unian--2020-04-01--NABU illegally gathered compromising material to discredit SAPO, PGO – media

The purported correspondence between subordinates of Artem Sytnyk , Director of the National Anti-corruption Bureau of Ukraine ( NABU ) , published by the media testifies to attempts of discrediting other security officials who investigated NABU 's illegal activities .
The copies of corresponding documents were published by the Obozrevatel media outlet .
According to journalists , they confirm that NABU detectives at the direction of their superiors were engaged in gathering incriminating evidence and compiling dossiers on officials of the Prosecutor General 's Office ( PGO ) of Ukraine and Head of the Specialized Anti-corruption Prosecutor 's Office ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Ukrainian News .
`` Following high-profile scandals with illegal wiretapping of SAPO by NABU agents , Artem Sytnyk 's subordinates continued to 'dig dirt ' on Kholodnytsky , trying to find a pretext for discrediting him .
This is evidenced by an internal document drafted by NABU agents for Sytnyk 's First Deputy Gizo Uglava , where NABU detectives reported on their assignment – to come up with a pretext for discrediting the SAPO chief , '' the media outlet reported .
Such pretext could be Kholodnytsky 's contact with Andriy Bohdan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and Bohdan was appointed Head of the President 's Office – so this version became `` inconvenient '' for Sytnyk , who had already started feeling reasonably concerned about his chair , Obozrevatel wrote .
`` In addition to squabbles with SAPO , NABU actively fought with the PGO , namely , Deputy Prosecutor General Yuriy Stolyarchuk and the Department of Investigation of Critical Cases in Economics .
On August 12 , 2016 , officers of this PGO 's department detained two employees of the NABU 's operational-technical unit as the latter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – surveillance of PGO 's officials , '' journalists said .
According to the media outlet , the following documents are ' a 'black list ' of PGO officials with their photographs and a `` list of troubles '' the prosecutors had caused to 'NABU spies ' . ''
The list , journalists say , was received by Gizo Uglava from his subordinates .
`` NABU has already been accused of illegally wiretapping some 140 persons after allegedly receiving a court warrant to wiretap 18 persons .
According to media reports , previously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , compiled dossiers , and sent incriminating material to foreign actors .
Mainly politicians , businessmen and law enforcers were allegedly targeted in such illegal actions , '' the report reads .

The purported correspondence between subordinates of Artem Sytnyk, Director of the National Anti-corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU), published by the media testifies to attempts of discrediting other security officials who investigated NABU's illegal activities.
The copies of corresponding documents were published by the Obozrevatel media outlet. According to journalists, they confirm that NABU detectives at the direction of their superiors were engaged in gathering incriminating evidence and compiling dossiers on officials of the Prosecutor General's Office (PGO) of Ukraine and Head of the Specialized Anti-corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) Nazar Kholodnytsky, as reported by Ukrainian News.
"Following high-profile scandals with illegal wiretapping of SAPO by NABU agents, Artem Sytnyk's subordinates continued to 'dig dirt' on Kholodnytsky, trying to find a pretext for discrediting him. This is evidenced by an internal document drafted by NABU agents for Sytnyk's First Deputy Gizo Uglava, where NABU detectives reported on their assignment – to come up with a pretext for discrediting the SAPO chief," the media outlet reported.
Видео дня
Such pretext could be Kholodnytsky's contact with Andriy Bohdan, but new authorities came in 2019, and Bohdan was appointed Head of the President's Office – so this version became "inconvenient" for Sytnyk, who had already started feeling reasonably concerned about his chair, Obozrevatel wrote.
"In addition to squabbles with SAPO, NABU actively fought with the PGO, namely, Deputy Prosecutor General Yuriy Stolyarchuk and the Department of Investigation of Critical Cases in Economics. On August 12, 2016, officers of this PGO's department detained two employees of the NABU's operational-technical unit as the latter were conducting an 'undercover technical operation' – surveillance of PGO's officials," journalists said.
According to the media outlet, the following documents are 'a 'black list' of PGO officials with their photographs and a "list of troubles" the prosecutors had caused to 'NABU spies'." The list, journalists say, was received by Gizo Uglava from his subordinates.
"NABU has already been accused of illegally wiretapping some 140 persons after allegedly receiving a court warrant to wiretap 18 persons. According to media reports, previously published correspondence also indicates that NABU wiretapped, compiled dossiers, and sent incriminating material to foreign actors. Mainly politicians, businessmen and law enforcers were allegedly targeted in such illegal actions," the report reads.


unian--2020-04-01--Spy channel uncovered between Ukraine's naval officer, Russia's FSB – media

Procedures have begun to strip the officer of access to classified data and strip him of his rank .
Ukraine ’ s Security Service ( SBU ) says it has breached an espionage communication channel between a high-ranking Ukrainian naval officer and staff from Russia 's main spy agency , the FSB , in the Russian-occupied Crimean Peninsula .
Procedures have begun to strip the officer of access to classified data and strip him of his rank , the SBU said in a statement on March 31 , according to RFE/RL .
It did not give the officer 's name @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
According to the statement , the officer maintained his loyalty to Kyiv while he was in service in Crimea when Russia took over the peninsula in 2014 .
It said the officer refused to assist Russian security forces in occupying a naval academy in the port city of Sevastopol .
However , upon being redeployed to mainland Ukraine after the Russian invasion , the officer continued to `` maintain constant contacts with FSB operatives in acting service , '' the SBU said .
Among them were `` former SBU servicemen Andrey Gaponenko @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who flipped to the enemy 's side during the annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea in 2014 . ''
After moving to mainland Ukraine , the officer visited his native Crimea and allegedly had personal meetings with the ex-SBU operatives , according to the statement .
It said the navy officer had `` access to classified information that is of a particularly important nature related to defense . ''
The SBU published a video on social media allegedly showing the man making confessions .

Procedures have begun to strip the officer of access to classified data and strip him of his rank.
Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) says it has breached an espionage communication channel between a high-ranking Ukrainian naval officer and staff from Russia's main spy agency, the FSB, in the Russian-occupied Crimean Peninsula.
Procedures have begun to strip the officer of access to classified data and strip him of his rank, the SBU said in a statement on March 31, according to RFE/RL.
It did not give the officer's name, former rank, or current status.
Видео дня
According to the statement, the officer maintained his loyalty to Kyiv while he was in service in Crimea when Russia took over the peninsula in 2014. It said the officer refused to assist Russian security forces in occupying a naval academy in the port city of Sevastopol.
Read alsoUkraine security officials nab online troll spinning fake news on coronavirus
However, upon being redeployed to mainland Ukraine after the Russian invasion, the officer continued to "maintain constant contacts with FSB operatives in acting service," the SBU said.
Among them were "former SBU servicemen Andrey Gaponenko, Petro Zima, Dmitry Pylypchenko, who flipped to the enemy's side during the annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea in 2014."
After moving to mainland Ukraine, the officer visited his native Crimea and allegedly had personal meetings with the ex-SBU operatives, according to the statement.
It said the navy officer had "access to classified information that is of a particularly important nature related to defense."
The SBU published a video on social media allegedly showing the man making confessions.


unian--2020-04-02--Ukraine's Defense Ministry appeals to citizens to join fight against coronavirus

The Army has extensive experience in cooperation with reserve troops , volunteers , and ordinary citizens in repelling Russian aggression in the east of Ukraine .
Ukraine 's Defense Ministry has called on citizens to take part , jointly with the Armed Forces of Ukraine , in the ongoing fight against coronavirus .
`` Faced with the need to confront the large-scale challenges of the global coronavirus pandemic and the prevention of the disease spread in Ukraine , the Defense Ministry addresses reservists , volunteers , other concerned citizens who have relevant experience in health care , as well as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are in extramural studies , and fifth-six year students , to join efforts to help patients with confirmed/suspected coronavirus cases , '' the ministry 's press service said on March 24 .
It is noted that the Army has the most extensive and effective experience in cooperation with reserve troops , volunteers , and ordinary citizens when the need for such cooperation was vital to repel Russian aggression in eastern Ukraine .
`` Mobilizing not only material resources , but primarily human ones , is currently crucial for the Armed Forces ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have experience in the areas of epidemiology , infectious diseases , anesthesiology , pharmacy , therapy , as well as representatives of other scarce and narrowly specialized medical specialties may contribute to the nationwide measures being taken .
Amid a pandemic , Ukrainian healthcare institutions , as well as the Defense Ministry and the Armed Forces need any feasible help from specialists among junior medical personnel and doctors , '' the press service added .

The Army has extensive experience in cooperation with reserve troops, volunteers, and ordinary citizens in repelling Russian aggression in the east of Ukraine.
Ukraine's Defense Ministry has called on citizens to take part, jointly with the Armed Forces of Ukraine, in the ongoing fight against coronavirus.
"Faced with the need to confront the large-scale challenges of the global coronavirus pandemic and the prevention of the disease spread in Ukraine, the Defense Ministry addresses reservists, volunteers, other concerned citizens who have relevant experience in health care, as well as medical students, in particular, interns who are in extramural studies, and fifth-six year students, to join efforts to help patients with confirmed/suspected coronavirus cases," the ministry's press service said on March 24.
Read alsoUkraine launching production of coronavirus tests
Видео дня
It is noted that the Army has the most extensive and effective experience in cooperation with reserve troops, volunteers, and ordinary citizens when the need for such cooperation was vital to repel Russian aggression in eastern Ukraine.
"Mobilizing not only material resources, but primarily human ones, is currently crucial for the Armed Forces' medical units. All concerned citizens who have experience in the areas of epidemiology, infectious diseases, anesthesiology, pharmacy, therapy, as well as representatives of other scarce and narrowly specialized medical specialties may contribute to the nationwide measures being taken. Amid a pandemic, Ukrainian healthcare institutions, as well as the Defense Ministry and the Armed Forces need any feasible help from specialists among junior medical personnel and doctors," the press service added.


unian--2020-04-02--Gas transit via Ukraine in Jan-March shrinks by 53% to 11.1 bcm

Despite this , since the beginning of 2020 , the capacities for Russian gas transit have been fully paid for by Russia 's Gazprom under a new gas transit deal .
Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine ( GTSOU ) LLC has said the transit of natural gas through the gas transmission system in January-March 2020 shrank by 53 % year-over-year ( y-o-y ) , to 11.1 billion cubic meters ( bcm ) .
In particular , in March alone , gas transit from Russia via Ukraine amounted to 4.6 billion bcm , which was 18 % up from February @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the company said on its website on April 2 .
However , since the beginning of 2020 , the capacities for Russian gas transit have been fully paid by Russia 's Gazprom in accordance with a new gas transit deal , which stipulates payments for gas transit at a rate of 65 bcm per year , or 178 million cubic meters per day .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the transit of natural gas through the Ukrainian gas transmission system increased by 3.2 % to 89.58 bcm in 2019 .
Transit supplies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2018 shrank by 7.1 % against 2017 , to 86.774 bcm .
On December 30 , 2019 , Ukraine and Russia signed a new gas transit contract for a period of five years , obliging Russia 's Gazprom to pump a minimum of 65 billion bcm of gas via Ukraine in the first year and 40 bcm annually in the next four years .
The parties may extend the contract for another ten years .

Gas transit via Ukraine in Jan-March shrinks by 53% to 11.1 bcm
14:40, 02.04.20 1164
Despite this, since the beginning of 2020, the capacities for Russian gas transit have been fully paid for by Russia's Gazprom under a new gas transit deal.
Помогите проекту
Support us


unian--2020-04-02--Ukraine Army reports enemy death toll in Donbas over March

The Joint Forces Operation Headquarters ( JFO HQ ) has disclosed the enemy death toll in Donbas , eastern Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ .
`` According to intelligence data , Russian occupying forces ' casualties totaled 164 in @ @ @ @ @ were killed and 113 were wounded , '' the JFO HQ wrote on Facebook on @ @ @ @ @ `` In addition , the Russian occupying forces lost 10 units of military equipment and @ @ @ @ @ , two infantry fighting vehicles , two multi-purpose light-armored towing vehicles , a UAV , @ @ @ @ @ , '' reads the report .
The Joint Forces continue steadfastly carrying out combat missions @ @ @ @ @ .

Russian occupying forces' casualties in March totaled 164 people.
The Joint Forces Operation Headquarters (JFO HQ) has disclosed the enemy death toll in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, over the past month.
"According to intelligence data, Russian occupying forces' casualties totaled 164 in March, namely: 51 were killed and 113 were wounded," the JFO HQ wrote on Facebook on April 2, 2020.
Read alsoThree Ukrainian soldiers wounded amid 15 enemy attacks on April 1
Видео дня
"In addition, the Russian occupying forces lost 10 units of military equipment and weaponry (a 120mm mortar, two infantry fighting vehicles, two multi-purpose light-armored towing vehicles, a UAV, and four military trucks)," reads the report.
The Joint Forces continue steadfastly carrying out combat missions to protect the Ukrainian people.


unian--2020-04-02--Ukraine launching production of coronavirus tests

Ukraine-made tests will be supplied to laboratories that conduct polymerase chain reaction testing .
Ukraine next week plans to start @ @ @ @ @ , says Deputy Minister of Health Viktor Liashko .
`` We 've been working with @ @ @ @ @ and other national manufacturers of tests , '' Liashko told a Kyiv briefing on Thursday @ @ @ @ @ correspondent .
`` And I think that next week we will see serial production of @ @ @ @ @ deliver domestic tests to the PCR laboratories , '' he said .
As UNIAN reported @ @ @ @ @ as of 10:00 on April 2 , a total of 804 lab-confirmed cases of COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ including 20 deaths and 13 recoveries .

Ukraine-made tests will be supplied to laboratories that conduct polymerase chain reaction testing.
Ukraine next week plans to start mass production of coronavirus tests, says Deputy Minister of Health Viktor Liashko.
"We've been working with the Institute of Molecular Biology and other national manufacturers of tests," Liashko told a Kyiv briefing on Thursday, according to an UNIAN correspondent.
Read alsoZelensky: Over 100 perpetrators spinning coronavirus disinformation exposed
Видео дня
"And I think that next week we will see serial production of tests, and we will deliver domestic tests to the PCR laboratories," he said.
As UNIAN reported earlier, in Ukraine, as of 10:00 on April 2, a total of 804 lab-confirmed cases of COVID-19 were recorded in Ukraine, including 20 deaths and 13 recoveries.


unian--2020-04-02--Ukrainian businessman Kolomoisky wins suit against ex-NBU Governor Gontareva

Ukrainian businessman Ihor Kolomoisky has won a lawsuit vs former Governor of the National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) Valeriya Gontareva on protection of honor , dignit , y and business reputation .
`` The claim of Ihor Valeriovych Kolomoisky against Valeriya Oleksandrivna Gontareva , Kyiv 's Gorshenin Institute Ltd. on the protection of honor , dignity , and business reputation shall be satisfied in full , '' according to the ruling of Kyiv 's Shevchenkivsky District Court of March 30 .
`` Information published on September 18 , 2019 , by lb.ua at https : //lb.ua/news/2019/09/18/ 437580_valeriya_gontareva_vsya_brigada.html in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ titled 'Valeriya Gontareva : 'This whole team , they are n't only bullying me , they are doing so brazenly and harassing me ( ... ) ' shall be recognized unreliable and violating Ihor Valeriovych Kolomoisky 's personal non-property rights ' '' the court said .
The court also ruled to recover in Kolomoisky 's favor court fees in the amount of UAH 2,305.20 ( US $ 83 ) from Gorshenin Institute and Gontareva in equal shares .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Gontareva in the autumn of 2018 left Ukraine and has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ night of September 17 , Gontareva 's house outside Kyiv was set on fire .
She attributed this to two more incidents that had occurred earlier : a road accident in the UK were she was hit by a car and an arson of her daughter-in-law 's car in Kyiv .

Ukrainian businessman Ihor Kolomoisky has won a lawsuit vs former Governor of the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) Valeriya Gontareva on protection of honor, dignit,y and business reputation.
"The claim of Ihor Valeriovych Kolomoisky against Valeriya Oleksandrivna Gontareva, Kyiv's Gorshenin Institute Ltd. on the protection of honor, dignity, and business reputation shall be satisfied in full," according to the ruling of Kyiv's Shevchenkivsky District Court of March 30.
"Information published on September 18, 2019, by lb.ua at https://lb.ua/news/2019/09/18/ 437580_valeriya_gontareva_vsya_brigada.html in an interview with Gontareva, Valeriya Oleksiivna titled 'Valeriya Gontareva: 'This whole team, they aren't only bullying me, they are doing so brazenly and harassing me (...)' shall be recognized unreliable and violating Ihor Valeriovych Kolomoisky's personal non-property rights '" the court said.
Видео дня
The court also ruled to recover in Kolomoisky's favor court fees in the amount of UAH 2,305.20 (US$83) from Gorshenin Institute and Gontareva in equal shares.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Gontareva in the autumn of 2018 left Ukraine and has been living in London. On the night of September 17, Gontareva's house outside Kyiv was set on fire. She attributed this to two more incidents that had occurred earlier: a road accident in the UK were she was hit by a car and an arson of her daughter-in-law's car in Kyiv.


unian--2020-04-02--First coronavirus death reported in Kyiv, over 160 infected

A 70-year-old male patient has died , the report says .
Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko has said 161 people infected with COVID-19 coronavirus were detected in the capital city .
Twelve patients have recovered , while one person has died .
`` The number of Kyiv residents with a confirmed diagnosis of coronavirus is 161 people and , unfortunately , one case is fatal – a 70-year-old man died , '' he said this at an online briefing , an UNIAN correspondent reports .
According to Klitschko , 29 new cases were registered in Kyiv over the past day : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aged 36-62 .
`` Eighteen patients were hospitalized .
Four of them were transferred to clinical hospital No .
5 , and nine people to hospital No .
7 .
Another three patients were transferred to the Oleksandrivska Hospital , and two were admitted to Hospital No .
3 .
Eleven Kyiv patients are being treated at home , on self-isolation , under medical supervision , '' he said .
Klitschko said 12 patients , most of whom had been treated in the Oleksandrivska Hospital , recovered and were discharged .
According to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been tested with the help of rapid tests , 1,202 samples were laboratory-processed and 404 samples are being tested in Kyiv 's City Laboratory Center at the Ministry of Health of Ukraine .
Klitschko reiterated all patients diagnosed with pneumonia were being tested in Kyiv .

A 70-year-old male patient has died, the report says.
Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko has said 161 people infected with COVID-19 coronavirus were detected in the capital city.
Twelve patients have recovered, while one person has died.
"The number of Kyiv residents with a confirmed diagnosis of coronavirus is 161 people and, unfortunately, one case is fatal – a 70-year-old man died," he said this at an online briefing, an UNIAN correspondent reports.
Видео дня
According to Klitschko, 29 new cases were registered in Kyiv over the past day: 19 men aged 22-70 and 10 women aged 36-62.
"Eighteen patients were hospitalized. Four of them were transferred to clinical hospital No. 5, and nine people to hospital No. 7. Another three patients were transferred to the Oleksandrivska Hospital, and two were admitted to Hospital No. 3. Eleven Kyiv patients are being treated at home, on self-isolation, under medical supervision," he said.
Read alsoKyiv Mayor Klitschko tells about penalties for quarantine violators
Klitschko said 12 patients, most of whom had been treated in the Oleksandrivska Hospital, recovered and were discharged.
According to him, almost 2,200 Kyiv residents have been tested with the help of rapid tests, 1,202 samples were laboratory-processed and 404 samples are being tested in Kyiv's City Laboratory Center at the Ministry of Health of Ukraine.
Klitschko reiterated all patients diagnosed with pneumonia were being tested in Kyiv.


unian--2020-04-02--Almost 6,500 Ukrainians cross into Ukraine over past 24 hours

The State Border Guard Service of Ukraine says nearly 6,500 Ukrainians returned to their home country over the past day @ @ @ @ @ of April 2 , there are no queues at checkpoints , border guards said .
@ @ @ @ @ from abroad in the past a day , almost 2,500 arrived without their own transport @ @ @ @ @ by local authorities and the State Emergency Service .
Read alsoNumber of confirmed coronavirus cases @ @ @ @ @ by Thursday morning In addition , over 4,300 people left the country for the same @ @ @ @ @ .
Over the past day , border guards together with representatives of the sanitary-quarantine departments @ @ @ @ @ a medical condition survey of over 8,000 persons .
Following additional medical checkups , no @ @ @ @ @ detected .
All Ukrainians crossing in have signed self-isolation consent papers .
As UNIAN reported @ @ @ @ @ Ukrainian Foreign Ministry , over 144,000 citizens returned to Ukraine over the coronavirus pandemic .

Over 4,300 persons left the country, including 1,700 foreigners.
The State Border Guard Service of Ukraine says nearly 6,500 Ukrainians returned to their home country over the past day.
As of the morning of April 2, there are no queues at checkpoints, border guards said.
Of all Ukrainians who returned from abroad in the past a day, almost 2,500 arrived without their own transport, with vehicles being provided by local authorities and the State Emergency Service.
Видео дня
Read alsoNumber of confirmed coronavirus cases in Ukraine rises to 804 by Thursday morning
In addition, over 4,300 people left the country for the same period, including 1,700 foreigners.
Over the past day, border guards together with representatives of the sanitary-quarantine departments have conducted temperature screening and a medical condition survey of over 8,000 persons. Following additional medical checkups, no signs of COVID-19 have been detected. All Ukrainians crossing in have signed self-isolation consent papers.
As UNIAN reported earlier, according to the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry, over 144,000 citizens returned to Ukraine over the coronavirus pandemic.


unian--2020-04-02--National Bank transfers over US$1.5 bln in profit for 2019 to Ukraine coffers

Jointly with the Finance Ministry , the NBU decided to transfer the entire amount immediately .
The National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) has transferred UAH 42.7 billion ( US $ 1.54 billion ) to the national budget , that is the entire amount of the last year 's profit planned to be channeled into the budget .
`` In such a way , the National Bank helps the government in the difficult task of overcoming the epidemic in Ukraine .
Today , the national budget has a considerable financial burden of combating coronavirus in the country , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regulator wrote on Facebook on April 2 .
According to the NBU , it was decided jointly with the Finance Ministry to transfer the entire amount of profit immediately .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the Council of the National Bank of Ukraine on March 31 approved the NBU 's annual financial statements and profit distribution for 2019 .
Ukraine 's budget for 2020 provides for the transfer by the National Bank to the State Treasury of at least UAH 40.7 billion ( US $ 1.5 million ) in profit for 2019 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the national budget UAH 64.9 billion ( US $ 2.3 billion ) in profit received in 2018 .

National Bank transfers over US$1.5 bln in profit for 2019 to Ukraine coffers
12:40, 02.04.20 2171
Jointly with the Finance Ministry, the NBU decided to transfer the entire amount immediately.
Помогите проекту
Support us


unian--2020-04-02--Chief border guard in Ukraine suggests observation regime would be better than national quarantine

Hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian citizens have returned to the country over the past weeks .
Head of the State @ @ @ @ @ Serhii Deineko says it would be better to initially obligate citizens returning from abroad to @ @ @ @ @ impose a national quarantine .
Answering a clarifying question by an RBC-Ukraine correspondent on whether @ @ @ @ @ a nationwide quarantine , while forcibly placing all those who had arrived from abroad on @ @ @ @ @ `` Of course , that would 've been better . ''
At the same time @ @ @ @ @ people actually returned to Ukraine amid quarantine-related border lockdowns worldwide .
`` Let 's objectively @ @ @ @ @ people have crossed into Ukraine since March 13 .
Tell me , where could we @ @ @ @ @ observation , '' he added .
As UNIAN reported earlier , border guards said that @ @ @ @ @ expected to return home before Easter .

Hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian citizens have returned to the country over the past weeks.
Head of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine Serhii Deineko says it would be better to initially obligate citizens returning from abroad to undergo compulsory observation rather than impose a national quarantine.
Answering a clarifying question by an RBC-Ukraine correspondent on whether it was unnecessary to impose a nationwide quarantine, while forcibly placing all those who had arrived from abroad on observation, he said: "Of course, that would've been better."
Read alsoUkraine's Cabinet lists new quarantine measures
Видео дня
At the same time, Deineko reminded how many people actually returned to Ukraine amid quarantine-related border lockdowns worldwide.
"Let's objectively assess this: about 650,000 people have crossed into Ukraine since March 13. Tell me, where could we place so many people under observation," he added.
As UNIAN reported earlier, border guards said that up to 200,000 Ukrainians are expected to return home before Easter.


unian--2020-04-02--Ukraine to set up Food Security Coordination Council

It will include government officials , reps of agribusinesses , chemical industry , and a number of other related fields .
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky 's economic advisor Oleh Ustenko believes that today Ukraine is at the forefront of the coronavirus spread , but there are processes in the country that can not be put on halt .
Among them , Ustenko singled out quality spring field works by Ukrainian farmers .
`` Today we should seriously think about preparing and ensure the autumn sowing campaign in conditions of the emergency .
Not only agricultural enterprises , but also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process .
It is necessary to fertilize fields – this means uninterrupted work of Ukrainian chemists is important .
Fuel supply is important .
The work of the entire logistics system across the country is important – everything related to issues of warehouse operation , goods shipment , '' Ustenko told UNIAN .
Zelensky 's advisor noted that at the moment , No.1 national priority in Ukraine is fighting against coronavirus , but after the epidemic is over , the country must not find itself in a situation of food crisis .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would call priority two ensuring food security of our country .
It will really depend on how things are going in the agricultural sector and in the sectors that support it , whether we will have bread on the table this and next year , '' the presidential advisor said .
`` Being aware of all the risks and threats of today , we are initiating the creation of an operational coordination council under the working title Harvest 2020 , '' Ustenko added .
According to Ustenko , this coordinating council will include @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Office , representatives of the Ministry of Economics , the Minister of Economy himself , who has already confirmed his participation .
`` Representatives of the National Security and Defense Council will have to join the coordination council , because in the current conditions this is a serious challenge for them too .
Today , we already have requests from specialized associations of chemists and farmers who are ready to provide their experts , and we will actively use the experience and vision of specialists who literally and figuratively work 'in the field @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' said Ustenko .
According to him , if necessary , specialists from other ministries and from across regions will be involved as well .
`` It is obvious that to solve many problems it will be necessary to involve not only representatives of the agricultural sector , or chemists , or representatives of agricultural engineering , but specialists from the ministry of infrastructure , experts from law enforcement agencies will be needed if such issues are raised .
Probably , specialists from the Ministry of Finance will be needed , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ustenko , these are the first sowing campaigns and the first crop in the history of independent Ukraine , which will need to be ensured in such extraordinary conditions .
`` This is a real fight for stability on the Ukrainian food market , as well as for our exports .
Therefore , there should be a comprehensive coordinated work of the state together with representatives of critical industries .
The task of the coordination council is to quickly respond to problems and new challenges , '' said Oleh Ustenko .

Ukraine to set up Food Security Coordination Council
12:00, 02.04.20 1201
It will include government officials, reps of agribusinesses, chemical industry, and a number of other related fields.
Помогите проекту
Support us


unian--2020-04-02--U.S. debunks Russia's "humanitarian aid" claims, says medical supplies fully paid for

Russian envoy earlier claimed Russia was `` lending a helping hand to the American people . ''
The United States has purchased from Russia , not received as assistance , a batch of medical supplies , in particular , ventilators and personal protection equipment .
The delivery was a result of the agreements reached by the heads of both states during a phone call on March 30 .
`` As a follow-up to the March 30 phone call between President Trump and President Putin , the United States has agreed to purchase needed medical supplies , including ventilators and personal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were handed over to FEMA on April 1 in New York City , '' Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said in a press statement on April 1 , 2020 .
The U.S. said the countries of the G20 agreed last week to work together to defeat the coronavirus .
Read alsoUkrainian diplomats ask Mask to help with pulmonary fans for Ukrainian hospitals Moreover , Washington said the United States is a generous and reliable contributor to crisis response and humanitarian action across the world .
On March 30 , Russian media reported on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In addition , Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov said on April 1 the Russian Federation `` is lending a helping hand to the American people .
This is a historical moment and the continuation of a centuries-old tradition , '' without mentioning that this assistance was purchased by the United States .
Earlier , concerns have arisen in Italian political circles and media about the so-called `` humanitarian assistance '' that Russia is providing to the country to combat the coronavirus .
According to senior sources of La Stampa , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ solely humanitarian motives , but rather pursues its own political and diplomatic interests .
Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte , the newspaper writes , agreed to accept Russian assistance to `` strengthen wonderful personal relations '' with Moscow .
However , as the sources of the publication note , 80 % of Russian deliveries are `` absolutely useless or of little use '' for Italy to fight COVID-19 , being nothing more than an excuse .

Russian envoy earlier claimed Russia was "lending a helping hand to the American people."
The United States has purchased from Russia, not received as assistance, a batch of medical supplies, in particular, ventilators and personal protection equipment.
The delivery was a result of the agreements reached by the heads of both states during a phone call on March 30.
"As a follow-up to the March 30 phone call between President Trump and President Putin, the United States has agreed to purchase needed medical supplies, including ventilators and personal protection equipment, from Russia, which were handed over to FEMA on April 1 in New York City," Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said in a press statement on April 1, 2020.
Видео дня
The U.S. said the countries of the G20 agreed last week to work together to defeat the coronavirus.
Read alsoUkrainian diplomats ask Mask to help with pulmonary fans for Ukrainian hospitals
Moreover, Washington said the United States is a generous and reliable contributor to crisis response and humanitarian action across the world.
On March 30, Russian media reported on the transfer of humanitarian aid by Russia. In addition, Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov said on April 1 the Russian Federation "is lending a helping hand to the American people. This is a historical moment and the continuation of a centuries-old tradition," without mentioning that this assistance was purchased by the United States.
Earlier, concerns have arisen in Italian political circles and media about the so-called "humanitarian assistance" that Russia is providing to the country to combat the coronavirus. According to senior sources of La Stampa, Russia is far from being guided by solely humanitarian motives, but rather pursues its own political and diplomatic interests.
Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, the newspaper writes, agreed to accept Russian assistance to "strengthen wonderful personal relations" with Moscow. However, as the sources of the publication note, 80% of Russian deliveries are "absolutely useless or of little use" for Italy to fight COVID-19, being nothing more than an excuse.


unian--2020-04-02--Ukraine's hryvnia weakens to UAH 27.75 to U.S. dollar on April 2

The official forex rate against the euro for Thursday is fixed at UAH 30.32 per euro .
The National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) on April 1 set the official forex rate for April 2 at UAH 27.75 to the U.S. dollar , which let the country 's national currency weaken by 12 kopiykas .
The Central Bank fixed the following official forex rates of the hryvnia against key foreign currencies for April 2 : US $ 100 will be quoted at UAH 2,775.38 ( UAH 2,762.89 as of April 1 ) ; EUR 100 will be quoted at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April 1 ) .
Read alsoUkraine 's central bank spends US $ 2.2 bln from reserves to prop up hryvnia in March On Wednesday , the forex rate of the U.S. dollar set by Kyiv 's currency exchange booths was UAH 28.00 , while that of the euro was UAH 30.80 .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the National Bank conducted the second transaction to exchange cash dollars for cashless ones , transferring to banks US $ 180 million , or the entire proposed amount .
This week , the central bank is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Last week , the NBU sold US $ 130 million in cash to banks .

Ukraine's hryvnia weakens to UAH 27.75 to U.S. dollar on April 2
11:20, 02.04.20 12217
The official forex rate against the euro for Thursday is fixed at UAH 30.32 per euro.
Помогите проекту
Support us


unian--2020-04-02--Ukrainian diplomats ask Musk to help with lung ventilators for Ukrainian hospitals

Musk on March 31 announced on Twitter that he intends to help with ventilators and send them for free to hospitals around the world .
The Ukrainian Embassy in the United States turned for help to the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX billionaire Elon Musk with a request to deliver to Ukraine lung ventilators amid shortages across the country .
`` Dear Elon , Ukraine is the second largest country in Europe with population nearly 40 mln citizens .
The pandemic situation in Ukraine is approaching its peak , April is going to be the hardest .
People in hospitals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cooperate !
Dyakuyemo ! ''
the Embassy tweeted .
Earlier on his Twitter page , Elon Musk wrote that he was ready to send lung ventilators to hospitals around the world to save those suffering from severe cases of COVID-19 .
`` We have extra FDA-approved ventilators .
Will ship to hospitals worldwide within Tesla delivery regions .
Device & shipping cost are free .
Only requirement is that the vents are needed immediately for patients , not stored in a warehouse , '' Musk tweeted .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday evening .

Musk on March 31 announced on Twitter that he intends to help with ventilators and send them for free to hospitals around the world.
The Ukrainian Embassy in the United States turned for help to the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX billionaire Elon Musk with a request to deliver to Ukraine lung ventilators amid shortages across the country.
"Dear Elon, Ukraine is the second largest country in Europe with population nearly 40 mln citizens. The pandemic situation in Ukraine is approaching its peak, April is going to be the hardest. People in hospitals need ventilators. We are ready to cooperate! Dyakuyemo!" the Embassy tweeted.
Read alsoNumber of confirmed COVID-19 cases worldwide exceeds 905,000
Видео дня
Earlier on his Twitter page, Elon Musk wrote that he was ready to send lung ventilators to hospitals around the world to save those suffering from severe cases of COVID-19.
"We have extra FDA-approved ventilators. Will ship to hospitals worldwide within Tesla delivery regions. Device & shipping cost are free. Only requirement is that the vents are needed immediately for patients, not stored in a warehouse," Musk tweeted.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Ukraine reported 794 laboratory-confirmed coronavirus cases as of Wednesday evening.


unian--2020-04-02--Number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Ukraine rises to 804 by Thursday morning

A total of 135 new cases have been recorded over the past day .
The number of confirmed cases of @ @ @ @ @ had risen to 804 by Thursday morning .
`` As of 10:00 Kyiv time on @ @ @ @ @ 804 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ukraine , including 20 deaths , while 13 patients @ @ @ @ @ from hospital , '' Ukraine 's Health Ministry said on Facebook .
A total of @ @ @ @ @ recorded over the past day .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the number of confirmed @ @ @ @ @ in Ukraine had risen to 794 by Wednesday evening .

A total of 135 new cases have been recorded over the past day.
The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in Ukraine had risen to 804 by Thursday morning.
"As of 10:00 Kyiv time on April 2, there were 804 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ukraine, including 20 deaths, while 13 patients have recovered and been discharged from hospital," Ukraine's Health Ministry said on Facebook.
A total of 135 new cases have been recorded over the past day.
Видео дня
Read alsoZelensky: Over 100 perpetrators spinning coronavirus disinformation exposed
As UNIAN reported earlier, the number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in Ukraine had risen to 794 by Wednesday evening.


unian--2020-04-02--POLITICO: 13 countries "deeply concerned" over rule of law

Governments say coronavirus emergency laws must be temporary .
Thirteen EU countries on Wednesday issued a joint statement calling for coronavirus emergency measures to be temporary and in line with rule of law principles .
The move comes after Hungary 's parliament on Monday voted by a two-thirds majority to allow the government of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to rule by decree without a set time limit .
Under the new law , individuals who publicize what are viewed as untrue or distorted facts face several years in jail , POLITICO reported .
`` In this unprecedented situation , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures to protect their citizens and overcome the crisis , '' the 13 countries wrote .
`` We are however deeply concerned about the risk of violations of the principles of rule of law , democracy and fundamental rights arising from the adoption of certain emergency measures . ''
While not naming Hungary , the statement indirectly addressed the controversial provisions of the country 's new law .
`` Emergency measures should be limited to what is strictly necessary , should be proportionate and temporary in nature , subject to regular scrutiny , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ law obligations .
They should not restrict the freedom of expression or the freedom of the press , '' the countries wrote .
Belgium , Denmark , Finland , France , Germany , Greece , Ireland , Italy , Luxembourg , the Netherlands , Portugal , Spain and Sweden signed up to the statement .
The countries said they `` support the European Commission initiative to monitor the emergency measures and their application '' and invite the General Affairs Council meeting of European ministers `` to take up the matter when appropriate .
@

Governments say coronavirus emergency laws must be temporary.
Thirteen EU countries on Wednesday issued a joint statement calling for coronavirus emergency measures to be temporary and in line with rule of law principles.
The move comes after Hungary's parliament on Monday voted by a two-thirds majority to allow the government of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to rule by decree without a set time limit. Under the new law, individuals who publicize what are viewed as untrue or distorted facts face several years in jail, POLITICO reported.
"In this unprecedented situation, it is legitimate that Member States adopt extraordinary measures to protect their citizens and overcome the crisis," the 13 countries wrote. "We are however deeply concerned about the risk of violations of the principles of rule of law, democracy and fundamental rights arising from the adoption of certain emergency measures."
Видео дня
Read alsoPublic health vs personal digital privacy amid Covid-19 spread
While not naming Hungary, the statement indirectly addressed the controversial provisions of the country's new law.
"Emergency measures should be limited to what is strictly necessary, should be proportionate and temporary in nature, subject to regular scrutiny, and respect the aforementioned principles and international law obligations. They should not restrict the freedom of expression or the freedom of the press," the countries wrote.
Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and Sweden signed up to the statement.
The countries said they "support the European Commission initiative to monitor the emergency measures and their application" and invite the General Affairs Council meeting of European ministers "to take up the matter when appropriate."


unian--2020-04-02--Deficit of Ukraine's foreign trade halves amid coronavirus

It was estimated at US $ 590 million .
The deficit of Ukraine 's foreign trade in goods and services @ @ @ @ @ amounted to US $ 590 million , which was half the figure reported in the @ @ @ @ @ As the National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) said on its website , the @ @ @ @ @ goods over this period decreased by 29 % , to US $ 1.013 billion , @ @ @ @ @ trade in services increased by 1.5 times , to US $ 423 million .
Read @ @ @ @ @ US $ 2.2 bln from reserves to prop up hryvnia in March UNIAN memo .
@ @ @ @ @ Ukraine reported that the deficit of Ukraine 's foreign trade in 2019 was US $ @ @ @ @ @ 41.2 % down on the 2018 deficit .
At the same time , the NBU @ @ @ @ @ country 's foreign trade in goods and services in 2019 at US $ 12.117 billion @ @ @ @ @ % up year-over-year .

Deficit of Ukraine's foreign trade halves amid coronavirus
10:00, 02.04.20 1220
It was estimated at US$590 million.
Помогите проекту
Support us


unian--2020-04-02--Three Ukrainian soldiers wounded amid 15 enemy attacks on April 1

The enemy did not attack Ukrainian positions from 00:00 to 07:00 Kyiv time on April 2 .
Russia 's hybrid military forces on April 1 mounted 15 attacks on Ukrainian Army positions in Donbas , eastern Ukraine , with three Ukrainian soldiers reported as wounded in action .
`` The Russian Federation 's armed forces violated the ceasefire 15 times on April 1 .
Three Ukrainian soldiers were wounded as a result of enemy shelling , '' the press center of Ukraine 's Joint Forces Operation Headquarters said in an update posted on Facebook as of 07:00 Kyiv time on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , employing proscribed 152mm and 122mm artillery systems , 120mm and 82mm mortars , infantry fighting vehicles , grenade launchers of various types , heavy machine guns , and small arms .
Under attack came Ukrainian positions near the towns of Maryinka and Krasnohorivka , and the villages of Novotoshkivske , Khutir Vilny , Novo-Oleksandrivka , Orikhove , Pavlopil , Pisky , Novomykhailivka , and Mykolaivka .
According to intelligence data , on April 1 , one Russian occupier was killed and another three were wounded .
The enemy did not attack Ukrainian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on April 2 .

The enemy did not attack Ukrainian positions from 00:00 to 07:00 Kyiv time on April 2.
Russia's hybrid military forces on April 1 mounted 15 attacks on Ukrainian Army positions in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, with three Ukrainian soldiers reported as wounded in action.
"The Russian Federation's armed forces violated the ceasefire 15 times on April 1. Three Ukrainian soldiers were wounded as a result of enemy shelling," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation Headquarters said in an update posted on Facebook as of 07:00 Kyiv time on April 2.
Read alsoGerman, French foreign ministers claim Donbas terrorists make coronavirus pretext for hindering OSCE access
Видео дня
The enemy opened fire, employing proscribed 152mm and 122mm artillery systems, 120mm and 82mm mortars, infantry fighting vehicles, grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, and small arms.
Under attack came Ukrainian positions near the towns of Maryinka and Krasnohorivka, and the villages of Novotoshkivske, Khutir Vilny, Novo-Oleksandrivka, Orikhove, Pavlopil, Pisky, Novomykhailivka, and Mykolaivka.
According to intelligence data, on April 1, one Russian occupier was killed and another three were wounded.
The enemy did not attack Ukrainian positions from 00:00 to 07:00 Kyiv time on April 2.


unian--2020-04-02--In Ukraine, one region left with no confirmed coronavirus cases

Eleven local residents are being tested for the disease .
Ukraine 's southern Mykolayiv region as of April 1 reported @ @ @ @ @ novel coronavirus , the press service of the regional state administration reports .
This the @ @ @ @ @ stats on Covid-19 .
Over the past day , five local residents reported to hospitals @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Currently , coronavirus is suspected in 11 people treated in local hospitals .
@ @ @ @ @ beginning of 2020 , a total of 56 people have sought medical treatment with suspicion @ @ @ @ @ were hospitalized .
Fifty-four people were PCR-tested for COVID-19 .
Today 49 people have a @ @ @ @ @ are being processed , '' the report says .
As UNIAN reported earlier , a @ @ @ @ @ cases have been reported in Ukraine .

Eleven local residents are being tested for the disease.
Ukraine's southern Mykolayiv region as of April 1 reported no confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus, the press service of the regional state administration reports.
This the last Ukrainian region with zero stats on Covid-19.
Over the past day, five local residents reported to hospitals to be tested for coronavirus.
Видео дня
Read alsoZelensky: Over 100 perpetrators spinning coronavirus disinformation exposed
"Currently, coronavirus is suspected in 11 people treated in local hospitals. In total, since the beginning of 2020, a total of 56 people have sought medical treatment with suspicion of COVID-19. Fifty people were hospitalized. Fifty-four people were PCR-tested for COVID-19. Today 49 people have a negative result and five tests are being processed," the report says.
As UNIAN reported earlier, a total of 794 confirmed coronavirus cases have been reported in Ukraine.


unian--2020-04-02--Zelensky: Over 100 perpetrators spinning coronavirus disinformation exposed

The president urged citizens to remain vigilant and trust official information sources only .
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky said @ @ @ @ @ had been exposed over misinforming the public about the novel coronavirus .
Thirty criminal proceedings @ @ @ @ @ president wrote in his public address on Facebook .
`` Today , more than 20,000 @ @ @ @ @ are involved in measures to counter the coronavirus .
Among other things , they are @ @ @ @ @ virus , along with online fraud and distribution of dubious medications , '' he said @ @ @ @ @ , more than a hundred perpetrators were exposed , a number of internet links used @ @ @ @ @ , as well as bank accounts used by online scammers .
`` I urge all @ @ @ @ @ to use only official sources of information , not to trust panic-sowing messages and announcements @ @ @ @ @ claimed to save you from all diseases , '' Zelensky emphasized .
As UNIAN reported @ @ @ @ @ confirmed coronavirus cases as of Wednesday evening was nearing 800 .

The president urged citizens to remain vigilant and trust official information sources only.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky said more than a hundred perpetrators had been exposed over misinforming the public about the novel coronavirus.
Thirty criminal proceedings have been launched, the president wrote in his public address on Facebook.
"Today, more than 20,000 police officers and National Guards are involved in measures to counter the coronavirus. Among other things, they are countering fake reports about the virus, along with online fraud and distribution of dubious medications," he said.
Видео дня
Read alsoUkraine's Cabinet lists new quarantine measures
According to the president, more than a hundred perpetrators were exposed, a number of internet links used for criminal purposes were blocked, as well as bank accounts used by online scammers.
"I urge all citizens to be vigilant, to use only official sources of information, not to trust panic-sowing messages and announcements about obscure medications that are claimed to save you from all diseases," Zelensky emphasized.
As UNIAN reported earlier, a number of confirmed coronavirus cases as of Wednesday evening was nearing 800.


unian--2020-04-03--Ukraine's Chernivtsi region placed on full coronavirus lockdown

The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the region was 171 as of April 2 .
Ukraine 's Chernivtsi region has been placed on a full coronavirus lockdown since 00:00 Kyiv time on April 3 with five quarantine checkpoints set near road police stations at the entry and exit points to/from Chernivtsi region .
`` The posts will start working at noon on April 3 .
From that moment , any passenger vehicle will be blocked , '' Chernivtsi Governor Serhiy Osachuk said on Facebook late on April 2 .
Read alsoNumber of confirmed coronavirus cases in Ukraine nearing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following citizens and vehicles will be allowed to enter and exit the region : trucks ( transporting food , industrial commodities , essential goods , agricultural products ) ; transit vehicles ( without the right to stop and park in the region ) ; vehicles of enterprises and organizations providing life support of the region ; agricultural vehicles ; vehicles of individuals whose places of residence are registered in the region or who live in the region and want to return to their place of permanent residence .
The post are located in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vyzhnytsia and Novodnistrovsk , and the villages of Orshivtsi , Zveniachyn , and Ataky .
In Chernivtsi region , 28 coronavirus cases were confirmed on April 2 alone .
They include three children and nine senior citizens aged over 55 .
Their total number in the region since the first confirmation of COVID-19 is 171 people .

The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the region was 171 as of April 2.
Ukraine's Chernivtsi region has been placed on a full coronavirus lockdown since 00:00 Kyiv time on April 3 with five quarantine checkpoints set near road police stations at the entry and exit points to/from Chernivtsi region.
"The posts will start working at noon on April 3. From that moment, any passenger vehicle will be blocked," Chernivtsi Governor Serhiy Osachuk said on Facebook late on April 2.
Read alsoNumber of confirmed coronavirus cases in Ukraine nearing 900 by Thursday evening
Видео дня
Yet, the following citizens and vehicles will be allowed to enter and exit the region: trucks (transporting food, industrial commodities, essential goods, agricultural products); transit vehicles (without the right to stop and park in the region); vehicles of enterprises and organizations providing life support of the region; agricultural vehicles; vehicles of individuals whose places of residence are registered in the region or who live in the region and want to return to their place of permanent residence.
The post are located in the following settlements: the towns of Vyzhnytsia and Novodnistrovsk, and the villages of Orshivtsi, Zveniachyn, and Ataky.
In Chernivtsi region, 28 coronavirus cases were confirmed on April 2 alone. They include three children and nine senior citizens aged over 55. Their total number in the region since the first confirmation of COVID-19 is 171 people.


unian--2020-04-02--President Zelensky says he's sure new cooperation program with IMF will be signed soon

Zelensky and Guterres discussed , among other things , further reforms in Ukraine .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says he is sure that a new cooperation program with the International Monetary Fund ( IMF ) will be signed soon .
`` We are in constant dialogue with the International Monetary Fund .
We are confident that in the coming weeks we will reach a full understanding and sign a memorandum on the expanded program , '' he told UN Secretary-General António Guterres during a recent phone talk , according to the presidential press service .
Read alsoUkraine could receive from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bln right after fulfilling conditions – MP '' Simultaneously , we are negotiating with the World Bank and other partners on financing in these difficult times .
We need money to support SMEs and our economy , '' he said .
Zelensky and Guterres discussed , among other things , further reforms in Ukraine .
UNIAN memo .
Ukraine and the IMF agreed on a new three-year US $ 5.5 billion Extended Fund Facility ( EFF ) in December 2019 .
On March 26 , the IMF announced progress in negotiations with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the possibility of increasing its volume , but recalled the need to adopt laws to improve banking regulation and continue land reform .
Danylo Hetmantsev , chairman of the parliamentary committee on finance , tax and customs policy , said that Ukraine could receive about US $ 4 billion in the first disbursement from the IMF if the preconditions were met .
On March 30 , the bill on banking regulation passed its first reading , while the bill on the launch of farmland was adopted in the early hours of March 31 @

Zelensky and Guterres discussed, among other things, further reforms in Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says he is sure that a new cooperation program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will be signed soon.
"We are in constant dialogue with the International Monetary Fund. We are confident that in the coming weeks we will reach a full understanding and sign a memorandum on the expanded program," he told UN Secretary-General António Guterres during a recent phone talk, according to the presidential press service.
Read alsoUkraine could receive from IMF first loan tranche worth $4 bln right after fulfilling conditions – MP
Видео дня
"Simultaneously, we are negotiating with the World Bank and other partners on financing in these difficult times. We need money to support SMEs and our economy," he said.
Zelensky and Guterres discussed, among other things, further reforms in Ukraine.
UNIAN memo. Ukraine and the IMF agreed on a new three-year US$5.5 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) in December 2019.
On March 26, the IMF announced progress in negotiations with the Ukrainian authorities on the new program and the possibility of increasing its volume, but recalled the need to adopt laws to improve banking regulation and continue land reform.
Danylo Hetmantsev, chairman of the parliamentary committee on finance, tax and customs policy, said that Ukraine could receive about US$4 billion in the first disbursement from the IMF if the preconditions were met.
On March 30, the bill on banking regulation passed its first reading, while the bill on the launch of farmland was adopted in the early hours of March 31.


unian--2020-04-02--Number of total confirmed COVID-19 cases exceeds 1 mln worldwide

The number of total confirmed COVID-19 coronavirus cases has already exceeded one million people worldwide .
As many as 1,002,159 @ @ @ @ @ the Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases dashboard by the Center for Systems Science and Engineering ( @ @ @ @ @ University as of 10:24 p.m. Kyiv time on April 2 .
Read alsoNumber of confirmed @ @ @ @ @ 900 by Thursday evening The top five countries include the United States with 236,339 confirmed @ @ @ @ @ , Spain with 110,238 , Germany with 84,600 , and China with 82,432 .
The @ @ @ @ @ 51,485 people , including 13,915 in Italy , 10,096 in Spain , 5,648 in the @ @ @ @ @ in France , and 3,199 deaths in Hubei , China .
As of 10:00 p.m. @ @ @ @ @ , Ukraine had confirmed 897 cases , including 22 deaths and 19 recoveries .

Some 208,949 people have recovered.
The number of total confirmed COVID-19 coronavirus cases has already exceeded one million people worldwide.
As many as 1,002,159 COVID-19 cases were reported by the Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases dashboard by the Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University as of 10:24 p.m. Kyiv time on April 2.
Read alsoNumber of confirmed coronavirus cases in Ukraine nearing 900 by Thursday evening
Видео дня
The top five countries include the United States with 236,339 confirmed cases, Italy with 115,242, Spain with 110,238, Germany with 84,600, and China with 82,432.
The total death toll worldwide was 51,485 people, including 13,915 in Italy, 10,096 in Spain, 5,648 in the United States, 4,503 deaths in France, and 3,199 deaths in Hubei, China.
Some 208,949 people have recovered.
As of 10:00 p.m. Kyiv time on April 2, Ukraine had confirmed 897 cases, including 22 deaths and 19 recoveries.


unian--2020-04-02--NATO approves new package to support Ukraine and Georgia – Stoltenberg

The ministers also formally launched the Reflection Process to further strengthen NATO 's political role .
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has announced that NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs have approved a new package of support for Ukraine and Georgia .
`` We decided to deepen our partnerships with Ukraine and Georgia even further .
Including with exercises in the strategic Black Sea region .
As well as joint work to counter hybrid warfare .
And efforts to share more air traffic radar data , making the skies safer for all , '' he said following a ministerial meeting on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Ukraine and Georgia to become future members of NATO '' We also agreed to increase NATO 's cooperation with the United Nations .
With a package of measures to help with UN peacekeeper training .
This includes medical care , countering improvised explosive devices , and communications , '' he said .
The ministers also formally launched the Reflection Process to further strengthen NATO 's political role , he said .
`` I will lead this process with the support of a group of experts , '' he added .
As UNIAN @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was committed that Ukraine and Georgia to become the future members of NATO .

The ministers also formally launched the Reflection Process to further strengthen NATO's political role.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has announced that NATO Ministers of Foreign Affairs have approved a new package of support for Ukraine and Georgia.
"We decided to deepen our partnerships with Ukraine and Georgia even further. Including with exercises in the strategic Black Sea region. As well as joint work to counter hybrid warfare. And efforts to share more air traffic radar data, making the skies safer for all," he said following a ministerial meeting on April 2.
Read alsoU.S. committed to Ukraine and Georgia to become future members of NATO
Видео дня
"We also agreed to increase NATO's cooperation with the United Nations. With a package of measures to help with UN peacekeeper training. This includes medical care, countering improvised explosive devices, and communications," he said.
The ministers also formally launched the Reflection Process to further strengthen NATO's political role, he said.
"I will lead this process with the support of a group of experts," he added.
As UNIAN reported earlier, the United States said it was committed that Ukraine and Georgia to become the future members of NATO.


unian--2020-04-02--Number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Ukraine nearing 900 by Thursday evening

Twenty-two COVID-19 deaths have already been reported in the country .
The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ 897 by Thursday evening .
`` According to the Public Health Center , there were @ @ @ @ @ identified with the use of PCR [ polymerase chain reaction ] in Ukraine as of @ @ @ @ @ 2 , '' Ukraine 's Health Ministry said on Facebook in its evening update on @ @ @ @ @ deaths have already been reported in the country .
Nineteen patients have recovered , their @ @ @ @ @ , the ministry said .
As UNIAN reported earlier , there were 794 confirmed COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ evening .

Twenty-two COVID-19 deaths have already been reported in the country.
The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in Ukraine had risen to 897 by Thursday evening.
"According to the Public Health Center, there were 897 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 identified with the use of PCR [polymerase chain reaction] in Ukraine as of 22:00 Kyiv time on April 2," Ukraine's Health Ministry said on Facebook in its evening update on April 2.
Read alsoAnother coronavirus case registered in Ukraine's army – General Staff
Видео дня
Twenty-two COVID-19 deaths have already been reported in the country.
Nineteen patients have recovered, their repeat tests have been negative, the ministry said.
As UNIAN reported earlier, there were 794 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Ukraine on Wednesday evening.


unian--2020-04-02--Another coronavirus case registered in Ukraine's army – General Staff

As many as 140 servicemen are now in quarantine .
A second coronavirus case has been registered in Ukraine 's army .
`` As of 17:00 Kyiv time on April 2 , the Armed Forces of Ukraine had recorded one more case of COVID19 acute respiratory disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus , '' the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said on Facebook on April 2 .
Read alsoHalf of patients with COVID-19 being treated at home – Ukraine 's Health Ministry In particular , a serviceman serving in the Kyiv garrison , who has been self-isolating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a sick person , has tested positive for the coronavirus .
His test samples were collected on March 30 .
His condition is satisfactory , he is undergoing treatment at home under doctors ' supervision , it said .
Two other servicemen who came in contact with him on service are self-isolating .
The first coronavirus case in Ukraine 's army was reported earlier on April 2 .
As many as 140 servicemen are now in quarantine , including in self-isolation , 72 of them will be able to quit their quarantine @ @ @ @ @ @ @

As many as 140 servicemen are now in quarantine.
A second coronavirus case has been registered in Ukraine's army.
"As of 17:00 Kyiv time on April 2, the Armed Forces of Ukraine had recorded one more case of COVID19 acute respiratory disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus," the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said on Facebook on April 2.
Read alsoHalf of patients with COVID-19 being treated at home – Ukraine's Health Ministry
Видео дня
In particular, a serviceman serving in the Kyiv garrison, who has been self-isolating since March 23 after being in contact with a sick person, has tested positive for the coronavirus. His test samples were collected on March 30.
His condition is satisfactory, he is undergoing treatment at home under doctors' supervision, it said.
Two other servicemen who came in contact with him on service are self-isolating.
The first coronavirus case in Ukraine's army was reported earlier on April 2.
As many as 140 servicemen are now in quarantine, including in self-isolation, 72 of them will be able to quit their quarantine regime in the next three days.


unian--2020-04-02--Reuters: Oil soars over 20% after Trump claims Saudis and Russians to cut output

Oil prices soared on Thursday after U.S. President Donald Trump said he expects Russia and Saudi Arabia to announce a major oil production cut , and Saudi state media said the kingdom was calling an emergency meeting of oil producers to deal with the market turmoil .
Trump said he had spoken to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman , and expects Saudi Arabia and Russia to cut oil output by as much as 10 million to 15 million barrels , as the two countries signaled willingness to make a deal , Reuters reported .
Read alsoThird crude oil transit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine While he said barrels , oil traders believed he meant barrels per day ( bpd ) .
Saudi Arabia said it would call an emergency meeting of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries ( OPEC ) , Saudi state media reported .
The Wall Street Journal reported that the kingdom would consider dropping output to roughly 9 million bpd , or about 3 million bpd less than what it planned on pumping in April .
Brent futures were up $ 5.80 , or 23.4 % , to $ 30.54 a barrel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , while U.S. West Texas Intermediate ( WTI ) crude rose $ 4.91 , or 24.2 % , to $ 25.22 .
Oil prices have slumped since early March , when Saudi Arabia and Russia were unable to come to terms on a deal to curb production , and the Saudis boosted output to more than 12 million bpd and shipped discounted cargoes worldwide .
Since then , the coronavirus pandemic has severely cut fuel demand .
U.S. crude prices fell under $ 20 per barrel a few times during recent days @

The coronavirus pandemic has severely cut fuel demand.
Oil prices soared on Thursday after U.S. President Donald Trump said he expects Russia and Saudi Arabia to announce a major oil production cut, and Saudi state media said the kingdom was calling an emergency meeting of oil producers to deal with the market turmoil.
Trump said he had spoken to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and expects Saudi Arabia and Russia to cut oil output by as much as 10 million to 15 million barrels, as the two countries signaled willingness to make a deal, Reuters reported.
Read alsoThird crude oil transit shipment set to head to Belarus via Ukraine
Видео дня
While he said barrels, oil traders believed he meant barrels per day (bpd).
Saudi Arabia said it would call an emergency meeting of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Saudi state media reported. The Wall Street Journal reported that the kingdom would consider dropping output to roughly 9 million bpd, or about 3 million bpd less than what it planned on pumping in April.
Brent futures were up $5.80, or 23.4%, to $30.54 a barrel by 12:23 p.m. EDT (1623 GMT), while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose $4.91, or 24.2%, to $25.22.
Oil prices have slumped since early March, when Saudi Arabia and Russia were unable to come to terms on a deal to curb production, and the Saudis boosted output to more than 12 million bpd and shipped discounted cargoes worldwide.
Since then, the coronavirus pandemic has severely cut fuel demand. U.S. crude prices fell under $20 per barrel a few times during recent days.


unian--2020-04-02--Zelensky's Office: National Online School to be available for students in Russia-occupied areas

The project will be launched across the country on April 6 .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky 's Office has said students from Russia-occupied Donetsk and Luhansk regions , Crimea and the city of Sevastopol will be able to watch video lessons created as part of the president 's educational initiative , titled `` National Online School '' on Ukraine 's Dom ( Home ) TV channel established for residents of temporarily occupied territories .
Moreover , residents of the Russian-annexed peninsula who have access to TV broadcast via direct broadcast satellite receivers will also be able to watch video lessons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TV Channel and other channels that are project partners , the press service of the Office of the President said on April 2 .
In addition , children from temporarily occupied territories will be able to watch lessons on the Ukrainian Education and Science Ministry 's website ( via Facebook and YouTube ) .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the National Online School project would be launched across the country on April 6 .
The project will provide access to distance learning for all Ukrainian students from 5th to 11th grades amid the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 40 Kyiv teachers will actually become teachers for children across Ukraine .
Today , lessons are being shot daily in line with the balanced curriculum of the Ministry of Education and Science , developed jointly with teachers .
The project will focus on teaching the Ukrainian language and literature , Ukraine 's history , world history , English , physics , algebra , geometry , geography , chemistry , and biology .

The project will be launched across the country on April 6.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's Office has said students from Russia-occupied Donetsk and Luhansk regions, Crimea and the city of Sevastopol will be able to watch video lessons created as part of the president's educational initiative, titled "National Online School" on Ukraine's Dom (Home) TV channel established for residents of temporarily occupied territories.
Moreover, residents of the Russian-annexed peninsula who have access to TV broadcast via direct broadcast satellite receivers will also be able to watch video lessons on UA:Pershyi (First) TV Channel and other channels that are project partners, the press service of the Office of the President said on April 2.
Read alsoUkraine's Education Ministry ready to reschedule independent testing, entrance exams over quarantine
Видео дня
In addition, children from temporarily occupied territories will be able to watch lessons on the Ukrainian Education and Science Ministry's website (via Facebook and YouTube).
As UNIAN reported earlier, the National Online School project would be launched across the country on April 6. The project will provide access to distance learning for all Ukrainian students from 5th to 11th grades amid the coronavirus quarantine.
Within the project, 40 Kyiv teachers will actually become teachers for children across Ukraine. Today, lessons are being shot daily in line with the balanced curriculum of the Ministry of Education and Science, developed jointly with teachers.
The project will focus on teaching the Ukrainian language and literature, Ukraine's history, world history, English, physics, algebra, geometry, geography, chemistry, and biology.


unian--2020-04-02--Over 200,000 coronavirus patients recover worldwide

The number of coronavirus patients who have already recovered was 202,935 people as of 06:00 p.m. Kyiv time on April @ @ @ @ @ data was provided by the Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases dashboard by the Center for Systems @ @ @ @ @ ) at Johns Hopkins University .
Read alsoHalf of patients with COVID-19 being treated at @ @ @ @ @ Ministry The highest recovery figure was reported by China – 76,571 people .
Meanwhile , @ @ @ @ @ nearing 50,000 ; Italy has reported the highest number of deaths – 13,155 people .

The global death toll is nearing 50,000.
The number of coronavirus patients who have already recovered was 202,935 people as of 06:00 p.m. Kyiv time on April 2, 2020.
The data was provided by the Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases dashboard by the Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University.
Read alsoHalf of patients with COVID-19 being treated at home – Ukraine's Health Ministry
Видео дня
The highest recovery figure was reported by China – 76,571 people.
Meanwhile, the global death toll is nearing 50,000; Italy has reported the highest number of deaths – 13,155 people.


unian--2020-04-02--Ukraine boosts gas imports by almost 80% in Jan-March

Slovakia is a key importer of natural gas to Ukraine .
Ukraine in January-March 2020 boosted natural gas imports by @ @ @ @ @ cubic meters ( bcm ) year-over-year ( y-o-y ) .
Over the period under review @ @ @ @ @ the European Union countries alone , the Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine ( GTSOU @ @ @ @ @ particular , 1.9 bcm of gas was imported via the Slovak gas transport corridor , @ @ @ @ @ ( mcm ) and 500 mcm was shipped from Poland and Hungary , respectively .
@ @ @ @ @ : Gas transit via Ukraine in Jan-March shrinks by 53 % to 11.1 bcm Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ bcm of gas , which was twice as many as in March 2019 .
As @ @ @ @ @ in 2019 boosted natural gas imports by 34.4 % , or by 3.65 bcm , @ @ @ @ @ The country in 2018 reduced natural gas imports by 24.6 % from 2017 , to @ @ @

Ukraine boosts gas imports by almost 80% in Jan-March
16:40, 02.04.20 937
Slovakia is a key importer of natural gas to Ukraine.
Помогите проекту
Support us


unian--2020-04-02--SBU conducts search at Kyiv's Eurolab medical center over concealment of positive coronavirus tests

The SBU will focus on violations of law related to the spread of coronavirus in Ukraine .
The SBU Security Service of Ukraine has conducted searches at Kyiv 's Eurolab medical center as part of the proceedings into possible concealment of data on positive coronavirus tests .
`` The Main Investigative Department of the Security Service of Ukraine is investigating possible actions by officials of Eurolab Ltd .
Contributing to the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic and causing harm to the health of Ukrainians , '' the SBU said in a statement .
It is about the deliberate non-reporting to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ test results .
`` On April 1 , 2020 , warranted searches were conducted at the premises of Eurolab Ltd. to establish all circumstances of this offense .
Documents and materiel important for the investigation were seized .
In the near future , seized documents will be analyzed with the involvement of health ministry experts , after which appropriate procedural decisions on criminal proceedings will be taken .
Pretrial investigation is underway , all necessary investigative and search actions are being carried out and provided for by applicable law , '' the SBU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continue to pay special attention to any violations of law related to the spread of coronavirus in Ukraine , since today it is a `` matter of national security '' .
`` We also consider it unacceptable when individuals who , through their actions endangered health and lives of many people , try to evade responsibility and shift the situation to a political plane , '' the report says .

The SBU will focus on violations of law related to the spread of coronavirus in Ukraine.
The SBU Security Service of Ukraine has conducted searches at Kyiv's Eurolab medical center as part of the proceedings into possible concealment of data on positive coronavirus tests.
"The Main Investigative Department of the Security Service of Ukraine is investigating possible actions by officials of Eurolab Ltd. Contributing to the spread of the COVID-19 epidemic and causing harm to the health of Ukrainians," the SBU said in a statement.
It is about the deliberate non-reporting to the relevant state bodies on positive coronavirus test results.
Видео дня
Read alsoFirst coronavirus death reported in Kyiv, over 160 infected
"On April 1, 2020, warranted searches were conducted at the premises of Eurolab Ltd. to establish all circumstances of this offense. Documents and materiel important for the investigation were seized. In the near future, seized documents will be analyzed with the involvement of health ministry experts, after which appropriate procedural decisions on criminal proceedings will be taken. Pretrial investigation is underway, all necessary investigative and search actions are being carried out and provided for by applicable law," the SBU said.
The SBU says it will continue to pay special attention to any violations of law related to the spread of coronavirus in Ukraine, since today it is a "matter of national security".
"We also consider it unacceptable when individuals who, through their actions endangered health and lives of many people, try to evade responsibility and shift the situation to a political plane," the report says.


unian--2020-04-02--Anti-crisis finance minister for country in quarantine

On Monday , a new minister of finance was appointed : the Verkhovna Rada at its extraordinary meeting voted for a 39-year-old Serhiy Marchenko .
He replaced Ihor Umansky , who had been appointed to this post on March 4 when Parliament , at the initiative of President Volodymyr Zelensky , went for an ultimate cleansing of the Cabinet , including through replacing the prime minister .
Thus , the experienced financier Umansky , who in 2009-2010 led the Ministry of Finance as an acting chief , this time lasted in top office for only three weeks .
Prime Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ follows : `` In a difficult time , when the country is struggling with the rapidly spreading coronavirus , rapid action by the authorities is required . ''
Apparently , Umansky had n't shown the necessary qualities in times of crisis .
Rumors about a possible reshuffle in the Ministry of Finance appeared on the eve of Rada 's consideration of an updated government-submitted draft on budget amendments in response to the emergency in the context of the global pandemic and the global economic crisis .
It seems it was the drafting of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ became the starting point in the Cabinet 's move to rapidly change the ministry 's leadership .
According to Ukrainian MPs , the initial version of the budget amendments prepared by Umansky provided for the redistribution of expenses , including reduction of financing of various government agencies and the allocation of significant funds to the stabilization fund set up to tackle coronavirus .
Many parliamentarians categorically objected the proposals .
Instead of budget sequestration , deputies proposed to increase state treasury expenses .
Such developments , apparently , left PM Shmyhal totally unimpressed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amendments was finalized practically without Umansky 's participation .
By the way , at an extraordinary session on Monday , the Rada failed to pass the amendments at first reading , sending the draft back for revision to the relevant parliament committee .
Experts say one of the reasons for Umasnky 's sacking was his moves aimed at changing heads of tax and customs services to bring in his allies .
Obviously , this initiative saw no support from President and PM .
It 's not clear yet , what other candidacies had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ministry besides Marchenko .
According to chair of the Servant of the People faction , David arakhamia , Marchenko ’ s candidacy was negotiated jointly with the President ’ s Office and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal .
It is worth noting that Umansky was dismissed without a hitch , whereas the new minister was appointed from second try .
The second vote saw support of 256 MPs , including those with the pro-reform Holos ( Voice ) faction .
The newly-appointed head of the Ministry of Finance , Ph.D. in Economics , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rather well known in business and political circles .
He graduated from the Academy of the State Tax Service with a degree in Public Finance Management .
Since 2002 , he has held various positions in the Ministry of Finance , the State Fiscal Service , the Committee on Finance and Banking , and the Secretariat of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine .
Since 2011 , he has worked as an outstaffer with the Center for Reform Implementation under the then-President Viktor Yanukovych , then headed by Oleksandr Danyliuk , who later @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Danyliuk that the most important turn in Marchenko 's career is connected : they worked together at Kakha Bendukidze 's Free Economy Center , where Danyliuk was a co-founder , and in May 2016 both came to the Ministry of Finance : Danyliuk – to the post of head of the Ministry and Marchenko – his deputy .
After leaving the Ministry of Finance in the summer of 2018 ( at the same time when Danyliuk also left after a conflict with then-Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman over HR policy ) , Marchenko @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Head of the Administration of the fifth president of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko .
In May 2019 , after new president , Volodymyr Zelensky , took office , he was fired .
In 2019 , Marchenko appeared on the lists of Groysman 's Ukrainian Strategy party , which ultimately did n't make it to Parliament .
On Tuesday , the new minister was introduced to the staff .
In his inaugural address , Marchenko noted the need to increase the efficiency of tax and customs services , as well as the importance of fulfilling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own citizens .
`` Significantly strengthening the country 's fiscal framework is especially important during a crisis .
Effective work of the tax and customs blocs is more important than ever .
The key criterion for evaluating this efficiency will be budget filling , because the state must fulfill its obligations to citizens .
Especially to the least protected ones , '' Marchenko said , outlining his first steps in a new position .
In the meantime , the country 's budget is facing serious problems , which have been exacerbated by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all-Ukrainian quarantine introduced as part of the measures to combat coronavirus .
In the first quarter of this year alone , the state budget failed to receive over UAH 27 billion .
At the same time , Marchenko noted that tax policy should be rational and pragmatic , aimed at protecting and developing the Ukrainian economy .
And to this end , he said , one needs to think about new modes of stimulating businesses , which found themselves in a very difficult situation .
The national economy is entering a crisis period @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the European Business Association , saying that almost half of Ukrainian companies have already recorded from 20 % to 50 % in revenue losses due to quarantine measures and falling global markets .
So far , authorities at the legislative level have eased a number of tax regulations in order to support entrepreneurs , but it is obvious that , if quarantine is prolonged , there will be a need to further easing of tax pressure .
In addition to monitoring the budget , the new head of the Ministry of Finance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cooperation with the International Monetary Fund in order to avoid the country 's default on its obligations .
This is evidenced by the entire expert and business community of Ukraine , noting that this is the only chance for the country to avoid the worst-case scenario .
And , despite the general drama of the current situation , there is a certain amount of optimism on this issue .
Indeed , Ukraine today is as close as possible to concluding a new financing program with the IMF , as it has almost completed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ historic land market law and approving at first reading the draft law on banking regulation .
Its second reading is scheduled for next week .
According to the head of the parliamentary committee on finance , tax and customs policy , Daniil Hetmantsev , Ukraine could receive the first tranche of the IMF loan in the amount of about $ 4 billion immediately after the adoption of the law on banking regulation as a whole .
All that money will be sent to the stabilization fund of the state budget .
Also , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He has to finalize a package of anti-crisis changes to the state budget for 2020 .
In particular , these changes were based on proposals to cut revenues by UAH 123 billion , increase spending by almost UAH 80 billion and , as a result , increase the deficit by more than UAH 200 billion .
These changes to the budget were developed based on an updated macroeconomic forecast with GDP falling by 3.9 % , inflation accelerating to 8.7 % , and an average annual hryvnia exchange rate rising to UAH 29.5 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week criticized the draft and sent it for revision .
Thus , very soon we will be able to see the first results the new minister 's work .
Whatever they are , it is obvious that the new leader will have to make ends meet in the face of a significant economic downturn and shrinking coffers that are rolling the country back by years .

The Verkhovna Rada on Monday appointed a new head of the Ministry of Finance, a young economist with experience in government work Serhiy Marchenko. UNIAN learned the reasons why his predecessor Ihor Umansky, who had worked in office for only three weeks, was fired, as well as new tasks facing the new minister of a country in quarantine.
On Monday, a new minister of finance was appointed: the Verkhovna Rada at its extraordinary meeting voted for a 39-year-old Serhiy Marchenko. He replaced Ihor Umansky, who had been appointed to this post on March 4 when Parliament, at the initiative of President Volodymyr Zelensky, went for an ultimate cleansing of the Cabinet, including through replacing the prime minister.
Thus, the experienced financier Umansky, who in 2009-2010 led the Ministry of Finance as an acting chief, this time lasted in top office for only three weeks. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal explained this unexpected move as follows: "In a difficult time, when the country is struggling with the rapidly spreading coronavirus, rapid action by the authorities is required."
Apparently, Umansky hadn't shown the necessary qualities in times of crisis.
Видео дня
Rumors about a possible reshuffle in the Ministry of Finance appeared on the eve of Rada's consideration of an updated government-submitted draft on budget amendments in response to the emergency in the context of the global pandemic and the global economic crisis.
It seems it was the drafting of amendments to the key financial paper that became the starting point in the Cabinet's move to rapidly change the ministry's leadership.
According to Ukrainian MPs, the initial version of the budget amendments prepared by Umansky provided for the redistribution of expenses, including reduction of financing of various government agencies and the allocation of significant funds to the stabilization fund set up to tackle coronavirus.
Many parliamentarians categorically objected the proposals. Instead of budget sequestration, deputies proposed to increase state treasury expenses. Such developments, apparently, left PM Shmyhal totally unimpressed, so the final draft of budget amendments was finalized practically without Umansky's participation.
By the way, at an extraordinary session on Monday, the Rada failed to pass the amendments at first reading, sending the draft back for revision to the relevant parliament committee.
Experts say one of the reasons for Umasnky's sacking was his moves aimed at changing heads of tax and customs services to bring in his allies. Obviously, this initiative saw no support from President and PM.
It's not clear yet, what other candidacies had been considered for the top post in the ministry besides Marchenko. According to chair of the Servant of the People faction, David arakhamia, Marchenko’s candidacy was negotiated jointly with the President’s Office and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.
It is worth noting that Umansky was dismissed without a hitch, whereas the new minister was appointed from second try. The second vote saw support of 256 MPs, including those with the pro-reform Holos (Voice) faction.
Young manager with vast experience
The newly-appointed head of the Ministry of Finance, Ph.D. in Economics, a 39-year-old senior official Serhiy Marchenko is rather well known in business and political circles. He graduated from the Academy of the State Tax Service with a degree in Public Finance Management. Since 2002, he has held various positions in the Ministry of Finance, the State Fiscal Service, the Committee on Finance and Banking, and the Secretariat of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.
Since 2011, he has worked as an outstaffer with the Center for Reform Implementation under the then-President Viktor Yanukovych, then headed by Oleksandr Danyliuk, who later became Minister of Finance. It is with Danyliuk that the most important turn in Marchenko's career is connected: they worked together at Kakha Bendukidze's Free Economy Center, where Danyliuk was a co-founder, and in May 2016 both came to the Ministry of Finance: Danyliuk – to the post of head of the Ministry and Marchenko – his deputy.
After leaving the Ministry of Finance in the summer of 2018 (at the same time when Danyliuk also left after a conflict with then-Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman over HR policy), Marchenko was appointed to the post of Deputy Head of the Administration of the fifth president of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko. In May 2019, after new president, Volodymyr Zelensky, took office, he was fired. In 2019, Marchenko appeared on the lists of Groysman's Ukrainian Strategy party, which ultimately didn't make it to Parliament.
Crisis times and great challenges
On Tuesday, the new minister was introduced to the staff. In his inaugural address, Marchenko noted the need to increase the efficiency of tax and customs services, as well as the importance of fulfilling Ukraine's obligations to international partners and own citizens.
"Significantly strengthening the country's fiscal framework is especially important during a crisis. Effective work of the tax and customs blocs is more important than ever. The key criterion for evaluating this efficiency will be budget filling, because the state must fulfill its obligations to citizens. Especially to the least protected ones," Marchenko said, outlining his first steps in a new position.
In the meantime, the country's budget is facing serious problems, which have been exacerbated by the slowdown in business activity due to the all-Ukrainian quarantine introduced as part of the measures to combat coronavirus.
In the first quarter of this year alone, the state budget failed to receive over UAH 27 billion. At the same time, Marchenko noted that tax policy should be rational and pragmatic, aimed at protecting and developing the Ukrainian economy. And to this end, he said, one needs to think about new modes of stimulating businesses, which found themselves in a very difficult situation.
The national economy is entering a crisis period, which is confirmed by the data of the European Business Association, saying that almost half of Ukrainian companies have already recorded from 20% to 50% in revenue losses due to quarantine measures and falling global markets. So far, authorities at the legislative level have eased a number of tax regulations in order to support entrepreneurs, but it is obvious that, if quarantine is prolonged, there will be a need to further easing of tax pressure.
In addition to monitoring the budget, the new head of the Ministry of Finance has a responsible mission – to continue cooperation with the International Monetary Fund in order to avoid the country's default on its obligations. This is evidenced by the entire expert and business community of Ukraine, noting that this is the only chance for the country to avoid the worst-case scenario. And, despite the general drama of the current situation, there is a certain amount of optimism on this issue.
Indeed, Ukraine today is as close as possible to concluding a new financing program with the IMF, as it has almost completed the lender's homework – adopting the historic land market law and approving at first reading the draft law on banking regulation. Its second reading is scheduled for next week.
According to the head of the parliamentary committee on finance, tax and customs policy, Daniil Hetmantsev, Ukraine could receive the first tranche of the IMF loan in the amount of about $4 billion immediately after the adoption of the law on banking regulation as a whole. All that money will be sent to the stabilization fund of the state budget.
Also, Marchenko is facing another serious challenge. He has to finalize a package of anti-crisis changes to the state budget for 2020. In particular, these changes were based on proposals to cut revenues by UAH 123 billion, increase spending by almost UAH 80 billion and, as a result, increase the deficit by more than UAH 200 billion.
These changes to the budget were developed based on an updated macroeconomic forecast with GDP falling by 3.9%, inflation accelerating to 8.7%, and an average annual hryvnia exchange rate rising to UAH 29.5 to the dollar.
Deputies earlier this week criticized the draft and sent it for revision. Thus, very soon we will be able to see the first results the new minister's work. Whatever they are, it is obvious that the new leader will have to make ends meet in the face of a significant economic downturn and shrinking coffers that are rolling the country back by years.
Oleksandra Danko


unian--2020-04-02--Ukraine's SBU exposes senior official illegal transferring classified data

The official inflicted damage to sovereignty , territorial integrity , defense capability , and national security of Ukraine , the @ @ @ @ @ SBU Security Service of Ukraine has documented the illicit activities of an official of one @ @ @ @ @ has illegally transferred classified material to third parties .
The law enforcers found that the @ @ @ @ @ A-grade civil servant , had copied and sent to third , unidentified persons by e-mail @ @ @ @ @ SBU press center said .
The document was related to the set of measures of @ @ @ @ @ , law enforcement , and other public authorities to protect national interests in the south @ @ @ @ @ in the Black and Azov Seas , and the Kerch Strait .
By his actions @ @ @ @ @ to sovereignty , territorial integrity , defense capability , and national security of Ukraine , @ @ @ @ @

The official inflicted damage to sovereignty, territorial integrity, defense capability, and national security of Ukraine, the security agency states.
The SBU Security Service of Ukraine has documented the illicit activities of an official of one of the Ukrainian ministries who has illegally transferred classified material to third parties.
The law enforcers found that the official, who is an A-grade civil servant, had copied and sent to third, unidentified persons by e-mail a classified document, the SBU press center said.
The document was related to the set of measures of the Defense Ministry, border, law enforcement, and other public authorities to protect national interests in the south and east of Ukraine, in the Black and Azov Seas, and the Kerch Strait.
Видео дня
Read alsoSpy channel uncovered between Ukraine's naval officer, Russia's FSB – media
By his actions, the official inflicted damage to sovereignty, territorial integrity, defense capability, and national security of Ukraine, the security agency states.
Investigative actions are underway.


unian--2020-04-02--Half of patients with COVID-19 being treated at home – Ukraine's Health Ministry

The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in Ukraine had risen to 804 by Thursday morning .
Of @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus infection in Ukraine , almost 50 % of patients have been hospitalized in health @ @ @ @ @ connected to a ventilator .
`` Today we have 804 coronavirus cases , 398 people @ @ @ @ @ facilities .
The rest are undergoing outpatient treatment at home .
Twenty children and 26 @ @ @ @ @ hospitalized .
There is only one patient treated with the use of a lung ventilator @ @ @ @ @ Medical Officer Viktor Liashko said at a briefing on Thursday , as reported by the @ @ @ @ @ As UNIAN reported earlier , the number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in @ @ @ @ @ by Thursday morning .

The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in Ukraine had risen to 804 by Thursday morning.
Of the current 804 cases of coronavirus infection in Ukraine, almost 50% of patients have been hospitalized in health facilities, with one patient connected to a ventilator.
"Today we have 804 coronavirus cases, 398 people have been hospitalized in medical facilities. The rest are undergoing outpatient treatment at home. Twenty children and 26 health workers are among those hospitalized. There is only one patient treated with the use of a lung ventilator," Ukraine's Chief Medical Officer Viktor Liashko said at a briefing on Thursday, as reported by the Health Ministry on Telegram.
Read alsoUkraine launching production of coronavirus tests
Видео дня
As UNIAN reported earlier, the number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in Ukraine had risen to 804 by Thursday morning.