSCE between them , has not changed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we have not changed the Minsk format in the political subgroup , '' Yermak added .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the regular meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group ( TCG ) on Peaceful Settlement of the situation in Donbas was held in Minsk on March 11 , during which Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak and Deputy Head of the Administration of the President of the Russian Federation Dmitry Kozak agreed to simultaneously open the checkpoints in the towns of Zolote and Schastia .
The sides @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of detained persons , the disengagement of forces and assets , as well as the establishment of the Advisory Board .
At the same time , Ukraine 's weekly newspaper Zerkalo Nedeli ( Mirror Weekly ) on Friday published the document signed in Minsk .
Experts say both representatives of Ukraine , France , Germany , and the occupiers will sit at the negotiating table , in particular , at the Advisory Board , and Russia will become a mediator , but not a party to the conflict .

According to Yermak, the establishment of an Advisory Board does not change the Minsk format.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's chief of staff Andriy Yermak has said the establishment of an Advisory Board in the political working subgroup of the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG) does not change the status of the Russian Federation as a party to the conflict in Donbas.
During a "Freedom of Speech by Savik Shuster" panel show on Ukraine TV channel on March 13, Yermak was asked to comment on the provision of the protocol signed in Minsk on March 11 on the intention to create an Advisory Board in the TCG political subgroup regarding the procedure for an independent appointment of members of this Board by "certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine," which could lead to the legitimization of armed forces.
Read alsoPro-president's party members appeal to Zelensky over principled positions in talks with Russia
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"Today, the format of the Trilateral Contact Group, where there are two sides to the conflict, namely Ukraine, Russia, and the OSCE between them, has not changed," he said.
"Today, we have not changed the Minsk format in the political subgroup," Yermak added.
As UNIAN reported earlier, the regular meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG) on Peaceful Settlement of the situation in Donbas was held in Minsk on March 11, during which Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak and Deputy Head of the Administration of the President of the Russian Federation Dmitry Kozak agreed to simultaneously open the checkpoints in the towns of Zolote and Schastia.
The sides also reached an agreement on the exchange of detained persons, the disengagement of forces and assets, as well as the establishment of the Advisory Board.
At the same time, Ukraine's weekly newspaper Zerkalo Nedeli (Mirror Weekly) on Friday published the document signed in Minsk. Experts say both representatives of Ukraine, France, Germany, and the occupiers will sit at the negotiating table, in particular, at the Advisory Board, and Russia will become a mediator, but not a party to the conflict.