unian--2020-03-25--Ukraine's Property Fund: Coronavirus quarantine not to affect privatization campaign

The Fund met privatization target for 1Q 2020 as early as March 5 .
Head of the State Property Fund ( SPF ) of Ukraine Dmytro Sennichenko says national quarantine introduced across the country over the novel coronavirus will not alter plans to conduct large- and small-scale privatization campaigns in 2020 .
`` We keep preparing large-scale privatization objects for sale in the middle and second half of the year , as planned .
We are confidently implementing small- and medium-sized privatization [ campaigns ] , while successful online auctions are being held these days , '' he wrote on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ met privatization target for 1Q 2020 as early as March 5 , the official added .
Read alsoProperty Fund boasts of revenue from 2019 small-scale privatization campaign He says the SPF has created opportunities for remote operation , while relevant procedures have gone digital .
The agency is holding online meetings and privatization e-auctions .
`` And in these difficult times , we see our task not only in ensuring the functioning of the Fund , but in even better approaches to addressing current and perspective issues , and in even greater efficiency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ realize that filling the budget to some extent depends on the work of the State Property Fund of Ukraine .
So , we have no right to halt [ the work ] under any circumstances , '' he added .
As UNIAN reported earlier , in 2020 it was planned to raise UAH 12 billion ( US $ 432 million ) in the national budget from the sale of state-owned enterprises ( UAH 6 billion from small- and large-scale privatization campaigns each ) .

Ukraine's Property Fund: Coronavirus quarantine not to affect privatization campaign
18:40, 25.03.20 3018
The Fund met privatization target for 1Q 2020 as early as March 5.
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unian--2020-03-25--Russia, China exploiting coronavirus in geopolitical game

China 's government , which not so long ago hushed down the scale of the epidemic , is now posing as a world savior .
It is surprising how much the coronavirus mixes up in international relations , where the first rift emerged between the U.S. and China .
The United States is accusing China of concealing the facts of the epidemic , stalking the doctors who reported it , and later attempting to put blame on others – in this case , on the United States .
In fact , a spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the SARS-CoV-2 virus outbreak to the U.S. , Polish historian and politician Paweł Kowal wrote for Rzeczpospolita .
For Americans , it is particularly painful that China is efficiently taking advantage of the fact that when the epidemic reached the peak in Europe , and is now accelerating in the U.S. , it 's subsiding in the Chinese province of Wuhan , where it initially began .
This allows the Chinese government to play a completely unexpected role : not the one responsible for delays in reporting the scale and nature of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out the fire .
U.S. President Donald Trump found himself in a terrible position , the report says , adding that he does not yet know how bad it will affect the country – but he knows that he is facing allegations of political naivety .
When he emphasized how confident he is in the information that President Xi Jinping had given him about the epidemic a few weeks ago , U.S. intelligence rang alarm bells about the new coronavirus 's exceptional contagiousness , which implied far more serious consequences than might have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ afford to send show off batches of face masks and respirators to other countries , including U.S. allies .
Of course , much of this help is n't free of charge – but China 's skilled media portray this as `` help . ''
`` Helpless officials in Europe , including those in Poland , pressed by public opinion , ask for help and thank publicly for it .
The queen of politics is perception , and after a few months of the epidemic , the perception is that 'only Chinese help can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reads .
Russia has also joined the game for the role of an anti-epidemic hero – in this case the situation is even more bizarre : the world 's largest country is facing the specter of an epidemic at home , which is just accelerating – however , it demonstratively `` plays '' politically helping countries such as Italy , at the same time demanding that the sanctions related to the seizure of Crimea from Ukraine be lifted .
Just a few weeks ago it was unthinkable that China and Russia would play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own benefit and it was hard to imagine how weak the West would turn out to be .

China's government, which not so long ago hushed down the scale of the epidemic, is now posing as a world savior.
It is surprising how much the coronavirus mixes up in international relations, where the first rift emerged between the U.S. and China. The United States is accusing China of concealing the facts of the epidemic, stalking the doctors who reported it, and later attempting to put blame on others – in this case, on the United States.
In fact, a spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has attempted to publicly shift responsibility for the SARS-CoV-2 virus outbreak to the U.S., Polish historian and politician Paweł Kowal wrote for Rzeczpospolita.
For Americans, it is particularly painful that China is efficiently taking advantage of the fact that when the epidemic reached the peak in Europe, and is now accelerating in the U.S., it's subsiding in the Chinese province of Wuhan, where it initially began. This allows the Chinese government to play a completely unexpected role: not the one responsible for delays in reporting the scale and nature of the virus, but the firefighter who puts out the fire.
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U.S. President Donald Trump found himself in a terrible position, the report says, adding that he does not yet know how bad it will affect the country – but he knows that he is facing allegations of political naivety. When he emphasized how confident he is in the information that President Xi Jinping had given him about the epidemic a few weeks ago, U.S. intelligence rang alarm bells about the new coronavirus's exceptional contagiousness, which implied far more serious consequences than might have been expected.
Read alsoRussia attacking EU in media space amid coronavirus spread (Video)
The Chinese can now afford to send show off batches of face masks and respirators to other countries, including U.S. allies. Of course, much of this help isn't free of charge – but China's skilled media portray this as "help."
"Helpless officials in Europe, including those in Poland, pressed by public opinion, ask for help and thank publicly for it. The queen of politics is perception, and after a few months of the epidemic, the perception is that 'only Chinese help can save us'," the report reads.
Russia has also joined the game for the role of an anti-epidemic hero – in this case the situation is even more bizarre: the world's largest country is facing the specter of an epidemic at home, which is just accelerating – however, it demonstratively "plays" politically helping countries such as Italy, at the same time demanding that the sanctions related to the seizure of Crimea from Ukraine be lifted.
Just a few weeks ago it was unthinkable that China and Russia would play the coronavirus theme so well for their own benefit and it was hard to imagine how weak the West would turn out to be.


unian--2020-03-25--Ukraine's government extends coronavirus quarantine until April 24

The Cabinet first introduced quarantine across Ukraine from March 12 to April 3 over the spread of the novel COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ of Ministers has extended the coronavirus quarantine until April 24 .
The decision was passed @ @ @ @ @ Wednesday , March 25 , according to an UNIAN correspondent .
`` The quarantine is @ @ @ @ @ April 3 to April 24 , '' Minister of the Cabinet of Minister Oleh Nemchinov @ @ @ @ @ approved the respective decision .
The Cabinet also enacted a national emergency .
`` We @ @ @ @ @ , by its decision , introduce an emergency regime throughout the country , '' Interior @ @ @ @ @ before the decision was enacted .
Previously an emergency had been declared in certain regions @ @ @ @ @ Kyiv .
In addition , the state system of civil protection to emergency mode was @ @ @ @ @ emergency and extended quarantine .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the Cabinet first introduced quarantine @ @ @ @ @ to April 3 over the spread of the novel COVID-19 coronavirus .

The Cabinet first introduced quarantine across Ukraine from March 12 to April 3 over the spread of the novel COVID-19 coronavirus.
Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers has extended the coronavirus quarantine until April 24.
The decision was passed at a government meeting on Wednesday, March 25, according to an UNIAN correspondent.
Read alsoUkraine introducing national emergency for 30 days
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"The quarantine is proposed to be extended from April 3 to April 24," Minister of the Cabinet of Minister Oleh Nemchinov had announced before the Cabinet approved the respective decision.
The Cabinet also enacted a national emergency. "We are proposing that the government, by its decision, introduce an emergency regime throughout the country," Interior Minister Arsen Avakov had said before the decision was enacted.
Previously an emergency had been declared in certain regions and in the city of Kyiv.
In addition, the state system of civil protection to emergency mode was transferred to the mode of emergency and extended quarantine.
As UNIAN reported earlier, the Cabinet first introduced quarantine across Ukraine from March 12 to April 3 over the spread of the novel COVID-19 coronavirus.


unian--2020-03-25--Property Fund boasts of revenue from 2019 small-scale privatization campaign

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Property Fund boasts of revenue from 2019 small-scale privatization campaign
16:40, 25.03.20 2408
The agency and its regional offices put 412 small-scale facilities for sale at online auctions last year.
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unian--2020-03-25--Ukraine's Cabinet approves report on fulfilment of 2019 budget

Ukraine's Cabinet approves report on fulfilment of 2019 budget
16:15, 25.03.20 1291
The document is yet to be considered by President Zelensky, the Verkhovna Rada, and the Accounting Chamber.
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unian--2020-03-25--'DPR' terrorists put Poroshenko on 'wanted list' for alleged murder of Pavlov AKA 'Motorola'

They claim he allegedly `` approved the contract hit . ''
Members of the Russia-controlled `` Donetsk People 's Republic '' ( `` DPR '' ) terrorist organization have announced that the fifth president of Ukraine , Petro Poroshenko , has been put on the `` wanted list . ''
`` The so-called 'prosecutor general 's office ' of the 'DPR ' has opened a criminal case against the fifth president of Ukraine , Petro Poroshenko , on suspicion of organizing the murder of one of [ 'DPR ' ] leaders Arsen Pavlov nom de guerre 'Motorola , ' '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Donbasa , which cites announcements posted on `` DPR '' -controlled websites .
Read alsoMysterious deaths of chieftains in Russian-backed `` republics '' since 2015 – Infographic The terrorists claim Poroshenko `` approved the execution plan of Pavlov 's murder executed by the Ukrainian special services . ''
As noted , `` a preventive measure in the form of detention has been chosen '' for Poroshenko , who is `` facing '' from 15 to 20 years in prison or life imprisonment in Russia-occupied Donbas .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Russian citizen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Russia-occupied city of Donetsk in October 2016 .
He was killed in a blast of an improvised explosive device in the elevator of the house where he lived .

They claim he allegedly "approved the contract hit."
Members of the Russia-controlled "Donetsk People's Republic" ("DPR") terrorist organization have announced that the fifth president of Ukraine, Petro Poroshenko, has been put on the "wanted list."
"The so-called 'prosecutor general's office' of the 'DPR' has opened a criminal case against the fifth president of Ukraine, Petro Poroshenko, on suspicion of organizing the murder of one of ['DPR'] leaders Arsen Pavlov nom de guerre 'Motorola,'" according to Ukraine's news outlet Novosti Donbasa, which cites announcements posted on "DPR"-controlled websites.
Read alsoMysterious deaths of chieftains in Russian-backed "republics" since 2015 – Infographic
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The terrorists claim Poroshenko "approved the execution plan of Pavlov's murder executed by the Ukrainian special services."
As noted, "a preventive measure in the form of detention has been chosen" for Poroshenko, who is "facing" from 15 to 20 years in prison or life imprisonment in Russia-occupied Donbas.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Russian citizen Pavlov AKA 'Motorola' was liquidated in the Russia-occupied city of Donetsk in October 2016. He was killed in a blast of an improvised explosive device in the elevator of the house where he lived.


unian--2020-03-25--Expert names sectors to be most affected by coronavirus crisis in Ukraine

Expert names sectors to be most affected by coronavirus crisis in Ukraine
15:29, 25.03.20 3712
The range of products in retail chains may shrink.
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unian--2020-03-25--Ukraine's ex-minister of foreign affairs detained on suspicion of murder

The incident was registered on February 21 .
Ukraine 's former minister of foreign affairs , Leonid Kozhara , has been detained on suspicion of murder .
`` Former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Leonid Kozhara has just been detained by police on suspicion of intentionally killing a citizen in his own house , '' Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Anton Gerashchenko said on Facebook on March 25 .
According to Gerashchenko , Kozhara is now en route to the courtroom where the judge is to decide on his preventive measure .
As UNIAN reported earlier , ex-head of the Inter TV @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Group holding Serhiy Starytsky was shot dead in the house of Kozhara and his wife , Maryna Kozerod , in the village of Chaiky outside Kyiv on February 21 .
The incident was reported to the police by Kozerod .
The preliminary theory was that the victim committed suicide while Kozhara and his wife were in other rooms of the house .
Police at the scene seized a firearm , cartridges and a cartridge case .
Criminal proceedings were opened under Part 1 of Article 115 of the Criminal Code ( intentional homicide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ major theory .
On February 22 , the police reported that the criminal proceedings had been re-qualified from suicide to intentional homicide .
On March 4 , an investigative experiment took place as part of the case , but its conclusions are not to be disclosed being confidential while the pretrial investigation is under way .

The incident was registered on February 21.
Ukraine's former minister of foreign affairs, Leonid Kozhara, has been detained on suspicion of murder.
"Former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Leonid Kozhara has just been detained by police on suspicion of intentionally killing a citizen in his own house," Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Anton Gerashchenko said on Facebook on March 25.
Read alsoBusinessman reportedly shot dead in ex-Foreign Minister Kozhara's house outside Kyiv – media
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According to Gerashchenko, Kozhara is now en route to the courtroom where the judge is to decide on his preventive measure.
As UNIAN reported earlier, ex-head of the Inter TV channel, general director of the Atlantic Group holding Serhiy Starytsky was shot dead in the house of Kozhara and his wife, Maryna Kozerod, in the village of Chaiky outside Kyiv on February 21.
The incident was reported to the police by Kozerod. The preliminary theory was that the victim committed suicide while Kozhara and his wife were in other rooms of the house. Police at the scene seized a firearm, cartridges and a cartridge case.
Criminal proceedings were opened under Part 1 of Article 115 of the Criminal Code (intentional homicide) while "suicide" remained a major theory.
On February 22, the police reported that the criminal proceedings had been re-qualified from suicide to intentional homicide.
On March 4, an investigative experiment took place as part of the case, but its conclusions are not to be disclosed being confidential while the pretrial investigation is under way.


unian--2020-03-25--National Post: COVID-19 crisis leaves 200 Canadian troops stationed in Ukraine in limbo

The current Canadian contingent arrived in Ukraine in October and was supposed to be replaced by a new group next month .
The COVID-19 crisis has left 200 Canadian soldiers in Ukraine – and their families back home – in limbo as commanders weigh whether they should be replaced with new troops , kept in place for the time being or pulled out entirely until the pandemic subsides .
Canada has had military trainers in the eastern European country since the summer of 2015 , during which time they have instructed around 17,000 Ukrainian troops in the basics of soldiering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as first aid and explosives disposal , The National Post , Canada 's English-language newspaper , reported .
Read alsoCanada imposes new sanctions on individuals involved in illegitimate elections in Crimea The mission was launched after Russia annexed the Crimean peninsula in 2014 and unleashed armed aggression in Ukraine 's eastern Donbas region , which resulted in a war that has killed more than 10,000 and left tens of thousands more wounded and homeless .
The current Canadian contingent arrived in Ukraine in October and was supposed to be replaced by a new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are now up in the air because of the COVID-19 pandemic .
The Canadian Armed Forces `` is currently assessing whether the relief in place of forces will proceed as planned given the implications COVID-19 is imposing upon the force , '' Capt .
Alexia Croizer of the Canadian Joint Operations Command told The Canadian Press in an email .
`` A decision by the CAF is expected shortly and will be communicated to members and families first and foremost . ''

The current Canadian contingent arrived in Ukraine in October and was supposed to be replaced by a new group next month.
The COVID-19 crisis has left 200 Canadian soldiers in Ukraine – and their families back home – in limbo as commanders weigh whether they should be replaced with new troops, kept in place for the time being or pulled out entirely until the pandemic subsides.
Canada has had military trainers in the eastern European country since the summer of 2015, during which time they have instructed around 17,000 Ukrainian troops in the basics of soldiering as well as some advanced skills such as first aid and explosives disposal, The National Post, Canada's English-language newspaper, reported.
Read alsoCanada imposes new sanctions on individuals involved in illegitimate elections in Crimea
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The mission was launched after Russia annexed the Crimean peninsula in 2014 and unleashed armed aggression in Ukraine's eastern Donbas region, which resulted in a war that has killed more than 10,000 and left tens of thousands more wounded and homeless.
The current Canadian contingent arrived in Ukraine in October and was supposed to be replaced by a new group next month, but those plans are now up in the air because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Canadian Armed Forces "is currently assessing whether the relief in place of forces will proceed as planned given the implications COVID-19 is imposing upon the force," Capt. Alexia Croizer of the Canadian Joint Operations Command told The Canadian Press in an email.
"A decision by the CAF is expected shortly and will be communicated to members and families first and foremost."


unian--2020-04-17--Shaitanov, detained on treason charges, reportedly involved in preparing contract hit on Avakov

The SBU 's major general was hired by Russia 's FSB to arrange the assassination of a leader of Chechen volunteers .
Ukrainian Deputy Interior Minister Anton Gerashchenko says that Major General of the SBU Security Service of Ukraine Valeriy Shaitanov , who has recently been detained on suspicion of high treason , was involved in preparations for an assassination attempt on Interior Minister Arsen Avakov .
`` This morning , I spoke with the interior minister .
He confirmed that the Security Service and its channels informed that Major General Shaitanov , along with [ arranging ] a contract @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working on an attempted assassination of the interior minister , '' Gerashchenko said on television on April 16 , according to nv.ua .
Gerashchenko also said that he was aware of Shaitanov 's contacts with Russia 's FSB .
`` He [ Shaitanov ] would go on work-related trips abroad , but our European and American counterparts keep the situation with Russian agents under control – they informed the SBU that the SBU 's general had strange ties and contacts with Russian intelligence , '' he said , adding that after this , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exposed him . ''
Read alsoRussia 's FSB reports about detention of Ukrainian 'terrorist ' in occupied Crimea ( Video ) According to the materials of the case , Shaitanov , who is one of the former chiefs of the SBU 's `` A '' Special Operations Center , was secretly working for Russian FSB Colonel Igor Yegorov .
Investigators have evidence that , acting as Russian special services instructed , Shaitanov planned to commit terrorist acts in Ukraine .
He was promised a reward of US $ 200,000 and Russian citizenship .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the purpose .
It was established that Shaitanov had gathered information on secret operations in the Anti-Terrorist Operation/Joint Forces Operation zone in Donbas and about personnel involved in them for further sharing it with the FSB .
He also informed the Russian side about Ukrainian special services ' international security and defense cooperation ; SBU and intelligence officers .
He was also involved in recruiting officers from Ukrainian special and intelligence agencies to work for the FSB .
Shaitanov is suspected of high treason and terrorist attacks .
In particular , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Adam Osmayev , the leader of Chechen volunteers fighting on the Ukrainian side against Russia-led forces in Ukraine 's east .
On April 15 , Kyiv 's Shevchenkivsky district court ruled to remand Shaitanov in custody until June 14 .

The SBU's major general was hired by Russia's FSB to arrange the assassination of a leader of Chechen volunteers.
Ukrainian Deputy Interior Minister Anton Gerashchenko says that Major General of the SBU Security Service of Ukraine Valeriy Shaitanov, who has recently been detained on suspicion of high treason, was involved in preparations for an assassination attempt on Interior Minister Arsen Avakov.
"This morning, I spoke with the interior minister. He confirmed that the Security Service and its channels had informed that Major General Shaitanov, along with [arranging] a contract killing of Adam Osmayev, was also working on an attempted assassination of the interior minister," Gerashchenko said on television on April 16, according to nv.ua.
Gerashchenko also said that he was aware of Shaitanov's contacts with Russia's FSB. "He [Shaitanov] would go on work-related trips abroad, but our European and American counterparts keep the situation with Russian agents under control – they informed the SBU that the SBU's general had strange ties and contacts with Russian intelligence," he said, adding that after this, the Ukrainian agency started "digging into Shaitanov and exposed him."
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Read alsoRussia's FSB reports about detention of Ukrainian 'terrorist' in occupied Crimea (Video)
As UNIAN reported earlier, SBU counterintelligence agents detained Shaitanov on April 14.
According to the materials of the case, Shaitanov, who is one of the former chiefs of the SBU's "A" Special Operations Center, was secretly working for Russian FSB Colonel Igor Yegorov.
Investigators have evidence that, acting as Russian special services instructed, Shaitanov planned to commit terrorist acts in Ukraine. He was promised a reward of US$200,000 and Russian citizenship. Shaitanov hired a former special forces member for the acts.
It was established that Shaitanov had collected information on secret operations in the Anti-Terrorist Operation/Joint Forces Operation zone in Donbas and about personnel involved in them for further sharing it with the FSB.
He also informed the Russian side about Ukrainian special services' international security and defense cooperation; SBU and intelligence officers. He was also involved in recruiting officers from Ukrainian special and intelligence agencies to work for the FSB.
Shaitanov is suspected of high treason and terrorist attacks. In particular, he was engaged in preparations for the assassination of Adam Osmayev, the leader of Chechen volunteers fighting on the Ukrainian side against Russia-led forces in Ukraine's east.
On April 15, Kyiv's Shevchenkivsky district court ruled to remand Shaitanov in custody until June 14.


unian--2020-04-17--Military truck catches fire, explodes while transporting ammunition in Kherson region

No casualties have been reported .
A military KrAZ truck has caught fire and exploded while transporting ammunition in Kherson @ @ @ @ @ information , it is exploded at noon on April 16 after the detonation of the @ @ @ @ @ , the press service of the State Bureau of Investigation ( SBI ) said .
@ @ @ @ @ military personnel and civilians , it said .
SBI investigators examined the scene of the @ @ @ @ @ of the fire .
A pretrial investigation was launched on facts of destruction of weapons @ @ @ @ @ other military property , which caused large-scale damage ( Part 1 of Article 412 of @ @ @ @ @ ) .

No casualties have been reported.
A military KrAZ truck has caught fire and exploded while transporting ammunition in Kherson region.
According to preliminary information, it is exploded at noon on April 16 after the detonation of the ammunition the truck was carrying, the press service of the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) said.
Read alsoRussian-led forces in Donbas shell residential buildings in Krasnohorivka
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There were no casualties among military personnel and civilians, it said.
SBI investigators examined the scene of the incident to establish the cause of the fire.
A pretrial investigation was launched on facts of destruction of weapons, ammunition, vehicles and other military property, which caused large-scale damage (Part 1 of Article 412 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).


unian--2020-04-16--Kyiv tops Air Quality Ranking as most polluted city on April 16

The local authorities explain the phenomenon by wildfires .
The Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv has topped the live Air @ @ @ @ @ on Thursday , April 16 , as the city with the dirtiest air , as @ @ @ @ @ ( AQI ) was the highest one ( 380 ) .
Kyiv was followed by @ @ @ @ @ with 180 and Chengdu with 171 , the ranking shows .
Kyiv City State Administration @ @ @ @ @ in Zhytomyr region and forest fires in the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone , as well as @ @ @ @ @ The radiation background is within the norm , '' the local authorities assured .
Read @ @ @ @ @ Kyiv suffering from air pollution They called on residents of Kyiv to limit time spent @ @ @ @ @ ( especially at night and early in the morning ) , use air conditioning equipment @ @ @ @ @ up to three liters of water ( for adults ) .
Earlier on Thursday , @ @ @ @ @ from dust and sand storm .

The local authorities explain the phenomenon by wildfires.
The Ukrainian capital city of Kyiv has topped the live Air Quality and Pollution City Ranking on Thursday, April 16, as the city with the dirtiest air, as its US Air Quality Index (AQI) was the highest one (380).
Kyiv was followed by two Chinese cities – Shenyang with 180 and Chengdu with 171, the ranking shows.
Kyiv City State Administration explained the phenomenon by wildfires in Zhytomyr region and forest fires in the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone, as well as northwest wind gusts.
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"The radiation background is within the norm," the local authorities assured.
Read alsoWorse than in Beijing: Kyiv suffering from air pollution
They called on residents of Kyiv to limit time spent outdoors, keep windows closed (especially at night and early in the morning), use air conditioning equipment and air purifiers, drink up to three liters of water (for adults).
Earlier on Thursday, the city and neighborhoods suffered from dust and sand storm.


unian--2020-04-16--EU on exchange of Donbas detainees: Welcome next step towards Paris agreement implementation

The European Union reaffirmed its support to the work of the Normandy Format , the OSCE , and the Minsk Trilateral Contact Group .
The European Union has described the latest exchange of detainees between Ukraine and Russia-occupied Donbas as a welcome next step towards the implementation of measures agreed at the Normandy Four summit in Paris .
`` On April 16 , following an agreement reached by the Trilateral Contact Group , a mutual release and exchange of detainees related to the conflict in eastern Ukraine took place , '' EU Lead Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` This is a welcome next step towards the implementation of one of the measures agreed at the Paris Normandy Format Summit of December 9 , 2019 . ''
Read alsoU.S .
calls on Russia to immediately release all unjustly imprisoned Ukrainians The European Union says it expects all parties to continue work to implement the Minsk agreements , including by drawing on the recommendations agreed in the Normandy Format .
The European Union reaffirmed its support to the work of the Normandy Format , the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Group .
`` Full implementation of the Minsk agreements is the only way to reach a sustainable and peaceful solution to the conflict in eastern Ukraine .
A permanent ceasefire – also as a response to the global call of UN Secretary General Guterres – would build confidence and alleviate the dire humanitarian situation , '' it said .
`` Russia and the armed formations that it backs must also ensure freedom of movement across the contact line for the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission and humanitarian actors , as well as access of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to all those remaining in detention , '' it added .
The European Union reiterated it remains steadfast in its firm support of Ukraine 's independence , sovereignty and territorial integrity .

The European Union reaffirmed its support to the work of the Normandy Format, the OSCE, and the Minsk Trilateral Contact Group.
The European Union has described the latest exchange of detainees between Ukraine and Russia-occupied Donbas as a welcome next step towards the implementation of measures agreed at the Normandy Four summit in Paris.
"On April 16, following an agreement reached by the Trilateral Contact Group, a mutual release and exchange of detainees related to the conflict in eastern Ukraine took place," EU Lead Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Peter Stano said in a statement. "This is a welcome next step towards the implementation of one of the measures agreed at the Paris Normandy Format Summit of December 9, 2019."
Read alsoU.S. calls on Russia to immediately release all unjustly imprisoned Ukrainians
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The European Union says it expects all parties to continue work to implement the Minsk agreements, including by drawing on the recommendations agreed in the Normandy Format.
The European Union reaffirmed its support to the work of the Normandy Format, the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and the Trilateral Contact Group.
"Full implementation of the Minsk agreements is the only way to reach a sustainable and peaceful solution to the conflict in eastern Ukraine. A permanent ceasefire – also as a response to the global call of UN Secretary General Guterres – would build confidence and alleviate the dire humanitarian situation," it said.
"Russia and the armed formations that it backs must also ensure freedom of movement across the contact line for the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission and humanitarian actors, as well as access of the International Committee of the Red Cross, to all those remaining in detention," it added.
The European Union reiterated it remains steadfast in its firm support of Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.


unian--2020-04-16--Putin postpones May 9 parade over coronavirus

Yet , he promises , the celebrations will be held in 2020 anyway .
Russian President Vladimir Putin has postponed Victory Day public events , including a military parade across Moscow 's Red Square , over the novel coronavirus .
`` To hold the parade on May 9 , its preparations should begin right now .
The risks associated with an epidemic that has not passed its peak are extremely high .
And this does not give me the right to begin preparations for the parade and other public events , '' he said at a meeting with permanent members @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on April 16 , according to an UNIAN correspondent .
`` Therefore , I instruct the defense minister , the heads of law enforcement agencies to change the schedule and postpone preparations for the military parade on Red Square , parades in the regions , to postpone all public events planned for the 75th anniversary of the Great Victory , '' he said .
According to him , the celebrations will take place after Russia `` makes the threat it is now facing '' recede .
`` [ They will be held ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more so the whole year has been declared the year of memory and glory in Russia , '' he added .
Putin assured that there would be the Red Square parade and the March of the Immortal Regiment to honor war veterans .

Yet, he promises, the celebrations will be held in 2020 anyway.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has postponed Victory Day public events, including a military parade across Moscow's Red Square, over the novel coronavirus.
"To hold the parade on May 9, its preparations should begin right now. The risks associated with an epidemic that has not passed its peak are extremely high. And this does not give me the right to begin preparations for the parade and other public events," he said at a meeting with permanent members of the Russian Federation's Security Council on April 16, according to an UNIAN correspondent.
Read alsoTrump's national security advisor to attend Putin's May 9 parade
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"Therefore, I instruct the defense minister, the heads of law enforcement agencies to change the schedule and postpone preparations for the military parade on Red Square, parades in the regions, to postpone all public events planned for the 75th anniversary of the Great Victory," he said.
According to him, the celebrations will take place after Russia "makes the threat it is now facing" recede.
"[They will be held] this year, 2020, all the more so the whole year has been declared the year of memory and glory in Russia," he added.
Putin assured that there would be the Red Square parade and the March of the Immortal Regiment to honor war veterans.


unian--2020-04-16--U.S. calls on Russia to immediately release all unjustly imprisoned Ukrainians

U.S. diplomats welcome the latest exchange of detainees .
The United States has called on the Russian Federation to immediately release all unjustly imprisoned Ukrainians .
`` Despite today 's progress , many Ukrainians remain unjustly imprisoned by Russia and its proxies , and Russia continues to unlawfully violate Ukraine 's sovereignty and territorial integrity .
We call on Russia to immediately release all other Ukrainians who remain unjustly imprisoned and to fully withdraw its forces from Ukrainian territory , '' the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv said after the latest swap of prisoners between Ukraine and Russia-occupied Donbas .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return of liberated captives from Russia-controlled Donbas and commend the Ukrainian government on its continued efforts to achieve a diplomatic solution to the Russia-instigated conflict in Ukraine , '' the Embassy said .
`` As we have repeatedly stated , the United States will maintain sanctions against Russia until the Russian government returns control of Crimea to Ukraine and fully implements the Minsk agreements , '' it added .
As UNIAN reported , the exchange of prisoners between Ukraine and the two self-proclaimed republics in Donbas took places in two stages on April @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Russia-controlled illegal armed formations .
Among those released were mainly civilians , as well as two servicemen and one law enforcement officer .

U.S. diplomats welcome the latest exchange of detainees.
The United States has called on the Russian Federation to immediately release all unjustly imprisoned Ukrainians.
"Despite today's progress, many Ukrainians remain unjustly imprisoned by Russia and its proxies, and Russia continues to unlawfully violate Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. We call on Russia to immediately release all other Ukrainians who remain unjustly imprisoned and to fully withdraw its forces from Ukrainian territory," the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv said after the latest swap of prisoners between Ukraine and Russia-occupied Donbas.
Read alsoEx-political prisoner Sentsov comments on today's prisoner swap
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"We welcome today's news of the return of liberated captives from Russia-controlled Donbas and commend the Ukrainian government on its continued efforts to achieve a diplomatic solution to the Russia-instigated conflict in Ukraine," the Embassy said.
"As we have repeatedly stated, the United States will maintain sanctions against Russia until the Russian government returns control of Crimea to Ukraine and fully implements the Minsk agreements," it added.
As UNIAN reported, the exchange of prisoners between Ukraine and the two self-proclaimed republics in Donbas took places in two stages on April 16. Twenty Ukrainian citizens were released by Russia-controlled illegal armed formations. Among those released were mainly civilians, as well as two servicemen and one law enforcement officer.


unian--2020-04-16--Ukraine's government appoints Olha Buslavets acting energy minister

The decision was taken at a special Cabinet meeting .
Ukraine 's Cabinet of Ministers has appointed Olha Buslavets First Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Protection – she will simultaneously work as acting energy minister .
`` At its special meeting , just moments ago , the government has appointed Olha Buslavets acting Minister of Energy and Environmental Protection of Ukraine in the capacity of the first deputy minister , '' Member of Parliament representing the Servant of the People parliamentary faction Oleksandr Dubinsky said on Facebook on April 16 .
`` [ It has been done ] without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in parliament .
[ Owner of the DTEK energy holding Rinat ] Akhmetov is above all for [ Prime Minister Denys ] Shmyhal .
This is understandable .
But as for lawmakers who are outraged by the way Shmyhal behaves , my advice is – you eat the dust .
You yourself have turned into nothing and nobody , bootlickers .
They do not take advice from such people , '' he added .
As UNIAN reported , the Verkhovna Rada on March 4 , 2020 , dismissed Prime Minister Oleksiy Honcharuk and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was appointed head of the new government .
On March 11 , the Cabinet tapped First Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Protection Vitaliy Shubin to work as acting minister .
He was dismissed prior to Buslavets ' appointment .
In 2017-2019 , Shmyhal worked as an executive at DTEK , an energy holding owned by Ukraine 's richest oligarch , Rinat Akhmetov .

Ukraine's government appoints Olha Buslavets acting energy minister
19:59, 16.04.20 28308
The decision was taken at a special Cabinet meeting.
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unian--2020-04-16--New forest fire outbreaks reported in Chornobyl zone

A fire broke out near the village of Korohod in the exclusion zone .
New forest fire outbreaks have been reported in the Chornobyl exclusion zone .
`` There is an open fire in the Chornobyl zone again , '' Director of the Chornobyl Tour operator Yaroslav Yemelianenko wrote on Facebook on April 16 .
According to him , a fire broke out near the village of Korohod in the exclusion zone .
`` Sandstorm on April 16 is blowing smoldering areas to open flames in many places .
There are also new outbreaks in the biosphere reserve 's territory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said .
`` I hope very much the government 's reaction this time will be immediate , without delay , '' he added .
As UNIAN reported earlier , first forest fires in the Chornobyl exclusion zone began on April 4 , covering 20 hectares then .
On April 7 , the area affected by the fires expanded to 35 hectares .
Police say they have identified a 27-year old local resident who they accuse of deliberately starting the blaze .
Yemelianenko , writing on Facebook on April 13 , described the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was rapidly expanding and had reached the abandoned town of Pripyat , two kilometers from where `` the most highly active radiation waste of the whole Chornobyl zone is located . ''
He called on officials to warn people of the danger .
Acting chairman of the State Environmental Inspectorate Yehor Firsov said on April 14 that they had managed to contain the fire in the Chornobyl zone and radiation levels were within normal limits overall .
Chairman of the State Emergency Service Mykola Chechotkin , in turn , said that a few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the remaining smoldering areas left after the devastating forest fire in the Chornobyl zone .

A fire broke out near the village of Korohod in the exclusion zone.
New forest fire outbreaks have been reported in the Chornobyl exclusion zone.
"There is an open fire in the Chornobyl zone again," Director of the Chornobyl Tour operator Yaroslav Yemelianenko wrote on Facebook on April 16.
According to him, a fire broke out near the village of Korohod in the exclusion zone.
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"Sandstorm on April 16 is blowing smoldering areas to open flames in many places. There are also new outbreaks in the biosphere reserve's territory near the village of Dytiatky," he said.
"I hope very much the government's reaction this time will be immediate, without delay," he added.
As UNIAN reported earlier, first forest fires in the Chornobyl exclusion zone began on April 4, covering 20 hectares then. On April 7, the area affected by the fires expanded to 35 hectares.
Police say they have identified a 27-year old local resident who they accuse of deliberately starting the blaze.
Read alsoWildfire destroys 30% of tourist sites in Chornobyl zone
Yemelianenko, writing on Facebook on April 13, described the situation as critical, as the fire was rapidly expanding and had reached the abandoned town of Pripyat, two kilometers from where "the most highly active radiation waste of the whole Chornobyl zone is located." He called on officials to warn people of the danger.
Acting chairman of the State Environmental Inspectorate Yehor Firsov said on April 14 that they had managed to contain the fire in the Chornobyl zone and radiation levels were within normal limits overall.
Chairman of the State Emergency Service Mykola Chechotkin, in turn, said that a few more days were needed to completely liquidate the remaining smoldering areas left after the devastating forest fire in the Chornobyl zone.


unian--2020-04-16--European Parliament pushes for Eastern partners' greater integration, slams Russia – RFE/RL

The document is to be debated by the European Parliament 's Foreign Affairs Committee in the coming weeks and could potentially be endorsed by the full chamber in May .
The European Parliament will call for the creation of a `` common economic space '' between the EU and the six former Soviet republics of its Eastern Partnership program as part of a process of `` gradual integration '' into the bloc .
The parliamentary draft report seen by RFE/RL on April 15 also denounces Russia 's `` illegal '' actions in Eastern Partnership countries – Armenia , Azerbaijan , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine – including what it calls destabilization , invasion , and annexation .
The document is to be debated by the European Parliament 's Foreign Affairs Committee in the coming weeks and could potentially be endorsed by the full chamber in May .
A Brussels summit bringing together the leaders of the 27 EU member states with those of the six Eastern Partnership members is scheduled for June 18 .
But several EU diplomats told RFE/RL the gathering might be postponed to the second half of the year due to the coronavirus pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which has vehemently opposed efforts by countries of the ex-Soviet bloc to get closer to the EU and NATO , the European Parliament will `` confirm the sovereign right of the Eastern partner countries to freely choose their individual level of cooperation or integration with the EU , '' according to the draft report .
The document adds that the European lawmakers want to `` embark on a process to create a common economic space , including services , that facilitates deeper economic integration and convergence with the EU policies and deeper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ themselves . ''
The lawmakers will express support for a gradual integration of the six countries into the EU 's energy union , transport community , and digital single market , according to the draft report .
Among other things , in the telecommunications field the document suggests creating `` a roaming-free regime between the EU and Eastern Partnership countries and an intra-Eastern Partnership one as soon as possible . ''
Other suggestions include the establishment of an Eastern Partnership University in Kyiv .
The Eastern Partnership program was launched in 2009 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Soviet republics closer to the EU without clearly offering future membership .

The document is to be debated by the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee in the coming weeks and could potentially be endorsed by the full chamber in May.
The European Parliament will call for the creation of a "common economic space" between the EU and the six former Soviet republics of its Eastern Partnership program as part of a process of "gradual integration" into the bloc.
The parliamentary draft report seen by RFE/RL on April 15 also denounces Russia's "illegal" actions in Eastern Partnership countries – Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine – including what it calls destabilization, invasion, and annexation.
The document is to be debated by the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee in the coming weeks and could potentially be endorsed by the full chamber in May.
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A Brussels summit bringing together the leaders of the 27 EU member states with those of the six Eastern Partnership members is scheduled for June 18. But several EU diplomats told RFE/RL the gathering might be postponed to the second half of the year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Read alsoFarmland market launched in Ukraine: main facts
In a veiled reference to Russia, which has vehemently opposed efforts by countries of the ex-Soviet bloc to get closer to the EU and NATO, the European Parliament will "confirm the sovereign right of the Eastern partner countries to freely choose their individual level of cooperation or integration with the EU," according to the draft report.
The document adds that the European lawmakers want to "embark on a process to create a common economic space, including services, that facilitates deeper economic integration and convergence with the EU policies and deeper economic cooperation among the Eastern Partnership countries themselves."
The lawmakers will express support for a gradual integration of the six countries into the EU's energy union, transport community, and digital single market, according to the draft report.
Among other things, in the telecommunications field the document suggests creating "a roaming-free regime between the EU and Eastern Partnership countries and an intra-Eastern Partnership one as soon as possible." Other suggestions include the establishment of an Eastern Partnership University in Kyiv.
Read alsoUkraine enters world's top five poultry suppliers
The Eastern Partnership program was launched in 2009 and is meant to bring the six former Soviet republics closer to the EU without clearly offering future membership.


unian--2020-04-16--Zelensky vows to fight till every Ukrainian captive returns home

The president said he was very glad that the first part of the citizens of Ukraine had already been released .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said another stage of mutual release of held persons is taking place within the framework of the agreements reached during the Minsk process and the Normandy format , and assured the Ukrainian authorities will fight until every Ukrainian captive returns home .
`` I , as any person , have only positive emotions .
Today we 're bringing back our men , our citizens of Ukraine , and I rejoice every time we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and ordinary citizens of Ukraine .
Because for us , ordinary citizens of Ukraine are the same heroes since they had been thrown behind bars because they defended our Ukraine , our sovereignty , our territorial integrity , '' he told journalists during a working trip to Zakarpattia region .
`` The time will come and we will return everyone , first of all , as we said , we will return everyone both within the framework of the Minsk agreements and the agreements of the Normandy Four .
We will free everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' Zelensky added .
As UNIAN reported earlier , another stage of the prisoner swap has kicked off in Donbas today , April 16 , to bringing home 19 of Ukrainian citizens who have been held in captivity in the temporarily occupied territories .

The president said he was very glad that the first part of the citizens of Ukraine had already been released.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said another stage of mutual release of held persons is taking place within the framework of the agreements reached during the Minsk process and the Normandy format, and assured the Ukrainian authorities will fight until every Ukrainian captive returns home.
"I, as any person, have only positive emotions. Today we're bringing back our men, our citizens of Ukraine, and I rejoice every time we have our military heroes returned, political prisoners and ordinary citizens of Ukraine. Because for us, ordinary citizens of Ukraine are the same heroes since they had been thrown behind bars because they defended our Ukraine, our sovereignty, our territorial integrity," he told journalists during a working trip to Zakarpattia region.
Read alsoEx-political prisoner Sentsov comments on today's prisoner swap
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"The time will come and we will return everyone, first of all, as we said, we will return everyone both within the framework of the Minsk agreements and the agreements of the Normandy Four. We will free everyone and fight until every Ukrainian returns home," Zelensky added.
As UNIAN reported earlier, another stage of the prisoner swap has kicked off in Donbas today, April 16, to bringing home 19 of Ukrainian citizens who have been held in captivity in the temporarily occupied territories.


unian--2020-04-16--Some 30% of stores may fail to open in Ukraine after COVID-19 quarantine is over – experts

Some 30% of stores may fail to open in Ukraine after COVID-19 quarantine is over – experts
16:20, 16.04.20 4966
Many retailers stick to a watch and see position.
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unian--2020-04-16--IMF confident Ukraine to meet conditions soon for launching new program

The discussions with Ukraine are ongoing , the official said .
Director of the European Department at the International Monetary Fund ( IMF ) Poul M. Thomsen has said the Fund supports the intention of the Ukrainian authorities to widen the budget deficit over the coronavirus pandemic and is confident Ukraine will soon meet the conditions for launching a new supported program .
`` Ukraine is being severely affected by the pandemic .
The government is taking measures that will result in a very significant increase in the fiscal deficit .
We fully support this , '' he told April @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fortunately , during the last several years in the context of the IMF 's supported program , Ukraine has achieved significant measures of macroeconomic stability .
The banking system stability has improved .
Inflation has come down .
External deficits have come down .
Fiscal deficits have come down significantly .
Public debt has come down and foreign reserves are significantly higher , well over 20 billion .
And that gives , certainly , Ukraine the buffers it needs to undertake the immediate policy reaction , '' he said .
According to Thomsen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Ukraine on the new program .
`` These discussions are well advanced and I think they are going well .
There is a number of - a few issues outstanding , and I am confident that they will be overcome soon and that we can recommend a program to our Board .
Say we are well advanced and that will , of course , give Ukraine more resources to enlarge its policy space in dealing with this crisis , '' he added .

The discussions with Ukraine are ongoing, the official said.
Director of the European Department at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Poul M. Thomsen has said the Fund supports the intention of the Ukrainian authorities to widen the budget deficit over the coronavirus pandemic and is confident Ukraine will soon meet the conditions for launching a new supported program.
"Ukraine is being severely affected by the pandemic. The government is taking measures that will result in a very significant increase in the fiscal deficit. We fully support this," he told April 2020 European Department press briefing.
Read alsoNational bank tells of rough crisis scenario for Ukraine
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"Fortunately, during the last several years in the context of the IMF's supported program, Ukraine has achieved significant measures of macroeconomic stability. The banking system stability has improved. Inflation has come down. External deficits have come down. Fiscal deficits have come down significantly. Public debt has come down and foreign reserves are significantly higher, well over 20 billion. And that gives, certainly, Ukraine the buffers it needs to undertake the immediate policy reaction," he said.
According to Thomsen, the IMF is now in discussions with Ukraine on the new program.
"These discussions are well advanced and I think they are going well. There is a number of - a few issues outstanding, and I am confident that they will be overcome soon and that we can recommend a program to our Board. Say we are well advanced and that will, of course, give Ukraine more resources to enlarge its policy space in dealing with this crisis," he added.


unian--2020-04-16--Kyiv mayor reports 32 new COVID-19 cases in past day

Another lethal case was recorded in Kyiv .
Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko has said the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the city rose by 32 in the past day , bringing a total to 644 .
In the past day , another lethal case was recorded [ in Kyiv ] .
Thus , there are already 12 COVID-19 deaths in the capital .
Eleven women aged 29 to 80 and a two-year-old girl , as well as 20 men aged 19 to 60 are among those infected , including one healthcare worker , '' he told an online briefing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on April 16 .
Klitschko said three new patients had been hospitalized , while the rest remained in self-isolation , undergoing treatment at home under medical supervision .
In particular , 184 cases were recorded in the city 's Pechersky district , 67 in Shevchenkivsky and Solomyansky districts each , 46 in Dniprovsky district , 27 in Sviatoshynsky district , 40 in Desniansky district , 28 in Podilsky districts , 47 in Holosiyivsky district , 33 in Obolonsky district , and 105 in Darnytsky district .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Ukraine stood at 4,161 as of Thursday morning , April 16 .
A total of 116 COVID-19 deaths and 186 recoveries have been recorded in the country .

Another lethal case was recorded in Kyiv.
Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko has said the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the city rose by 32 in the past day, bringing a total to 644.
In the past day, another lethal case was recorded [in Kyiv]. Thus, there are already 12 COVID-19 deaths in the capital. Eleven women aged 29 to 80 and a two-year-old girl, as well as 20 men aged 19 to 60 are among those infected, including one healthcare worker," he told an online briefing, as reported by an UNIAN correspondent on April 16.
Read alsoTemperature screening introduced on roads leading to Kyiv
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Klitschko said three new patients had been hospitalized, while the rest remained in self-isolation, undergoing treatment at home under medical supervision.
In particular, 184 cases were recorded in the city's Pechersky district, 67 in Shevchenkivsky and Solomyansky districts each, 46 in Dniprovsky district, 27 in Sviatoshynsky district, 40 in Desniansky district, 28 in Podilsky districts, 47 in Holosiyivsky district, 33 in Obolonsky district, and 105 in Darnytsky district.
As UNIAN reported earlier, the number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in Ukraine stood at 4,161 as of Thursday morning, April 16. A total of 116 COVID-19 deaths and 186 recoveries have been recorded in the country.


unian--2020-04-16--Donbas prisoner swap: 20 Ukrainians handed over to Ukraine gov't

It 's mainly civilians who have been released , as well as two military and a law enforcement officer .
@ @ @ @ @ Office says 20 Ukrainians held in captivity by Russian-controlled forces in the self-proclaimed `` Donetsk @ @ @ @ @ '' ( `` DPR '' / '' LPR '' ) in Donbas , were released @ @ @ @ @ part of the latest prisoner swap effort today , April 16 .
It 's mainly @ @ @ @ @ , as well as two military and a law enforcement officer , the Office said @ @ @ @ @ , having published the relevant list .
Ukrainian nationals released from captivity in the so-called @ @ @ @ @ nationals released from captivity in the so-called `` LPR '' : In turn , Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ 14 persons , that 's according to the Security Service of Ukraine .
As UNIAN @ @ @ @ @ of the prisoner swap was held in Donbas on Thursday , April 16 .

It's mainly civilians who have been released, as well as two military and a law enforcement officer.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's Office says 20 Ukrainians held in captivity by Russian-controlled forces in the self-proclaimed "Donetsk and Luhansk People's republics" ("DPR"/"LPR") in Donbas, were released and returned to Ukraine as part of the latest prisoner swap effort today, April 16.
It's mainly civilians who have been released, as well as two military and a law enforcement officer, the Office said on its website on Thursday, having published the relevant list.
Read alsoDonbas prisoner swap kicks off, 19 Ukrainians set to return home
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Ukrainian nationals released from captivity in the so-called "DPR":
1. Alakoz Oleksandr (civilian)
2. Hrynenko Mykola (military)
3. Iliukhin Mykola (civilian)
4. Karas Volodymyr (law enforcement officer)
5. Kostiev Yevhen (civilian)
6. Pomeliaiko Oleksandr (civilian)
7. Sadovskyi Oleksandr (civilian)
8. Siryk Vadym (civilian)
9. Shaidov Viktor (military)
Ukrainian nationals released from captivity in the so-called "LPR":
1. Zheldak Vitaliy (civilian)
2. Mozhaiev Valentyn (civilian)
3. Myronych Serhiy (civilian)
4. Polozov Mykola (civilian)
5. Popova Alevtyna (civilian)
6. Rusynov Serhiy (civilian)
7. Slyvka Ivan (civilian)
8. Slyvka Oleksandr (civilian)
9. Tabachnyi Oleksandr (civilian)
10. Shtyl Oleksandr (civilian)
11. Yakovenko Oleksandr (civilian)
In turn, Ukraine handed over to Russian-controlled forces 14 persons, that's according to the Security Service of Ukraine.
As UNIAN reported earlier, another stage of the prisoner swap was held in Donbas on Thursday, April 16.


unian--2020-04-17--Chornobyl wildfires: combustion products from exclusion zone could not pollute Kyiv air – Kulbida

At the same time , the top expert says no precipitation is expected in Ukraine in the next 10 days .
Director of the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center Mykola Kulbida says combustion products formed in forest fires within the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone could not get to the capital city of Kyiv despite some media reports suggesting the opposite .
`` There were northwest wind gusts .
That is , combustion products from the Exclusion Zone could not get into Kyiv .
Yesterday 's issues were related to a dust storm and the movement of combustion products ( also observed this morning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said in a videotaped statement posted by the State Emergency Service of Ukraine on April 17 .
Kulbida added that there was an increase in wind speeds to 17-22 meters per second yesterday , April 16 .
Max speed was recorded in Zhytomyr and Kyiv regions , in particular , in the north of Kyiv region and part of the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone .
At the same time , the top expert says no precipitation is expected in Ukraine in the next 10 days , except for the westernmost part of the country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is being observed in areas where grass , peat , and forests keep smoldering ( max wind speed will be at 7-12 meters per second ) .
According to Kulbida , non-stop radiation monitoring is carried out at 15 observation points in the Exclusion Zone , as well as at the Hydrometeorological Center 's Main Geophysical Observatory .
In addition to measuring gamma background , the possibility of radioactive elements spilling into atmosphere and falling onto the land surface is also being monitored by radio spectrometry .
`` Among these elements , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recorded , while the level of gamma-ray background , both in the Exclusion Zone and beyond , remained practically unchanged , '' he assured .
Kulbida advised citizens to limit their outdoor activity , since the processes that have been observed in recent days are causing certain discomfort .
`` Therefore , we recommended that you limit your outdoor activity , especially , in the morning .
In the afternoon , as a result of the underlying surface being warmed up , air temperature rises and air mass mixing starts , which reduces @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' he said .

At the same time, the top expert says no precipitation is expected in Ukraine in the next 10 days.
Director of the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center Mykola Kulbida says combustion products formed in forest fires within the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone could not get to the capital city of Kyiv despite some media reports suggesting the opposite.
"There were northwest wind gusts. That is, combustion products from the Exclusion Zone could not get into Kyiv. Yesterday's issues were related to a dust storm and the movement of combustion products (also observed this morning) from Zhytomyr region," he said in a videotaped statement posted by the State Emergency Service of Ukraine on April 17.
Kulbida added that there was an increase in wind speeds to 17-22 meters per second yesterday, April 16. Max speed was recorded in Zhytomyr and Kyiv regions, in particular, in the north of Kyiv region and part of the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone.
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At the same time, the top expert says no precipitation is expected in Ukraine in the next 10 days, except for the westernmost part of the country. No significant increase in wind speeds is being observed in areas where grass, peat, and forests keep smoldering (max wind speed will be at 7-12 meters per second).
Read alsoNew forest fire outbreaks reported in Chornobyl zone (Photo, video)
According to Kulbida, non-stop radiation monitoring is carried out at 15 observation points in the Exclusion Zone, as well as at the Hydrometeorological Center's Main Geophysical Observatory. In addition to measuring gamma background, the possibility of radioactive elements spilling into atmosphere and falling onto the land surface is also being monitored by radio spectrometry.
"Among these elements, a microscopic increase in concentration of cesium-137 was recorded, while the level of gamma-ray background, both in the Exclusion Zone and beyond, remained practically unchanged," he assured.
Kulbida advised citizens to limit their outdoor activity, since the processes that have been observed in recent days are causing certain discomfort.
"Therefore, we recommended that you limit your outdoor activity, especially, in the morning. In the afternoon, as a result of the underlying surface being warmed up, air temperature rises and air mass mixing starts, which reduces concentration of harmful substances in the air," he said.


unian--2020-04-17--Reuters: Ukrainian artists live-stream from their studios during lockdown

The online auction is part of a new `` Stay Art Home '' scheme set up to raise cash for Ukraine 's main children 's hospital during the coronavirus lockdown .
Ukrainian brothers Nikita and Egor Zigura work on their sculpture of a giant fingerprint as art enthusiasts look on via a live-streaming internet link and make bids for the developing work .
The online auction is part of a new `` Stay Art Home '' scheme set up to raise cash for Ukraine 's main children 's hospital during the coronavirus lockdown , as reported by Reuters .
Project @ @ @ @ @ @ @ musicians and other public figures appearing on social media around the world to raise money and spirits as the pandemic spread .
But many artists had stayed offline , behind closed doors in their studios , he told Reuters .
Read alsoPainting stolen by Nazis from Ukraine during WW2 to be returned from U.S. '' We hope that our initiative will be useful ... by gathering money for charity and discovering new opportunities for artists , '' he added .
Dozens of other artists have joined the brothers in filming themselves making paintings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comments and bids from people watching online .
Auctions take place every two days .
`` We can help people by doing what we normally do , without leaving the studio , '' Egor Zigura said .
The Zigura brothers ' finished work 'Imprint ' ended up going for 13,500 hryvnia ( around $ 500 ) .
`` It is very cool when Ukrainian artists join such initiatives during such tough times .
And for that reason , I decided to support them , '' said the winning bidder Ihor Chernysh .

The online auction is part of a new "Stay Art Home" scheme set up to raise cash for Ukraine's main children's hospital during the coronavirus lockdown.
Ukrainian brothers Nikita and Egor Zigura work on their sculpture of a giant fingerprint as art enthusiasts look on via a live-streaming internet link and make bids for the developing work.
The online auction is part of a new "Stay Art Home" scheme set up to raise cash for Ukraine's main children's hospital during the coronavirus lockdown, as reported by Reuters.
Project co-founder Ihor Krivolapov said he had seen musicians and other public figures appearing on social media around the world to raise money and spirits as the pandemic spread.
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But many artists had stayed offline, behind closed doors in their studios, he told Reuters.
Read alsoPainting stolen by Nazis from Ukraine during WW2 to be returned from U.S.
"We hope that our initiative will be useful... by gathering money for charity and discovering new opportunities for artists," he added.
Dozens of other artists have joined the brothers in filming themselves making paintings, sculptures and other works while receiving comments and bids from people watching online. Auctions take place every two days.
"We can help people by doing what we normally do, without leaving the studio," Egor Zigura said.
The Zigura brothers' finished work 'Imprint' ended up going for 13,500 hryvnia (around $500).
"It is very cool when Ukrainian artists join such initiatives during such tough times. And for that reason, I decided to support them," said the winning bidder Ihor Chernysh.


unian--2020-04-17--UOC-MP's Kyiv Theological Academy reports 19 coronavirus cases

All these 19 people are now on self-isolation in the academy 's dormitory under the supervision of doctors .
Kyiv Theological Academy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate ( UOC-MP ) has reported 19 laboratory-confirmed cases of the COVID-19 coronavirus .
According to the order of Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko , PCR testing for COVID-19 was carried out in the Academy 's dormitories on April 14 .
`` At about 21:00 on April 16 , the Academy was informed from Health Ministry 's Kyiv City Laboratory Center that , according to the test results , 19 people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ received laboratory confirmation of coronavirus , '' the academy wrote on Facebook .
Read alsoUkraine 's coronavirus pace rises with 501 new cases reported in past 24 hours It is noted the written confirmation is expected to be released today , April 17 .
`` All these 19 people are now in self-isolation in the academy 's dormitory under the supervision of doctors , '' the report says .
In addition , PCR testing was carried out at the Academy on April 15 , but the results have not come back .
*** @ @ @ @ @ @ @ educational institution of the UOC-MP , which provides training for clergy , teachers of theological educational institutions , and church scholars .
The academy trains specialists of educational qualification level : candidate of theology , master of theology .

All these 19 people are now on self-isolation in the academy's dormitory under the supervision of doctors.
Kyiv Theological Academy of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (UOC-MP) has reported 19 laboratory-confirmed cases of the COVID-19 coronavirus.
According to the order of Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko, PCR testing for COVID-19 was carried out in the Academy's dormitories on April 14.
"At about 21:00 on April 16, the Academy was informed from Health Ministry's Kyiv City Laboratory Center that, according to the test results, 19 people (three teachers and 16 students) received laboratory confirmation of coronavirus," the academy wrote on Facebook.
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Read alsoUkraine's coronavirus pace rises with 501 new cases reported in past 24 hours
It is noted the written confirmation is expected to be released today, April 17. "All these 19 people are now in self-isolation in the academy's dormitory under the supervision of doctors," the report says.
In addition, PCR testing was carried out at the Academy on April 15, but the results have not come back.
*** Kyiv Theological Academy is the higher theological educational institution of the UOC-MP, which provides training for clergy, teachers of theological educational institutions, and church scholars. The academy trains specialists of educational qualification level: candidate of theology, master of theology.


unian--2020-04-17--Ukrainian military robot converted to patrol streets amid quarantine

Technology is aimed to avoid direct contact between law enforcers and civilians under pandemic conditions and beyond .
Zaporizhia-based defense @ @ @ @ @ robotic platform , designed for frontline reconnaissance missions , into a police robot .
The @ @ @ @ @ enforcers to remotely patrol the streets during a pandemic and beyond , avoiding direct communication @ @ @ @ @ Defense Express reports .
The operator is able to control the machine directly from the @ @ @ @ @ a mobile application .
Over long distances , commands are sent using the 3G / @ @ @ @ @ 's computer set ( including voice commands ) .
The robot is also capable of @ @ @ @ @ , automatically stopping before any obstacles on the route .
Among the police cop 's @ @ @ @ @ tear gas cylinder , a stroboscope light with a siren , a speaker and a @ @ @ @ @ As UNIAN reported earlier , Polish company WB Electronics introduced its FlyEye 3.0 mini UAV @ @ @ @ @ track citizens told to stay in quarantine .

Technology is aimed to avoid direct contact between law enforcers and civilians under pandemic conditions and beyond.
Zaporizhia-based defense engineers have converted the Scorpion robotic platform, designed for frontline reconnaissance missions, into a police robot.
The upgraded technology will allow law enforcers to remotely patrol the streets during a pandemic and beyond, avoiding direct communication between policemen and civilians, Defense Express reports.
The operator is able to control the machine directly from the platform or remotely, via a mobile application.
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Read alsoUkrainian kamikaze drone passes another testing stage (Video)
Over long distances, commands are sent using the 3G / LTE network from the operator's computer set (including voice commands).
The robot is also capable of moving along a pre-designated route, automatically stopping before any obstacles on the route.
Among the police cop's features is a remotely controlled tear gas cylinder, a stroboscope light with a siren, a speaker and a microphone, and others.
As UNIAN reported earlier, Polish company WB Electronics introduced its FlyEye 3.0 mini UAV to help the Polish government track citizens told to stay in quarantine.


unian--2020-04-17--Analysts raise Ukraine 2019/20 soybean export forecast by 6.3% – media

The soybean harvest fell by around 9 % in 2019 to 4.35 million tonnes .
APK-Inform agriculture consultancy on Thursday @ @ @ @ @ exports from Ukraine in the 2019/20 season by 6.3 % to 2.55 million tonnes .
@ @ @ @ @ exports by 8 % , to almost US $ 4 bln in Jan-Feb It also @ @ @ @ @ consumption and ending stocks of soybeans , the consultancy said in a report , Successful @ @ @ @ @ Reuters .
The soybean harvest fell by around 9 % in 2019 to 4.35 million @ @ @ @ @ 2.027 million tonnes of soybean as of April 10 compared with 1.106 million tonnes by @ @ @ @ @ .

The soybean harvest fell by around 9% in 2019 to 4.35 million tonnes.
APK-Inform agriculture consultancy on Thursday increased its forecast for soybean exports from Ukraine in the 2019/20 season by 6.3% to 2.55 million tonnes.
Read alsoUkraine boosts farm produce exports by 8%, to almost US$4 bln in Jan-Feb
It also cut its forecast for domestic consumption and ending stocks of soybeans, the consultancy said in a report, Successful Farming reported with reference to Reuters.
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The soybean harvest fell by around 9% in 2019 to 4.35 million tonnes.
Ukraine had exported 2.027 million tonnes of soybean as of April 10 compared with 1.106 million tonnes by the same point last season.


unian--2020-04-17--Mayor Klitschko: Number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Kyiv rises to 705

Another seven cases have been recorded in the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery .
Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko has said the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the city rose to 705 as of April 17 .
`` Another 61 Kyiv residents contracted the disease in the past day , including seven doctors .
As of today , the capital city has as many as 705 confirmed COVID-19 cases , '' he said at a briefing on April 17 , 2020 , according to an UNIAN correspondent .
According to Klitschko , 31 women aged 20 to 97 , 28 men aged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boys are among those infected .
Moreover , another seven cases have been recorded in the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery .
`` Sixteen patients have been hospitalized , while others were self-isolating , undergoing treatment at home under the supervision of doctors .
As of today , 30 people have recovered from coronavirus in the capital city , '' the mayor said .
Klitschko added 40 people with increased body temperature had been denied entry to the city at checkpoints set up on major highways around the capital in the past day .
Citizens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call up their family doctor , and isolate at home .

Another seven cases have been recorded in the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery.
Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko has said the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the city rose to 705 as of April 17.
"Another 61 Kyiv residents contracted the disease in the past day, including seven doctors. As of today, the capital city has as many as 705 confirmed COVID-19 cases," he said at a briefing on April 17, 2020, according to an UNIAN correspondent.
According to Klitschko, 31 women aged 20 to 97, 28 men aged 19 to 71, and two two-year-old boys are among those infected.
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Read also"Red level" of air pollution prevails in Kyiv Friday morning (Photo)
Moreover, another seven cases have been recorded in the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery.
"Sixteen patients have been hospitalized, while others were self-isolating, undergoing treatment at home under the supervision of doctors. As of today, 30 people have recovered from coronavirus in the capital city," the mayor said.
Klitschko added 40 people with increased body temperature had been denied entry to the city at checkpoints set up on major highways around the capital in the past day. Citizens were advised to head back home, call up their family doctor, and isolate at home.


unian--2020-04-17--Ukraine sees foodstuff price hikes in Q1

However , price of eggs dropped by 25.2 % .
Ukraine 's Ministry for Development of Economy , Trade and Agriculture says prices of foods and non-alcoholic beverages in January-March 2020 ( Q1 ) grew by 2.6 % , while those of alcoholic beverages and tobacco rose by 12.3 % year-over-year ( y-o-y ) .
In particular , bread went up in price by 8.2 % , pasta by 2.6 % , meat by 2.4 % , fish by 2.7 % , and sugar by 1.6 % , according to the ministry 's data of consumer price index monitoring .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of milk increased by 5.9 % , while those of cheese , cottage cheese , and creamery butter climbed by 6.1 % each .
Fruit prices soared by 13.3 % , whereas vegetable prices tumbled by almost 13 % .
Vegetable oil fell in price by 2 % , the report said .
Eggs in Q1 dropped in price the most , that is by 25.2 % .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Ukrainian Minister for Development of Economy , Trade and Agriculture Ihor Petrashko had said the Cabinet of Ministers planned to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ food staples to ensure food security in the country amid the coronavirus quarantine .
The list includes flour , sugar , pasta , milk , eggs , bread , poultry , creamery butter , buckwheat , and mineral water .

Ukraine sees foodstuff price hikes in Q1
13:40, 17.04.20 1964
However, price of eggs dropped by 25.2%.
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unian--2020-04-17--Ukraine's OCU, UGCC call on believers to celebrate Easter at home

Epifaniy and Sviatoslav call on parishioners to `` pray online '' .
Metropolitan of Kyiv and All Ukraine , Primate @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine ( OCU ) Epifaniy ( Epiphanius ) and Major Archbishop of the Ukrainian Greek @ @ @ @ @ Sviatoslav have called on believers to celebrate Easter at home and not expose themselves and @ @ @ @ @ We asked all our believers to celebrate this Easter at home .
And we will @ @ @ @ @ Easter together but without endangering your health and life .
Therefore , we will pray @ @ @ @ @ We will bless Easter baskets while you 're home , '' Sviatoslav said at a @ @ @ @ @ Vladu [ Right to Power ] on Thursday .
`` Of course , we will @ @ @ @ @ under special conditions .
But we see that our believers have responded to the church @ @ @ @ @ home .
At the latest service in Kyiv 's St. Michael 's Golden-Domed Monastery , @ @ @ @ @ to our call and are joining prayers online , '' Epifaniy said .

Epifaniy and Sviatoslav call on parishioners to "pray online".
Metropolitan of Kyiv and All Ukraine, Primate of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) Epifaniy (Epiphanius) and Major Archbishop of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (UGCC) Sviatoslav have called on believers to celebrate Easter at home and not expose themselves and relatives to danger.
"We asked all our believers to celebrate this Easter at home. And we will be able to rejoice this Easter together but without endangering your health and life. Therefore, we will pray together, pray online. We will bless Easter baskets while you're home," Sviatoslav said at a TV panel show Pravo na Vladu [Right to Power] on Thursday.
Read alsoEastern Christians celebrate Palm Sunday, western Christians observe Easter on April 12
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"Of course, we will celebrate the Resurrection of Christ under special conditions. But we see that our believers have responded to the church's call to stay at home. At the latest service in Kyiv's St. Michael's Golden-Domed Monastery, we saw that people responded to our call and are joining prayers online," Epifaniy said.


unian--2020-04-17--U.S. expands aid to Ukraine to US$9.1 mln to fight COVID-19

Funds will be allocated to Ukraine through the United States Agency for International Development ( USAID ) .
The United @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine to US $ 9.1 million to tackle the COVID-19 coronavirus spread .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ laboratory systems , identifying the disease , providing technical support in responding to and communicating @ @ @ @ @ of COVID-19 .
In addition , assistance will help support measures for the prevention and @ @ @ @ @ , measures to ensure water supply , sanitation and hygiene for the most vulnerable segments @ @ @ @ @ and Luhansk regions , '' the Embassy of Ukraine in the USA wrote on Facebook @ @ @ @ @ on Russia to provide treatment to Ukrainian prisoners , population of occupied areas amid pandemic @ @ @ @ @ be allocated to Ukraine through the United States Agency for International Development ( USAID ) @

U.S. expands aid to Ukraine to US$9.1 mln to fight COVID-19
13:00, 17.04.20 5971
Funds will be allocated to Ukraine through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
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unian--2020-04-17--Ukrainian hospitals fully equipped with ventilators – health minister

Since March 1 , 176 ventilators have been additionally purchased and delivered to hospitals where COVID-19 patients are treated .
Ukrainian Health Minister Maksym Stepanov says the demand for lung ventilators has been fully covered in Ukrainian hospitals as of today .
The top health official says , since March 1 , a total of 176 ventilators have been additionally purchased and delivered to hospitals where COVID-19 patients are hospitalized .
`` This number is constantly growing .
But today we are fully covered with ventilators , '' he said during an online briefing , according to an UNIAN correspondent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Decision to lift COVID-19 quarantine to be considered closer to April 24 As UNIAN reported earlier , on March 27 , Ukraine 's Deputy Health Minister and Chief Medical Officer Viktor Liashko said there were about 350 ventilators in hospitals that receive COVID-19 patients first , as well as almost 3,500 in re-profiled hospitals .
The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in Ukraine stood at 4,662 as of Friday morning .
Of them , 501 cases were reported in the past 24 hours .
A total of 125 COVID-19 deaths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Some 246 patients have recovered .

Since March 1, 176 ventilators have been additionally purchased and delivered to hospitals where COVID-19 patients are treated.
Ukrainian Health Minister Maksym Stepanov says the demand for lung ventilators has been fully covered in Ukrainian hospitals as of today.
The top health official says, since March 1, a total of 176 ventilators have been additionally purchased and delivered to hospitals where COVID-19 patients are hospitalized.
"This number is constantly growing. But today we are fully covered with ventilators," he said during an online briefing, according to an UNIAN correspondent.
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Read alsoUkraine's health ministry: Decision to lift COVID-19 quarantine to be considered closer to April 24
As UNIAN reported earlier, on March 27, Ukraine's Deputy Health Minister and Chief Medical Officer Viktor Liashko said there were about 350 ventilators in hospitals that receive COVID-19 patients first, as well as almost 3,500 in re-profiled hospitals.
The number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in Ukraine stood at 4,662 as of Friday morning. Of them, 501 cases were reported in the past 24 hours. A total of 125 COVID-19 deaths have already been recorded in the country. Some 246 patients have recovered.


unian--2020-04-17--Ukraine's large-, medium-sized enterprises post US$15.5 bln in pre-tax profit in 2019

Financial performance of Ukraine 's profitable enterprises grew by 10 % , to UAH 596.284 billion ( US $ 21.9 billion ) .
Large- and medium-sized enterprises in Ukraine received UAH 422.235 billion , or US $ 15.5 billion , in profit before tax in 2019 , which was 26 % up from the figure reported in 2018 .
Financial performance of Ukraine 's profitable enterprises grew by 10 % , to UAH 596.284 billion ( US $ 21.9 billion ) , while that of loss-making companies shrank by 15 % over the year , to minus UAH 174.050 billion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to the Ukrainian State Statistics Service website .
Moreover , the share of unprofitable Ukrainian enterprises remained at 21.7 % reported a year earlier .
Read alsoUkraine 's Cabinet announced refinanced loans to businesses at zero rate The State Statistics Service said the report does not include data from Russian-occupied areas in Crimea , Sevastopol and parts of Luhansk and Donetsk regions .
As UNIAN reported earlier , Ukraine 's large- and medium-sized enterprises in 2018 boosted their profit before tax by 25 % , to UAH 335 billion ( US $ @ @ @ @

Ukraine's large-, medium-sized enterprises post US$15.5 bln in pre-tax profit in 2019
12:20, 17.04.20 641
Financial performance of Ukraine's profitable enterprises grew by 10%, to UAH 596.284 billion (US$21.9 billion).
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unian--2020-04-17--U.S. accuses Russia of breaching treaties on nuclear, chemical, biological weapons

The U.S. believes Russia continues to develop chemical weapons , concealing data on CW stocks , as well as maintains an offensive bacteriological weapons program .
Russia has been violating bilateral and international agreements restricting nuclear tests and on nuclear nonproliferation , as well as other agreements on chemical and biological weapons , the U.S. Department of State reported .
`` The United States has determined that in 2019 , the Russian Federation continued to be in violation of its obligations under Articles I , IV , and VI of the INF Treaty not to possess , produce , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ range capability of 500 kilometers to 5,500 kilometers , or to possess or produce launchers of such missiles , '' reads the executive summary of findings on adherence to and compliance with arms control , nonproliferation , and disarmament agreements and commitments , drawn up by the U.S. Department of State , according to Guildhall .
The Russian GLCM in question is the SSC-8 SCREWDRIVER , which the United States assesses to be designated by Russia as the 9M729 , according to the report .
Read alsoThink tank : La Stampa 's findings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' mission in Italy confirmed The U.S. also assesses that Russia has conducted nuclear weapons-related experiments that have created nuclear yield , which raises compliance concerns with Russia 's obligations under the Treaty on the Limitation of Underground Nuclear Weapon Tests .
At the same time , the U.S. believes Russia continues to develop chemical weapons , concealing data on CW stocks .
`` The United States certifies that Russia is in non-compliance with the CWC [ Chemical Weapons Convention ] for its use of a military grade nerve agent on March 4 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UK soil , '' the report reads , referring to a poisoning of former GRU spy Yuriy Skripal and his daughter .
`` This attack indicates Russian retains an undeclared chemical weapons program , '' the summary reads .
Neither can the United States certify that Russia has met its obligations for complete declarations of its CW production facilities , CW development facilities ; and CW stockpiles .
Furthermore , the United States has concerns that Russia ’ s pharmaceutical-based agents program is for offensive purposes .
Available information does not allow the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Federation has fulfilled its obligation under Article II of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development , Production and Stockpiling of Bacteriological ( Biological ) and Toxin Weapons and on their Destruction ( BWC ) to destroy or to divert to peaceful purposes bacteriological weapons items specified under Article I of its past BW program .
Historically , the issue of compliance by Russia with the BWC has been of concern for many years .
Though the assessments have changed over time , as noted in the 2005 report , the United @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BW program in violation of Article I of the Convention .
The United States continues to have concerns about Russian activities .

The U.S. believes Russia continues to develop chemical weapons, concealing data on CW stocks, as well as maintains an offensive bacteriological weapons program.
Russia has been violating bilateral and international agreements restricting nuclear tests and on nuclear nonproliferation, as well as other agreements on chemical and biological weapons, the U.S. Department of State reported.
"The United States has determined that in 2019, the Russian Federation continued to be in violation of its obligations under Articles I, IV, and VI of the INF Treaty not to possess, produce, or flight-test a ground-launched cruise missile with a range capability of 500 kilometers to 5,500 kilometers, or to possess or produce launchers of such missiles," reads the executive summary of findings on adherence to and compliance with arms control, nonproliferation, and disarmament agreements and commitments, drawn up by the U.S. Department of State, according to Guildhall.
The Russian GLCM in question is the SSC-8 SCREWDRIVER, which the United States assesses to be designated by Russia as the 9M729, according to the report.
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Read alsoThink tank: La Stampa's findings on intel-gathering nature of Russian "aid" mission in Italy confirmed
The U.S. also assesses that Russia has conducted nuclear weapons-related experiments that have created nuclear yield, which raises compliance concerns with Russia's obligations under the Treaty on the Limitation of Underground Nuclear Weapon Tests.
At the same time, the U.S. believes Russia continues to develop chemical weapons, concealing data on CW stocks.
"The United States certifies that Russia is in non-compliance with the CWC [Chemical Weapons Convention] for its use of a military grade nerve agent on March 4, 2018 in an assassination attempt on UK soil," the report reads, referring to a poisoning of former GRU spy Yuriy Skripal and his daughter.
"This attack indicates Russian retains an undeclared chemical weapons program," the summary reads.
Neither can the United States certify that Russia has met its obligations for complete declarations of its CW production facilities, CW development facilities; and CW stockpiles. Furthermore, the United States has concerns that Russia’s pharmaceutical-based agents program is for offensive purposes.
Available information does not allow the United States to conclude that the Russian Federation has fulfilled its obligation under Article II of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production and Stockpiling of Bacteriological (Biological) and Toxin Weapons and on their Destruction (BWC) to destroy or to divert to peaceful purposes bacteriological weapons items specified under Article I of its past BW program.
Historically, the issue of compliance by Russia with the BWC has been of concern for many years. Though the assessments have changed over time, as noted in the 2005 report, the United States assessed that Russia maintained an offensive BW program in violation of Article I of the Convention. The United States continues to have concerns about Russian activities.


unian--2020-04-17--Ukrainians released from Donbas captivity put in 14-day quarantine at guarded location

The latest prisoner exchange effort between Ukraine and Russian-controlled forces in Donbas took places in two stages .
Minister for Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories Oleksiy Reznikov has said 20 people who returned to Ukraine as a result of the prisoner swap on April 16 , as well as four people who refused to be transferred to the temporarily occupied territory despite being put on swap lists , were sent for a 14-day observation ( quarantine ) to a `` guarded location . ''
`` All people who were handed over to Ukraine , in addition to the four citizens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine ] , have been sent to undergo a 14-day observation in a secure location , with normal conditions , with medical examinations , coronavirus testing , and all necessities provided for , including food , clothing , and channels of communications with their families , '' the minister said , according to the Ukrainian news outlet Obozrevatel .
As UNIAN reported , the latest prisoner exchange effort between Ukraine and Russian-controlled forces in Donbas on April 16 took place in two stages .
Twenty Ukrainian citizens were released by Russia-controlled illegal armed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ civilians , as well as two military servicemen and a law enforcement officer .

The latest prisoner exchange effort between Ukraine and Russian-controlled forces in Donbas took places in two stages.
Minister for Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories Oleksiy Reznikov has said 20 people who returned to Ukraine as a result of the prisoner swap on April 16, as well as four people who refused to be transferred to the temporarily occupied territory despite being put on swap lists, were sent for a 14-day observation (quarantine) to a "guarded location."
"All people who were handed over to Ukraine, in addition to the four citizens who refused to be transferred [from Ukraine], have been sent to undergo a 14-day observation in a secure location, with normal conditions, with medical examinations, coronavirus testing, and all necessities provided for, including food, clothing, and channels of communications with their families," the minister said, according to the Ukrainian news outlet Obozrevatel.
Read alsoMinister explains low number of captured troops in Donbas swap lists
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As UNIAN reported, the latest prisoner exchange effort between Ukraine and Russian-controlled forces in Donbas on April 16 took place in two stages. Twenty Ukrainian citizens were released by Russia-controlled illegal armed formations. Among those released were mainly civilians, as well as two military servicemen and a law enforcement officer.


unian--2020-04-17--Police not to allow provocations, crowds outside churches during Easter services – minister's adviso

Police not to allow provocations, crowds outside churches during Easter services – minister's advisor

During services , only clerics and technical staff providing for live TV coverage will be allowed inside temples .
The National Police will not allow provocations and mass gatherings outside churches during religious services on Easter this Sunday , says Yuriy Tandit , advisor to the minister of internal affairs .
During services , no more than 10 persons will be allowed inside temples – this is clerics and technical staff providing for live TV coverage .
Parishioners – by one in smaller churches and in groups of no more than two people in bigger ones – will be allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The Ministry of Internal Affairs is taking unprecedented measures to protect the health of our citizens .
Over the past two weeks , we , along with the head of the National Police , have held three meetings with the All-Ukrainian Council of Churches .
Also , we are in constant contact with priests of various denominations , having reached agreements on how to conduct Easter services under quarantine conditions , '' the press service of the interior ministry quotes Tandit as saying .
Read alsoSome 85 % of Ukrainians do not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – poll The advisor added that all those attending churches must wear protective .
Tandit also noted that law enforcement will not allow crowds outside temples .
“ The police , within the framework of the agreements and pursuant to the decision of the Cabinet of Ministers to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Ukraine in the event of mass gatherings forming outside churches , will act in several stages .
The first stage is public dialogue .
In case of repeated violations , the police will draw up administrative protocols .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mass events outside parishes , '' said Tandit .

During services, only clerics and technical staff providing for live TV coverage will be allowed inside temples.
The National Police will not allow provocations and mass gatherings outside churches during religious services on Easter this Sunday, says Yuriy Tandit, advisor to the minister of internal affairs.
During services, no more than 10 persons will be allowed inside temples – this is clerics and technical staff providing for live TV coverage.
Parishioners – by one in smaller churches and in groups of no more than two people in bigger ones – will be allowed to come inside after the service.
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"The Ministry of Internal Affairs is taking unprecedented measures to protect the health of our citizens. Over the past two weeks, we, along with the head of the National Police, have held three meetings with the All-Ukrainian Council of Churches. Also, we are in constant contact with priests of various denominations, having reached agreements on how to conduct Easter services under quarantine conditions," the press service of the interior ministry quotes Tandit as saying.
Read alsoSome 85% of Ukrainians do not plan to go to church on Easter – poll
The advisor added that all those attending churches must wear protective.
Tandit also noted that law enforcement will not allow crowds outside temples.
“The police, within the framework of the agreements and pursuant to the decision of the Cabinet of Ministers to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Ukraine in the event of mass gatherings forming outside churches, will act in several stages. The first stage is public dialogue. In case of repeated violations, the police will draw up administrative protocols. We will not allow provocateurs to set up mass events outside parishes," said Tandit.