unian--2020-09-03--Analysts post projections for autumn's hryvnia rate

The hryvnia could collapse sharply in case of a political crisis or another lockdown due to the coronavirus .
Analysts predict a gradual devaluation of the hryvnia , Ukraine 's national currency , against the U.S. dollar in autumn .
The exchange rate is expected to range from UAH 27 to UAH 30 per dollar , as reported by the RBC Ukraine news agency .
According to the Eavex Capital Investment Company , the forecast corridor for the hryvnia rate to the U.S. currency for autumn will be from UAH 27.1 to UAH 28.4 .
Read alsoFinance minister sees no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 30 per dollar '' Considering the positive trend in the current account of Ukraine 's balance of payments , namely , a record surplus of US $ 4.3 billion in the second quarter , it is quite possible to expect support for the hryvnia exchange rate from exporters , '' said Dmytro Churyn , head of the analytical department at Eavex Capital .
However , analysts with the ICU Group expect slight hryvnia devaluation in autumn with the exchange rate to the dollar at UAH 29-30 by the end of the year .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ macroeconomic research department , Serhiy Nikolaichuk , such expectations are associated with the projected purchases of imported products with the start of a new business season and the restoration of stocks in the context of normalization of supply logistics .
`` Growth in household income and retail trade gives every reason to expect a surge in consumer imports in the near future .
Also , the expected decline in prices for iron ore and weak demand in the European market for metal products are likely to affect export earnings , '' Nikolaichuk said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , so far there is no reason for a sudden devaluation in the autumn of 2020 .
The hryvnia could collapse sharply in case of a political crisis or another lockdown due to the coronavirus .
The International Monetary Fund ( IMF ) predicts an exchange rate at UAH 30 per dollar for 2020 .

Analysts post projections for autumn's hryvnia rate
16:05, 03.09.20 7162
The hryvnia could collapse sharply in case of a political crisis or another lockdown due to the coronavirus.
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unian--2020-09-03--Ukrainian artists rally in Kyiv demanding fair quarantine rules for showbiz

They claim injustice as some foreign artists are allowed to perform amid lockdown imposed on Ukrainian event organizers dealing with national stars .
Ukrainian artists have staged a rally outside the Headquarters of the Cabinet of Ministers on Thursday , September 3 .
The video of preparations for the rally was posted on the Kyiv Now Telegram channel .
Artists brought along large desks and speakers , and were seen holding posters with the slogans : `` Equal rights for concert organizers , '' etc .
Read alsoHealth minister slams Odesa authorities over massive festivities amid COVID-19 spike ( Photo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some foreign artists are allowed to perform amid lockdown imposed on Ukrainian event organizers dealing with national stars .
They say the music industry is suffering losses and rapidly dying out .
• The adaptive quarantine was introduced on August 1 .
Ukrainian regions were split into the red , green , orange zones depending on hospital load , the average number of PCR and ELISA tests , the ascertainment rate of COVID-19 , and daily spread dynamics .
• Quarantine-related curbs differ in each zone .
The mildest ones are in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the red zone have to introduce the toughest restrictive measures .
• Updated quarantine zoning became effective in Ukraine on August 17 .
Kyiv was included in the yellow zone .
• On August 26 , the Cabinet of Ministers extended the adaptive quarantine until November 1 .

They claim injustice as some foreign artists are allowed to perform amid lockdown imposed on Ukrainian event organizers dealing with national stars.
Ukrainian artists have staged a rally outside the Headquarters of the Cabinet of Ministers on Thursday, September 3.
The video of preparations for the rally was posted on the Kyiv Now Telegram channel.
Artists brought along large desks and speakers, and were seen holding posters with the slogans: "Equal rights for concert organizers," etc.
Видео дня
Read alsoHealth minister slams Odesa authorities over massive festivities amid COVID-19 spike (Photo, video)They claim injustice as some foreign artists are allowed to perform amid lockdown imposed on Ukrainian event organizers dealing with national stars.
They say the music industry is suffering losses and rapidly dying out.
Quarantine in Ukraine: background


unian--2020-09-03--Lukashenko accuses Ukraine of interfering in Belarus' internal affairs

He has also claimed Poland , Lithuania , and the Czech Republic 's interference .
President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus has accused Ukraine , Poland , Lithuania , and the Czech Republic of meddling in the country 's internal affairs .
According to him , the situation in Belarus is greatly influenced by foreign interference in domestic affairs of the country and external control over street protests , BelTA reported .
Read alsoLukashenko mulled union state with Ukraine – Tusk '' It originates from Poland , Czechia , Lithuania , and Ukraine , which is most disturbing to us .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergei Lavrov , who openly stated what is going on at the border , although he is a very restrained and delicate person in this regard .
We respond to any negative actions targeting Belarus .
To prevent the start of some kind of fire in Minsk is the most important thing to us .
Because it always happens like that : things start in the capital city before spreading across the entire country , '' the Belarusian president said as he authorized the appointment of new heads of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gomel Oblast on September 3 .
Lukashenko added Belarus had found itself facing external aggression one-on-one and thanked the Russian side for support .
Otherwise , Belarus would have had a difficult time , he believes .
`` Mistakes can not be allowed to happen .
But you should clearly understand there is a line nobody is allowed to cross .
If it happens , of course , we will respond in strict compliance with the law .
This is why I want you to make people aware of it .
They should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There is no leniency here .
The country is working although many would like us to collapse , particularly our neighbors , '' the Belarusian leader said .
• On August 9 , presidential elections were held in Belarus .
The country 's Central Election Commission announced the final election results .
In particular , 80.1 % of voters supported incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko , 10.1 % voted for Svetlana Tikhanovskaya , 1.67 % for Anna Kanopatskaya , 1.2 % for Andrey Dmitriev , and 1.14 % for Sergei Cherechnya .
Some 4.59 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thousands of residents of Belarus took to the streets to protest what they believe is a rigged vote count .
Riot police violently cracked down on protesters .
• Belarus ' Ministry of Internal Affairs said about 7,000 protesters had been detained in different cities since August 9 .
On the evening of August 13 , the authorities started to release detainees .
• On August 14 , the European Union announced it did not recognize the outcome of the presidential elections in Belarus and on August 19 leaders reportedly agreed on sanctions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ violence against protesters .
• The March of Freedom , the largest protest in the history of Belarus , took place on August 16 in Minsk .
Hundreds of thousands of people joined in .
• On August 20 , the Prosecutor General 's Office opened a criminal probe into the attempt by the opposition to `` seize power . ''
• Lukashenko has repeatedly claimed `` foreign interference '' in the election and the external efforts to foment protests .
He spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin who had promised him comprehensive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MinisterViktor Khrenin has warned of the possible use of army to disperse protesters rallying under the flags he claims were once used by Nazi troops .
• Ukraine 's Foreign Ministry said it was freezing all contacts with Belarus amid the moves and statements by the Belarusian side .

He has also claimed Poland, Lithuania, and the Czech Republic's interference.
President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus has accused Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, and the Czech Republic of meddling in the country's internal affairs.
According to him, the situation in Belarus is greatly influenced by foreign interference in domestic affairs of the country and external control over street protests, BelTA reported.
Read alsoLukashenko mulled union state with Ukraine – Tusk"It originates from Poland, Czechia, Lithuania, and Ukraine, which is most disturbing to us. Yesterday you heard the statement by Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergei Lavrov, who openly stated what is going on at the border, although he is a very restrained and delicate person in this regard. We respond to any negative actions targeting Belarus. To prevent the start of some kind of fire in Minsk is the most important thing to us. Because it always happens like that: things start in the capital city before spreading across the entire country," the Belarusian president said as he authorized the appointment of new heads of municipal executive bodies in several districts of Gomel Oblast on September 3.
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Lukashenko added Belarus had found itself facing external aggression one-on-one and thanked the Russian side for support. Otherwise, Belarus would have had a difficult time, he believes.
"Mistakes cannot be allowed to happen. But you should clearly understand there is a line nobody is allowed to cross. If it happens, of course, we will respond in strict compliance with the law. This is why I want you to make people aware of it. They should not condemn me for some leniency. There is no leniency here. The country is working although many would like us to collapse, particularly our neighbors," the Belarusian leader said.
Belarus protests: background


unian--2020-09-03--Central bank keeps key rate at 6%

Central bank keeps key rate at 6%

Further monetary policy will depend on COVID-19 developments .
The National Bank 's Board on Thursday , September 3 , decided to leave its key policy rate unchanged , at 6 % per annum .
As before , a longer-lasting coronavirus pandemic , the further spread of the disease , and stricter quarantine measures remain the key risks to macrofinancial stability , reads the NBU report released on its website .
Coronavirus and its consequences for the country Given the balance of risks and the steady trend towards recovery in consumer demand , the NBU Board kept the key policy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The fact that the key policy rate is being kept below its neutral level shows that monetary policy is expansionary , '' NBU Governor Kyrylo Shevchenko told a Kyiv briefing .
`` The policy also leaves enough room for further interest rate cuts in the economy . ''
It is noted that previous key policy rate cuts are continuing to be transmitted to market rates .
More specifically , interest rates on hryvnia domestic government debt securities and hryvnia deposits are at record lows .
Loan rates are also continuing to fall .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ mainly depend on how the COVID-19 pandemic develops .
`` Under current circumstances , the key policy rate of 6 % is aimed at keeping the balance between maintaining moderate inflation and stimulating the economy .
However , if the adverse impact of the coronavirus pandemic on domestic demand and business activity increases , the NBU will be ready to give the economy additional impetus for growth .
Conversely , the NBU could also deploy monetary policy tools to respond to the likely increase in inflation risks in 2021 , '' the central @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the NBU Board ’ s decisions remains that Ukraine will continue to cooperate with the IMF .
Cooperation with the IMF `` is important not only in terms of financing the state budget deficit , but also from the perspective of receiving support from other international partners and investors .
Funds from these sources will go to finance anti-coronavirus measures and infrastructure projects , which will help jump-start the still weak investment activity . ''
On June 12 , the NBU lowered the key rate to a historic low of 6 % .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rate unchanged .

Further monetary policy will depend on COVID-19 developments.
The National Bank's Board on Thursday, September 3, decided to leave its key policy rate unchanged, at 6% per annum.
As before, a longer-lasting coronavirus pandemic, the further spread of the disease, and stricter quarantine measures remain the key risks to macrofinancial stability, reads the NBU report released on its website.
Coronavirus and its consequences for the country
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"The increase in the number of coronavirus cases in Ukraine seen in recent months has not affected the pace of economic recovery. Nevertheless, a new wave of COVID-19 could restrain consumer demand and slow the recovery in domestic-market-oriented sectors, especially the services sector," the report reads.
Consumer demand recovery
Given the balance of risks and the steady trend towards recovery in consumer demand, the NBU Board kept the key policy rate unchanged, at 6%.
The fact that the key policy rate is being kept below its neutral level shows that monetary policy is expansionary," NBU Governor Kyrylo Shevchenko told a Kyiv briefing. "The policy also leaves enough room for further interest rate cuts in the economy."
Key rate
It is noted that previous key policy rate cuts are continuing to be transmitted to market rates. More specifically, interest rates on hryvnia domestic government debt securities and hryvnia deposits are at record lows. Loan rates are also continuing to fall.
"The NBU has also intensified its regulatory activities in order to promote lending, as well as activities aimed at reducing the share of nonperforming loans in the banking system. This will bolster the downward trend in interest rates on corporate and household loans," says Shevchenko.
NBU’s future monetary policy will mainly depend on how the COVID-19 pandemic develops.
"Under current circumstances, the key policy rate of 6% is aimed at keeping the balance between maintaining moderate inflation and stimulating the economy. However, if the adverse impact of the coronavirus pandemic on domestic demand and business activity increases, the NBU will be ready to give the economy additional impetus for growth. Conversely, the NBU could also deploy monetary policy tools to respond to the likely increase in inflation risks in 2021," the central bank says.
Cooperation with IMF
The primary assumption behind the NBU Board’s decisions remains that Ukraine will continue to cooperate with the IMF.
Cooperation with the IMF "is important not only in terms of financing the state budget deficit, but also from the perspective of receiving support from other international partners and investors. Funds from these sources will go to finance anti-coronavirus measures and infrastructure projects, which will help jump-start the still weak investment activity."
Previous key rate
On June 12, the NBU lowered the key rate to a historic low of 6%. In July, the central bank kept the rate unchanged.


unian--2020-09-03--Almost 40% of Ukrainian millennials report "constant anxiety" about future

The main stress factor is anxiety about their families ' well-being .
Some 38 % of Ukraine 's millennial generation ( 25-40 years of age ) experience constant anxiety about their future .
That 's according to a study conducted by the Deloitte international consulting company , according to the Novoe Vremya news outlet .
The company focused on the following timelines : millennials are those born from 1983 to 1994 , while Gen Z representatives were born from 1995 to 2003 .
In terms of a demographic study conducted by the then-Minister of the Cabinet of Ministers Dmytro Dubilet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about 14 million people , or 38 % of the entire population .
Read alsoOver half of Ukrainians do not trust official COVID-19 statistics – pollAt the same time , millennials are the largest age group of Ukrainians ( 10 million ) .
They also form the core of the country 's workforce .
Some young Ukrainians are under stress amid the coronavirus pandemic , but the share is smaller than among their peers in the West : 44 % of millennials worldwide say they constantly suffer from anxiety about the future , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Ukraine .
For Ukrainian millennials , the main stress factor is anxiety about the well-being of their families : 80 % of Deloitte respondents answered accordingly .
At the same time , 66 % of them dream of long-term financial stability .
Meanwhile , only 28 % of Ukrainians under the age of 40 believe stress is a good reason to take a vacation or day off at work .
• Almost half of Ukrainians stand against full transition to distance learning – poll • Over half of Ukrainians consider themselves Europeans @ @

The main stress factor is anxiety about their families' well-being.
Some 38% of Ukraine's millennial generation (25-40 years of age) experience constant anxiety about their future.
That's according to a study conducted by the Deloitte international consulting company, according to the Novoe Vremya news outlet.
The company focused on the following timelines: millennials are those born from 1983 to 1994, while Gen Z representatives were born from 1995 to 2003.
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In terms of a demographic study conducted by the then-Minister of the Cabinet of Ministers Dmytro Dubilet, these two generations in Ukraine cover about 14 million people, or 38% of the entire population.
Read alsoOver half of Ukrainians do not trust official COVID-19 statistics – pollAt the same time, millennials are the largest age group of Ukrainians (10 million). They also form the core of the country's workforce.
Some young Ukrainians are under stress amid the coronavirus pandemic, but the share is smaller than among their peers in the West: 44% of millennials worldwide say they constantly suffer from anxiety about the future, while there is 38% of them in Ukraine.
For Ukrainian millennials, the main stress factor is anxiety about the well-being of their families: 80% of Deloitte respondents answered accordingly. At the same time, 66% of them dream of long-term financial stability.
Meanwhile, only 28% of Ukrainians under the age of 40 believe stress is a good reason to take a vacation or day off at work.
Latest polls in Ukraine


unian--2020-09-03--Lenders warn Ukraine of possible issues over anti-graft prosecutor replacement

The letter was addressed to the parliament head and head of the president 's office .
The European Union , key European powers , and the World Bank have written a letter to the Verkhovna Rada , Ukraine 's parliament , as well as the President 's Office over the draft resolution the parliament intends to pass on September 3 .
The letter from Western donors and creditors of Ukraine is reportedly at the disposal of the Ukrainian media outlet European Pravda .
The appeal signed on Wednesday , September 2 , is intended to warn of the possible implications @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the commission formed to select the new chief of the Special Anti-corruption Prosecutor 's Office .
Draft resolution No .
3839 on this matter was included in the parliament 's agenda for Thursday , September 3 .
Read alsoAppointment of NABU director ruled unconstitutional – sourceIt is noteworthy the letter signed by the ambassadors of the European Union , Germany , UK , and the World Bank regional director , which formally refers to the Rada decision only , was also sent to Head of the President 's Office Andriy Yermak .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ say the anti-corruption efforts of the Ukrainian authorities have been and remain at the crucial to partnership between the international community and Ukraine , while SAPO is a critical part of the Ukrainian anti-corruption architecture , and therefore , a transparent selection procedure for selecting the new SAPO head after the resignation of Nazar Kholodnytsky is vital , according to European Pravda .
According to the legislation , the Verkhovna Rada shall appoint members of the SAPO chief selection commission .
The resolution put to vote by the Verkhovna Rada proposes to replace @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for replacement .
The authors of the letter refrained from individual assessments of the new candidates , however , they outlined in advance the criterion that would determine credibility of the competition for the SAPO chief post .
The letter refers to the law on the prosecutor 's office , which say that the key in this process is that the selection committee should be formed from among highly reputable candidates with significant experience in the field of combating corruption .
Public confidence in the selection process will largely depend on the composition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says .
According to a source of the European Pravda , the emphasis on the anti-corruption experience of commission members was made due to the fact that the Verkhovna Rada , contrary to Ukrainian legislation , plans to appoint commission members who have no such experience whatsoever .
This raises questions in advance about the quality of selection , Western diplomats stress .
Earlier , Ukrainian anti-corruption experts also voiced concerns about the lack of such experience among parliamentary candidates for the commission .
It consists of 11 members : four representatives of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ designated previously , and seven delegated by the Verkhovna Rada .
Thus , parliament-appointed candidates form the majority .
Transparent and eligible selection of the new SAPO head is one of the criteria for the provision of EUR 600 million in EU macro-financial assistance .
It is also one of the criteria taken into account when the so-called mechanism for the suspension of visa-free travel is applied by the European Union .
• On August 21 , SAPO Head Nazar Kholodnytsky filed for resignation .
Prosecutor General Iryna Venediktova has endorsed the letter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , since start of operations , SAPO , as well as the National Anti-corruption Bureau , has seen a complete rejection on the part of the Prosecutor General 's Office , other law enforcement agencies , and politicians .

The letter was addressed to the parliament head and head of the president's office.
The European Union, key European powers, and the World Bank have written a letter to the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's parliament, as well as the President's Office over the draft resolution the parliament intends to pass on September 3.
The letter from Western donors and creditors of Ukraine is reportedly at the disposal of the Ukrainian media outlet European Pravda.
The appeal signed on Wednesday, September 2, is intended to warn of the possible implications of the decision to change the composition of the commission formed to select the new chief of the Special Anti-corruption Prosecutor's Office. Draft resolution No. 3839 on this matter was included in the parliament's agenda for Thursday, September 3.
Видео дня
Read alsoAppointment of NABU director ruled unconstitutional – sourceIt is noteworthy the letter signed by the ambassadors of the European Union, Germany, UK, and the World Bank regional director, which formally refers to the Rada decision only, was also sent to Head of the President's Office Andriy Yermak.
Representatives of Western donors and lenders reportedly say the anti-corruption efforts of the Ukrainian authorities have been and remain at the crucial to partnership between the international community and Ukraine, while SAPO is a critical part of the Ukrainian anti-corruption architecture, and therefore, a transparent selection procedure for selecting the new SAPO head after the resignation of Nazar Kholodnytsky is vital, according to European Pravda.
According to the legislation, the Verkhovna Rada shall appoint members of the SAPO chief selection commission. The resolution put to vote by the Verkhovna Rada proposes to replace all seven parliament representatives and determines candidates for replacement. The authors of the letter refrained from individual assessments of the new candidates, however, they outlined in advance the criterion that would determine credibility of the competition for the SAPO chief post.
The letter refers to the law on the prosecutor's office, which say that the key in this process is that the selection committee should be formed from among highly reputable candidates with significant experience in the field of combating corruption.
Public confidence in the selection process will largely depend on the composition of the selection committee, the letter says.
Commission for selecting new SAPO chief: background
According to a source of the European Pravda, the emphasis on the anti-corruption experience of commission members was made due to the fact that the Verkhovna Rada, contrary to Ukrainian legislation, plans to appoint commission members who have no such experience whatsoever. This raises questions in advance about the quality of selection, Western diplomats stress.
Earlier, Ukrainian anti-corruption experts also voiced concerns about the lack of such experience among parliamentary candidates for the commission. It consists of 11 members: four representatives of the council of prosecutors, who were designated previously, and seven delegated by the Verkhovna Rada. Thus, parliament-appointed candidates form the majority.
Transparent and eligible selection of the new SAPO head is one of the criteria for the provision of EUR 600 million in EU macro-financial assistance. It is also one of the criteria taken into account when the so-called mechanism for the suspension of visa-free travel is applied by the European Union.
Kholodnytsky's resignation: background


unian--2020-09-03--Health minister slams Odesa authorities over massive festivities amid COVID-19 spike

The city celebrated the anniversary of its founding .
Health Minister Maksym Stepanov on Thursday , September 3 , said the recent mass celebrations set up in Odesa streets were `` beyond common sense . ''
Photos of City Day celebrations in Odesa were posted yesterday .
I believe we all saw this was beyond common sense , '' the minister said , according to RBC-Ukraine .
On Wednesday , Odesa hosted large-scale festive music and entertainment show on the occasion of City Day .
Thousands gathered on the Potemkin Stairs , neglecting quarantine safety measures .
Read alsoCOVID-19-related hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministerPreliminary reports say some 50,000 people attended the event , according to Dumskaya .
Despite the fact that social distancing markings were in place the crowd did not observe the rules , while many chose not to wear protective face masks .
Violation of safety measures will lead to an increase in the number of active COVID-19 cases , Stepanov has warned , adding that the hospital load in the region has already reached 66 % .
Stepanov accused municipal authorities of being driven by local election campaign considerations , and also promised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • As of September 3 , Ukraine reported 128,228 cases ( +2,430 over the last day ) .
• A total of 2,710 people died from coronavirus ( +54 in past day – the new high ) , while 59,676 recovered ( +859 in past 24 hours ) .
• A total of 1,621,697 PCR tests have been run .

The city celebrated the anniversary of its founding.
Health Minister Maksym Stepanov on Thursday, September 3, said the recent mass celebrations set up in Odesa streets were "beyond common sense."
Photos of City Day celebrations in Odesa were posted yesterday. I believe we all saw this was beyond common sense," the minister said, according to RBC-Ukraine.
On Wednesday, Odesa hosted large-scale festive music and entertainment show on the occasion of City Day. Thousands gathered on the Potemkin Stairs, neglecting quarantine safety measures.
Read alsoCOVID-19-related hospital load in Ukraine reaches 44% – ministerPreliminary reports say some 50,000 people attended the event, according to Dumskaya.
Despite the fact that social distancing markings were in place the crowd did not observe the rules, while many chose not to wear protective face masks.
Violation of safety measures will lead to an increase in the number of active COVID-19 cases, Stepanov has warned, adding that the hospital load in the region has already reached 66%.
Stepanov accused municipal authorities of being driven by local election campaign considerations, and also promised to raise the issue with regulators.
Coronavirus in Ukraine: latest


unian--2020-09-03--Ukraine could see second-highest grain crops in history this year

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Ukraine could see second-highest grain crops in history this year
12:45, 03.09.20 268
That's despite a somewhat lower forecast than that released in August.
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unian--2020-09-03--Ukraine's first PM Fokin victim of manipulation over "Donbas pardon" statement – journo

As for his statement on the special status for Donbas , there are also nuances that should be taken into account , says Harmash .
Journalist Serhiy Garmash , who has been part of the Ukrainian delegation in Trilateral Contact Group on Donbas settlement , believes deputy degelation chief Vitold Fokin does stand for pardon to be applied to those who committed certain crimes in Donbas , but not terrorists whose `` arms are soaked in blood up to their elbows . ''
The journalist says Fokin 's statement on the issue has been distorted in the final text of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ act of manipulation of public opinion , Ukraine 24 reports .
Read alsoRussia 's Gryzlov throws tantrums at latest TCG talks – Ukraine delegate '' We 've been talking so much about Fokin .
Today [ September 2 ] I talked to him , which was his own initiative ...
He is very emotional about pressure he 's been subjected to .
He just showed me the text of the interview , which had been agreed [ with the outlet ] .
There are big differences there from what we all eventually saw @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pardon , but there is also a reservation there , which I believe is missing from the final text of the interview , namely : 'except for those who have their hands soaked in blood up to their elbows . '
This is an important clarification , '' the journalist says .
As for the special status of Donbas , there are also clarifications that should be noted in this context , Harmash said .
`` He speaks of a special status , but here it may not be the journalists ' fault @ @ @ @ @ @ @ status .
When we started talking , [ I asked ] who will bring investments here if the region is divided ?
That is , a special status for him is a preferential tax regime , of which he spoke before , and [ Head of the Ukrainian delegation to the TCG Leonid ] Kravchuk spoke , too .
I think there is a certain misunderstanding here .
Perhaps , if you excuse me , the old man was simply used .
Let 's lower the tensions , we need to figure things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Vitold Fokin has recently said he is in favor of granting special status to the entire Donetsk and Luhansk regions , not just their occupied parts as Russia has been insisting .
• The official pointed his stance on the special status , answering the question about the idea of pardon for representatives of Russian-backed proxy forces .
• According to Fokin , many crimes have been committed `` on both sides '' , and that they all must be investigated , while perpetrators must be punished .
• Fokin also noted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the occupied part of Donbas to negotiate with the enemy if the president or parliament order so .
• He claimed the move is also supported by Head of the Ukrainian delegation to the TCG Leonid Kravchuk .
• Interior MinisterArsen Avakov said Fokin 's statement was of provocative nature and not in line with Ukraine 's national interests .
• Head of Ukrainian President 's Office Andriy Yermak said the idea voiced by Fokin did not reflect Ukraine 's official stance .

As for his statement on the special status for Donbas, there are also nuances that should be taken into account, says Garmash.
Journalist Sergiy Garmash, who has been part of the Ukrainian delegation in Trilateral Contact Group on Donbas settlement, believes deputy degelation chief Vitold Fokin does stand for pardon to be applied to those who committed certain crimes in Donbas, but not terrorists whose "arms are soaked in blood up to their elbows."
The journalist says Fokin's statement on the issue has been distorted in the final text of the interview published by Strana.ua in an act of manipulation of public opinion, Ukraine 24 reports.
Read alsoRussia's Gryzlov throws tantrums at latest TCG talks – Ukraine delegate"We've been talking so much about Fokin. Today [September 2] I talked to him, which was his own initiative... He is very emotional about pressure he's been subjected to. He just showed me the text of the interview, which had been agreed [with the outlet]. There are big differences there from what we all eventually saw. That is, he talks about pardon, but there is also a reservation there, which I believe is missing from the final text of the interview, namely: 'except for those who have their hands soaked in blood up to their elbows.' This is an important clarification," the journalist says.
Видео дня
As for the special status of Donbas, there are also clarifications that should be noted in this context, Garmash said.
Perhaps, if you excuse me, the old man was simply used
"He speaks of a special status, but here it may not be the journalists' fault but his own perception of that special status. When we started talking, [I asked] who will bring investments here if the region is divided? That is, a special status for him is a preferential tax regime, of which he spoke before, and [Head of the Ukrainian delegation to the TCG Leonid] Kravchuk spoke, too. I think there is a certain misunderstanding here. Perhaps, if you excuse me, the old man was simply used. Let's lower the tensions, we need to figure things out," the journalist said.
Fokin's infamous statement: background


unian--2020-09-03--Ukraine reports highest daily COVID-19 death toll on Sept 3

The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases grew to 128,228 .
Ukraine said 2,430 new active COVID-19 cases had been confirmed across the country in the past 24 hours as of September 3 , 2020 .
The total number of confirmed cases grew to 128,228 , as reported by the Health Ministry on Telegram .
As many as 59,676 patients , including 859 in the past day , have recovered .
Read alsoUkraine 's Cabinet changes entry rules for foreigners – mediaThe pandemic has taken 2,710 lives with 54 fatalities recorded over the past day , which is a record @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been conducted in the country since the beginning of 2020 .
• The adaptive quarantine was introduced on August 1 .
Ukrainian regions were split into the red , green , orange zones depending on hospital load , the average number of PCR and ELISA tests , the ascertainment rate of COVID-19 , and daily spread dynamics .
• Quarantine-related curbs differ in each zone .
The mildest ones are in the green zone , the regions included in the red zone have to introduce the toughest restrictive measures .
• Updated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ August 17 .
Kyiv was included in the yellow zone .
• On August 26 , the Cabinet of Ministers extended the adaptive quarantine until November 1 .

The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases grew to 128,228.
Ukraine said 2,430 new active COVID-19 cases had been confirmed across the country in the past 24 hours as of September 3, 2020.
The total number of confirmed cases grew to 128,228, as reported by the Health Ministry on Telegram.
As many as 59,676 patients, including 859 in the past day, have recovered.
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Read alsoUkraine's Cabinet changes entry rules for foreigners – mediaThe pandemic has taken 2,710 lives with 54 fatalities recorded over the past day, which is a record high.
In total, 1,621,697 tests have been conducted in the country since the beginning of 2020.
Quarantine in Ukraine: background


unian--2020-09-03--Ukraine sees drop in remittances from citizens working abroad

Ukraine sees drop in remittances from citizens working abroad
11:30, 03.09.20 5647
The amount of money transfers is expected to be significantly lower this year.
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unian--2020-09-03--Russia's Gryzlov throws tantrums at latest TCG talks – Ukraine delegate

The Russian representative was reportedly mad at Leonid Kravchuk 's principled stance on a number of issues .
Head of the Russian delegation to the Trilateral Contact Group on Donbas settlement , Boris Gryzlov , at the latest meeting held on September 3 was `` hysterical , '' says Serhiy Harmash , Ukraine 's delegate representing the war-torn Donetsk region .
`` Some questions have cleared up regarding our delegation 's general policy – not in words , but in deeds .
Today [ chief of Ukrainian delegation Leonid ] Kravchuk quite harshly responded to Gryzlov – his tirades assessing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shut our mouths , mouths of internally displaced persons from Donbas .
It turns out that besides being diplomatic , he can also be principled , '' Harmash wrote on Facebook .
Another envoy from Donetsk region , Denys Kazansky , has confirmed that Kravchuk drove Gryzlov into `` tantrums . ''
According to Harmash , Kravchuk decided that since representatives of the occupied areas brought by the Russian side take part in the TCG meetings in all subgroups , the relevant Ukrainian delegation representing these areas should not be limited only to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the other side began from the humanitarian subgroup , where they blocked the exchange of prisoners , citing the need to repeal the well-known resolution of the Verkhovna Rada on holding local elections [ and the impossibility of holding elections in the occupied Donbas ] .
Dan Kazansky took the floor and started saying that the resolution had nothing to do with the swap and that one should n't play political games when it comes to people being held in prisons , including THEIR people .
[ Russia-brought representatives of Kremlin 's @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Deinogo started yelling like crazy , the latter even turned off the video signal .
Before that Nikanorova had always been restrained ... '' said Harmash .
Read alsoElections in Donbas amid `` leaky '' border unimaginable – KulebaAs Kazansky clarified , the Russian side and their envoys `` communicated more or less adequately '' only in the security subgroup , but the work of the humanitarian and political subgroups was blocked .
Head of the Russian delegation Boris Gryzlov turned hysterical when Harmash asked to speak up at the political subgroup .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ pointing indignantly that only heads of delegations , not experts , should take part in the TCG .
Then I asked which delegation members were those representatives of the occupied areas , and reminded that they were only invited by the Russian side , while [ proxy authorities of ] the occupied areas are not a party to the Trilateral Contact Group .
Also I was outraged by the fact that Gryzlov several times stated that Russia is not a party to the conflict , but only a mediator .
I said that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russia consent to mediate in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia .
I 'm not sure if he heard it because we were speaking over each other , and then Moscow turned off the video signal… '' said Harmash .
He also noted that Kravchuk still insisted that he , despite Gryzlov 's yelling , still be given the opportunity to speak .
And he pointed out that Ukraine itself will decide whom to include in its delegation , and that all members of the delegation are equal in Ukraine .
Read alsoUkrainians @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks on a regular basis – Zelensky 's Office '' In general , I did n't even think that Gryzlov , always such a calm , distanced , and cool man , could be so hysterical .
This remains to be a subject for analysis – why they were so outraged about us ... Well , speaking of the official results , then humanitarian and political issues have been blocked by Russia 's demand to cancel the paragraph of the parliament resolution containing a ban on holding elections in the occupied areas before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ At the same time , 19 demining sites have been agreed , as well as the opening in November of the two checkpoints in Luhansk region .
The next TCG meeting has been scheduled for September 16 , '' added Harmash .
• At the Trilateral Contact Group , the process of negotiations on the mutual release of held persons remains blocked .
• Four new areas for the disengagement of forces and weapons have been agreed .
• The parties agreed on the need to extend truce in Donbas .
• The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mine action .
The parties agreed on the coordinates of 19 demining sites .
• Earlier in August , chief of Ukraine 's delegation Leonid Kravchuk said Russia was blocking the TCG work with a demand to cancel the Rada resolution stating impossibility of holding local elections in the occupied territories .

The Russian representative was reportedly mad at Leonid Kravchuk's principled stance on a number of issues.
Head of the Russian delegation to the Trilateral Contact Group on Donbas settlement, Boris Gryzlov, at the latest meeting held on September 3 was "hysterical," says Sergiy Garmash, Ukraine's delegate representing the war-torn Donetsk region.
"Some questions have cleared up regarding our delegation's general policy – not in words, but in deeds. Today [chief of Ukrainian delegation Leonid] Kravchuk quite harshly responded to Gryzlov – his tirades assessing the Verkhovna Rada and an attempt to shut our mouths, mouths of internally displaced persons from Donbas. It turns out that besides being diplomatic, he can also be principled," Garmash wrote on Facebook.
Another envoy from Donetsk region, Denys Kazansky, has confirmed that Kravchuk drove Gryzlov into "tantrums."
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"Leonid Kravchuk today was unrecognizable – the exact opposite of the image we observe in public communication. He spoke to Gryzlov quite harshly and eventually brought the Russian delegate to tantrums. I had never seen Gryzlov in such condition – he raging so much he even switched off his conference signal," Kazansky wrote on Facebook.
According to Garmash, Kravchuk decided that since representatives of the occupied areas brought by the Russian side take part in the TCG meetings in all subgroups, the relevant Ukrainian delegation representing these areas should not be limited only to the political subgroup.
"The hysteria of the other side began from the humanitarian subgroup, where they blocked the exchange of prisoners, citing the need to repeal the well-known resolution of the Verkhovna Rada on holding local elections [and the impossibility of holding elections in the occupied Donbas]. Dan Kazansky took the floor and started saying that the resolution had nothing to do with the swap and that one shouldn't play political games when it comes to people being held in prisons, including THEIR people. [Russia-brought representatives of Kremlin's proxy forces in Donbas] Nikanorova and Deinogo started yelling like crazy, the latter even turned off the video signal. Before that Nikanorova had always been restrained..." said Garmash.
Read alsoElections in Donbas amid "leaky" border unimaginable – KulebaAs Kazansky clarified, the Russian side and their envoys "communicated more or less adequately" only in the security subgroup, but the work of the humanitarian and political subgroups was blocked.
Head of the Russian delegation Boris Gryzlov turned hysterical when Garmash asked to speak up at the political subgroup.
"Gryzlov suddenly started interrupting me, pointing indignantly that only heads of delegations, not experts, should take part in the TCG. Then I asked which delegation members were those representatives of the occupied areas, and reminded that they were only invited by the Russian side, while [proxy authorities of] the occupied areas are not a party to the Trilateral Contact Group. Also I was outraged by the fact that Gryzlov several times stated that Russia is not a party to the conflict, but only a mediator. I said that I do not remember that Ukraine gave Russia consent to mediate in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. I'm not sure if he heard it because we were speaking over each other, and then Moscow turned off the video signal…" said Garmash.
He also noted that Kravchuk still insisted that he, despite Gryzlov's yelling, still be given the opportunity to speak. And he pointed out that Ukraine itself will decide whom to include in its delegation, and that all members of the delegation are equal in Ukraine.
Read alsoUkrainians representing Donbas to take part in Minsk talks on a regular basis – Zelensky's Office"In general, I didn't even think that Gryzlov, always such a calm, distanced, and cool man, could be so hysterical. This remains to be a subject for analysis – why they were so outraged about us... Well, speaking of the official results, then humanitarian and political issues have been blocked by Russia's demand to cancel the paragraph of the parliament resolution containing a ban on holding elections in the occupied areas before Ukraine regains control of the border. At the same time, 19 demining sites have been agreed, as well as the opening in November of the two checkpoints in Luhansk region. The next TCG meeting has been scheduled for September 16," added Garmash.
TCG on Donbas settlement: main results of Sept 2 meeting


unian--2020-09-03--NBU to retain key rate at 6% – Reuters poll

The central bank anticipates that the recent minimum wage increase will lead to an inflation speed-up in the coming month amid a slow-down of the economy .
The National Bank of Ukraine is expected to keep the key interest rate at the current 6 % , Ukranian analysts polled by Reuters believe .
The central bank anticipates that the recent minimum wage increase will lead to an inflation speed-up in the coming month amid a slow-down of the economy , Reuters reports .
Read alsoNBU 's assets grow by 13 % in H1The NBU Board will meet today , September @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relevant decision .
Of eleven analysts polled , just one predicted a key rate cut to 5.5 % .
`` Many forecasts… point to a significant acceleration of inflation over the horizon of 6-9 months .
This indicates a high probability of completion of the stage of reducing the discount rate in Ukraine , '' said Oleksiy Blinov of Alfa-Bank Ukraine , who predicted that the key rate would see no change .
• From September 2020 , it has been raised to UAH 5,000 per month .
• The increase is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process .
The second phase will be an increase from 2021 to UAH 6,000 , while throughout 2021 , minimum wage should increase to UAH 6,500 .
• At the same time , taking the growth into account , the Cabinet of Ministers on August 26 made a decision to increase from September 1 , 2020 , the size of the official salary ( tariff rate ) of a public sector employee by UAH 2,225 .
• The minimum wage in Ukraine since January 1 , 2020 , increased by UAH 550 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or UAH 28.31 per hour .
• On August 6 , President Zelensky initiated amendments to the state budget to raise the minimum wage to UAH 5,000 from September 1 of this year .
• On August 25 , the Verkhovna Rada , Ukraine 's Parliament , adopted the corresponding bill .
• The National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) on July 23 said the its Board had decided to keep its key policy rate at 6 % per annum after the regulator lowered it from June 12 to an all-time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ row .
• `` The NBU expects to keep the key policy rate at the current low level at least until the end of the current year .
Next year , the NBU will take decisions on the key policy rate taking into account whether or not inflationary risks materialize , how social standards change , and at what pace the economy is recovering , '' said NBU Governor Kyrylo Shevchenko .

The central bank anticipates that the recent minimum wage increase will lead to an inflation speed-up in the coming month amid a slow-down of the economy.
The National Bank of Ukraine is expected to keep the key interest rate at the current 6%, Ukranian analysts polled by Reuters believe.
The central bank anticipates that the recent minimum wage increase will lead to an inflation speed-up in the coming month amid a slow-down of the economy, Reuters reports.
Read alsoNBU's assets grow by 13% in H1The NBU Board will meet today, September 3, to consider and pass the relevant decision.
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Of eleven analysts polled, just one predicted a key rate cut to 5.5%.
"Many forecasts… point to a significant acceleration of inflation over the horizon of 6-9 months. This indicates a high probability of completion of the stage of reducing the discount rate in Ukraine," said Oleksiy Blinov of Alfa-Bank Ukraine, who predicted that the key rate would see no change.
Minimum wage increase: details
From September 2020, it has been raised to UAH 5,000 per month.
The increase is the first stage of the further gradual raise process. The second phase will be an increase from 2021 to UAH 6,000, while throughout 2021, minimum wage should increase to UAH 6,500.
At the same time, taking the growth into account, the Cabinet of Ministers on August 26 made a decision to increase from September 1, 2020, the size of the official salary (tariff rate) of a public sector employee by UAH 2,225.
The minimum wage in Ukraine since January 1, 2020, increased by UAH 550, having amounted to UAH 4,723 per month, or UAH 28.31 per hour.
On August 6, President Zelensky initiated amendments to the state budget to raise the minimum wage to UAH 5,000 from September 1 of this year.
On August 25, the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine's Parliament, adopted the corresponding bill.
NBU key rate: background


unian--2020-09-03--MFA Ukraine calls for Russia sanctions over Navalny poisoning

Only a unified position of the international community and sanctions will force the Russian authorities to stop committing crimes , diplomats believe .
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has condemned the poisoning of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny with a nerve agent from the novichok group .
`` We strongly condemn yet another criminal act by the Russian authorities who continue their attacks on democracy and human rights in the Russian Federation and beyond .
We are convinced that the international community must respond appropriately to this inhuman reprisal by the Kremlin of an opposition politician , '' reads the statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Read alsoU.S .
adds Russian chemical research facilities to sanctions listOnly a unified resolute position and firm condemnation on the part of the civilized world , including through imposing sanctions , can `` force Russian authorities to stop committing crimes , grossly violating human rights , and destroying the legal foundations of the global order both in relation to leading opposition politicians and entire states , '' the ministry stressed .
• Russian opposition 's Alexei Navalny felt sick on board the plane he was flying to the city of Tomsk on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ condition forced the captain to perform an emergency landing in Omsk .
• Navalny 's press secretary assumed the politician 's tea had been laced with posion .
• Navalny was evacuated from Omsk to Germany on an ambulance aircraft for further medical treatment on Saturday , August 22 .
• Experts with the Bundeswehr laboratory found traces of poison from the Novichok group in the body of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny .
In this regard , Berlin calls on Moscow to explain the circumstances of the poisoning of the Russian opposition @ @

Only a unified position of the international community and sanctions will force the Russian authorities to stop committing crimes, diplomats believe.
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has condemned the poisoning of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny with a nerve agent from the novichok group.
"We strongly condemn yet another criminal act by the Russian authorities who continue their attacks on democracy and human rights in the Russian Federation and beyond. We are convinced that the international community must respond appropriately to this inhuman reprisal by the Kremlin of an opposition politician," reads the statement published on the foreign ministry's website.
Read alsoU.S. adds Russian chemical research facilities to sanctions listOnly a unified resolute position and firm condemnation on the part of the civilized world, including through imposing sanctions, can "force Russian authorities to stop committing crimes, grossly violating human rights, and destroying the legal foundations of the global order both in relation to leading opposition politicians and entire states," the ministry stressed.
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We strongly condemn yet another criminal act by the Russian authorities who continue their attacks on democracy and human rights
Navalny poisoning: background


unian--2020-09-03--Donbas truce: Ukraine reports enemy provocation on Sept 2

No casualties were reported over the past day .
Ukraine has reported one enemy provocation on Wednesday , September 2 , as Russia 's hybrid military forces violated the newly-agreed truce in Donbas , eastern Ukraine .
`` Over the past 24 hours , Ukrainian military recorded a ceasefire violation by the Russian Federation 's armed formations , '' the press center of Ukraine 's Joint Forces Operation Command reported in a Facebook update as of 07:00 Kyiv time on September 3 , 2020 .
In particular , the enemy opened fire using an under-barrel grenade launcher near the town @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agrees on four new disengagement sites in Donbas – Zelensky 's OfficeUkrainian military did not return fire .
The Joint Forces are abiding by the ceasefire , being ready to adequately respond to possible attacks by the adversary , it said .
No casualties were reported over the past day .
Since Thursday midnight , no attacks by Russian Federation 's armed formations have been recorded , the JFO HQ said .
The situation is under full control of the Ukrainian military .
• Participants in the Trilateral Contact Group ( Ukraine , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the peace settlement in Donbas on July 22 agreed on a full and comprehensive ceasefire along the contact line from 00:01 on Monday , July 27 .
• The new ceasefire regime was enforced at 00:01 Kyiv time on July 27 .
• On the very first day of the newly-agreed truce , Russia 's hybrid military forces mounted three attacks on Ukrainian positions in Donbas , eastern Ukraine .

No casualties were reported over the past day.
Ukraine has reported one enemy provocation on Wednesday, September 2, as Russia's hybrid military forces violated the newly-agreed truce in Donbas, eastern Ukraine.
"Over the past 24 hours, Ukrainian military recorded a ceasefire violation by the Russian Federation's armed formations," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation Command reported in a Facebook update as of 07:00 Kyiv time on September 3, 2020.
In particular, the enemy opened fire using an under-barrel grenade launcher near the town of Maryinka.
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Read alsoTrilateral Contact Group agrees on four new disengagement sites in Donbas – Zelensky's OfficeUkrainian military did not return fire.
The Joint Forces are abiding by the ceasefire, being ready to adequately respond to possible attacks by the adversary, it said.
No casualties were reported over the past day.
Since Thursday midnight, no attacks by Russian Federation's armed formations have been recorded, the JFO HQ said.
The situation is under full control of the Ukrainian military.
Donbas ceasefire: background


unian--2020-09-03--Lukashenko mulled union state with Ukraine – Tusk

He also reportedly wanted to be its leader .
President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus in the spring of 2014 , when Russia was annexing Crimea and fomenting unrest in Donbas , offered the then head of the Polish government , Donald Tusk , to convince the EU to support the merger of Ukraine and Belarus into a union state headed by Lukashenko himself .
`` Lukashenko phoned me then , when I was prime minister , and directly offered that I convince the EU that he could be the guarantor of a peaceful solution to the Ukrainian issue .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alliance of Belarus and Ukraine with him as president of both countries , '' Tusk told the Polish outlet onet.pl , according to lb.ua .
Read alsoUkraine freezes all contacts with Belarus – FM KulebaTusk says this is how Lukashenko sought to protect Belarus from Russian aggression , and himself – from losing power .
`` At that time , everyone was afraid that Russia would not stop at the annexation of Crimea , and Lukashenko was wary of uncontrolled developments , to which not only Ukraine , but also Belarus could fall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was over for him , '' Tusk explained .
• Last year , leaders of the Russian Federation and Belarus , Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko , agreed to create a single parliament and government of the two countries .
It was reported that the planned Union State is a supranational union of the Russian Federation and Belarus with a single political , economic , military , customs , currency , legal , humanitarian , and cultural space .
• However , a month later Lukashenko announced he would not surrender the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` even to fraternal Russia . ''
• Earlier , Lukashenko said that his country was suffering huge losses due to unequal trade relations with Russia .
Not a single document on the integration of Belarus with the Russian Federation will be approved until principled issues are resolved .
• Russia has been putting more pressure and tightening its grip on Belarus over the past years , Lukashenko told Echo of Moscow Radio late last year .
• `` If Russia tries to violate our sovereignty , you know how the international community @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into the war .
The West and NATO will not tolerate this [ the possible encroachment on the sovereignty of Belarus ] as they 'll consider it a threat to them .
And in some ways they are right , '' said Lukashenko .
• The comment came following a protest rally on December 7 where Belarusians took to the streets calling for the authorities to protect state sovereignty and for the president to be sacked if he goes for the Union State deal with Russia .
• In August 2020 , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ landslide win , huge protests emerged as many Belarusians believe the vote count was rigged .
Amid mounting unrest , Lukashenko held several phone talks with Vladimir Putin , ensuring his `` comprehensive '' support and receiving a promise of assistance to disperse protests upon request .
• Lukashenko has also been claiming external meddling in Belarus ' affairs allegedly coming from the West and Ukraine .
• Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov went as far as accusing `` Ukrainian extremists '' of trying to destabilize Belarus , while his Belarusian counterpart Vladimir @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` color revolution '' by the `` Ukrainian scenario . ''

He also reportedly wanted to be its leader.
President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus in the spring of 2014, when Russia was annexing Crimea and fomenting unrest in Donbas, offered the then head of the Polish government, Donald Tusk, to convince the EU to support the merger of Ukraine and Belarus into a union state headed by Lukashenko himself.
"Lukashenko phoned me then, when I was prime minister, and directly offered that I convince the EU that he could be the guarantor of a peaceful solution to the Ukrainian issue. And that we support his idea of an alliance of Belarus and Ukraine with him as president of both countries," Tusk told the Polish outlet onet.pl, according to lb.ua.
Read alsoUkraine freezes all contacts with Belarus – FM KulebaTusk says this is how Lukashenko sought to protect Belarus from Russian aggression, and himself – from losing power.
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"At that time, everyone was afraid that Russia would not stop at the annexation of Crimea, and Lukashenko was wary of uncontrolled developments, to which not only Ukraine, but also Belarus could fall victim. And this could also mean it was over for him," Tusk explained.
Lukashenko was wary of uncontrolled developments, to which not only Ukraine, but also Belarus could fall victim
Russia and Belarus: Union State


unian--2020-09-03--Elections in Donbas amid "leaky" border unimaginable – Kuleba

Russia has been insisting on Ukraine holding local elections in the temporarily occupied territories before Moscow withdraws its troops and hands control of the border back to Kyiv .
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has said he can not imagine elections held in Donbas while the border with Russia in eastern Ukraine 's warzone remains `` leaky . ''
During a Q & A on Twitter , the top diplomat was asked `` Is the control of Ukraine over the temporarily uncontrolled section of the border with the Russian Federation considered a 'red line ' and a precondition [ ... @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' • Russia sees the Minsk agreements as tools with which to break Ukraine ’ s sovereignty .
Its interpretation reverses key elements in the sequence of actions : elections in occupied Donbas would take place before Ukraine had reclaimed control of the border ; this would be followed by comprehensive autonomy for Russia ’ s proxy regimes , crippling the central authorities in Kyiv .
Ukraine would be unable to govern itself effectively or orient itself towards the West , according to Chatham House .
• On July 15 , 2020 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local elections across Ukraine for October 25 .
Legislators note that the elections in the occupied territories of Crimea and Donbas shall not be scheduled or held .
• On August 19 , at a meeting of the delegates to the Trilateral Contact Group on Donbas settlement , Ukraine 's delegation chief , first president of Ukraine Leonid Kravchuk informed the team members of the appeal he had submitted to the Verkhovna Rada to consider the issue of the resolution 's compliance with Law `` On a special procedure for local self-government in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' and a Package of Measures for the implementation of Minsk agreements .
• On August 20 , journalist Serhiy Harmash , another member of Ukraine 's delegation representing certain areas of Donetsk region , opined that by `` leaking '' to the media a document demanding to cancel the decision of the Verkhovna Rada on local elections , Moscow , makes it impossible to fulfill the requirement or even put the relevant question before Parliament .
Harmash believes that in this way Russia has deliberately driven the settlement process into a dead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advisors to the Normandy Four ( Ukraine , Germany , France , and Russia ) leaders earlier scheduled for late August .
• On the same day , Kravchuk said that Russia was blocking the TCG work with a demand to repeal the resolution of the Verkhovna Rada on the impossibility of holding local elections in the occupied territories .
At the TCG meeting on August 19 , he said , representatives of the Russian Federation and their proxy forces in Donbas stated that they `` do not object to the elections being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the paragraph on the impossibility of voting in the occupied territories be repealed .

Russia has been insisting on Ukraine holding local elections in the temporarily occupied territories before Moscow withdraws its troops and hands control of the border back to Kyiv.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has said he cannot imagine elections held in Donbas while the border with Russia in eastern Ukraine's warzone remains "leaky."
During a Q&A on Twitter, the top diplomat was asked "Is the control of Ukraine over the temporarily uncontrolled section of the border with the Russian Federation considered a 'red line' and a precondition [...] for holding elections in Donbas?"
"I can't imagine elections with a leaky border," the minister replied.
Idea of local elections in occupied territories: background


unian--2020-09-03--FM Kuleba explains Cabinet's move to restrict transit via Ukraine

On September 2 , the right to transit up to two days was removed from the list of grounds for entry of foreign nationals .
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba says the Cabinet of Ministers has restricted transit through the country due to numerous abuses by foreigners who enter Ukraine for transit , but in fact remain on its territory .
`` Every tourist should be conscientious ... We have a free and democratic country , if you cross the border , you may go anywhere .
Therefore , the issue is very delicate and we should realize that citizens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ declaring the purpose of their entry into the country , '' he said at a morning TV show `` Snidanok z 1+1 '' , as reported by TSN.ua on September 3 .
According to the minister , there were numerous abuses of transit via the territory of Ukraine .
So , the Cabinet of Ministers on September 2 decided to limit it .
Kuleba added that transit is mostly used by citizens of Moldova and Russia , who travel home through Ukraine by car .
In such cases , there will be police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for them .
• On August 26 , 2020 , the Cabinet extended the adaptive quarantine across Ukraine until November 1 .
• Then the government imposed a temporary entry ban for foreigners from August 29 until September 28 , with a number of exceptions for certain categories of foreign nationals .
• One of such exceptions was reportedly made for Belarusian citizens due to the mounting unrest in the neighboring country .
• Late on Thursday , August 27 , the Cabinet declared that borders would be shut a day early , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On September 2 , the Cabinet changed entry rules for foreigners .
In particular , the right to transit up to two days was removed from the list of grounds for entry of foreign nationals , while the list of Ukrainian citizens ' relatives who may cross the borders was expanded .

On September 2, the right to transit up to two days was removed from the list of grounds for entry of foreign nationals.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba says the Cabinet of Ministers has restricted transit through the country due to numerous abuses by foreigners who enter Ukraine for transit, but in fact remain on its territory.
Read alsoUkraine could return to strict quarantine: Health minster names conditions
"Every tourist should be conscientious ... We have a free and democratic country, if you cross the border, you may go anywhere. Therefore, the issue is very delicate and we should realize that citizens should also behave in good faith, declaring the purpose of their entry into the country," he said at a morning TV show "Snidanok z 1+1", as reported by TSN.ua on September 3.
According to the minister, there were numerous abuses of transit via the territory of Ukraine. So, the Cabinet of Ministers on September 2 decided to limit it.
Kuleba added that transit is mostly used by citizens of Moldova and Russia, who travel home through Ukraine by car. In such cases, there will be police escorts, while transit may be extended for them.
Temporary entry ban for foreigners: background


unian--2020-09-03--Ukraine's MFA comments on Lukashenko's accusations of meddling in Belarus' internal affairs

There is no need to look for enemies where they do not exist , the ministry says .
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs ( MFA ) of Ukraine has commented on Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko 's accusations against Ukraine of meddling in the country 's internal affairs .
Read alsoLukashenko accuses Ukraine of interfering in Belarus ' internal affairs '' An exhaustive response to the reproaches of certain politicians about Ukraine 's alleged involvement in organizing protests in the Republic of Belarus was given by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba yesterday .
In particular , he noted that Ukraine had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and would not be engaged in any subversive activities against Belarus , '' the ministry said in a statement on September 3 .
`` In connection with another false accusation of interference in the internal affairs of Belarus , voiced by A. Lukashenko , we call on our Belarusian friends and partners not to succumb to information provocations , so as not to fall into the trap of propaganda and fakes , '' reads the statement .
The ministry added that `` there is no need to look for enemies where they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3 , Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko accused Ukraine , Poland , Lithuania , and the Czech Republic of meddling in the country 's internal affairs .
According to him , the situation in Belarus is greatly influenced by foreign interference in domestic affairs of the country and external control over street protests , BelTA reported .
• On August 9 , presidential elections were held in Belarus .
The country 's Central Election Commission announced the final election results .
In particular , 80.1 % of voters supported incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1.67 % for Anna Kanopatskaya , 1.2 % for Andrey Dmitriev , and 1.14 % for Sergei Cherechnya .
Some 4.59 % voted against all candidates .
• Thousands of residents of Belarus took to the streets to protest what they believe is a rigged vote count .
Riot police violently cracked down on protesters .
• Belarus ' Ministry of Internal Affairs said about 7,000 protesters had been detained in different cities since August 9 .
On the evening of August 13 , the authorities started to release detainees .
• On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it did not recognize the outcome of the presidential elections in Belarus and on August 19 leaders reportedly agreed on sanctions to be introduced over election rigging and violence against protesters .
• The March of Freedom , the largest protest in the history of Belarus , took place on August 16 in Minsk .
Hundreds of thousands of people joined in .
• On August 20 , the Prosecutor General 's Office opened a criminal probe into the attempt by the opposition to `` seize power . ''

There is no need to look for enemies where they do not exist, the ministry says.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Ukraine has commented on Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko's accusations against Ukraine of meddling in the country's internal affairs.
Read alsoLukashenko accuses Ukraine of interfering in Belarus' internal affairs"An exhaustive response to the reproaches of certain politicians about Ukraine's alleged involvement in organizing protests in the Republic of Belarus was given by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba yesterday. In particular, he noted that Ukraine had not been engaged, was not engaged, and would not be engaged in any subversive activities against Belarus," the ministry said in a statement on September 3.
"In connection with another false accusation of interference in the internal affairs of Belarus, voiced by A. Lukashenko, we call on our Belarusian friends and partners not to succumb to information provocations, so as not to fall into the trap of propaganda and fakes," reads the statement.
Видео дня
The ministry added that "there is no need to look for enemies where they do not exist."
On September 3, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko accused Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, and the Czech Republic of meddling in the country's internal affairs.
According to him, the situation in Belarus is greatly influenced by foreign interference in domestic affairs of the country and external control over street protests, BelTA reported.
Belarus protests: background


unian--2020-09-03--Ukraine agricultural production cost shrinks by 6.7% in Jan-July

The cost of production of crop products fell by 7.5 % , while that of livestock production declined by 3.5 @ @ @ @ @ agricultural production in Ukraine in January-July 2020 shrank by 6.7 % year-over-year ( y-o-y ) @ @ @ @ @ output drop by 11.2 % in Jan-JulyAt the same time , the cost of production @ @ @ @ @ 7.5 % , while that of livestock production declined by 3.5 % , according to @ @ @ @ @ The costs of material and technical resources of industrial origin used in agricultural production decreased @ @ @ @ @ seven months of 2020 y-o-y .
The cost of agricultural production in Ukraine in 2019 @ @ @ @ @ 2018 .

Ukraine agricultural production cost shrinks by 6.7% in Jan-July
20:59, 03.09.20 661
The cost of production of crop products fell by 7.5%, while that of livestock production declined by 3.5%.
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unian--2020-09-03--Ukraine expands "red zone" over epidemiological situation in regions

The zoning shall be effective for 14 days .
Minister of the Cabinet of Ministers Oleh Nemchynov says a list of quarantine zones has been reviewed in Ukraine depending on the epidemiological situation in regions , while the so-called red zone has been expanded .
Read alsoCOVID-19 in Ukraine : Gov't introduces new quarantine zones '' Today , an extraordinary meeting of the State Commission on Technogenic and Environmental Safety and Emergency Situations took place .
From 00:00 [ Kyiv time ] on September 7 ( Monday ) , a new epidemic zoning will start to operate , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • The cities of Ivano-Frankivsk , Kolomyia , and Kalush , Kosiv and Tysmenytsia districts of Ivano-Frankivsk region ; • The towns of Bilyaivka and Izmail , and Bolhradskyi district of Odesa region ; • The town of Dubno , and Kostopil district of Rivne region ; • The cities of Ternopil , Berezhany and Chortkiv , Berezhany , Buchach , Husiatyn , Monastyrsky , Terebovliansky , Ternopilsky and Chortkivsky districts of Ternopil region ; • The city of Chernivtsi , Vyzhnytsia , Hlyboka , Zastavna , Kitsman , Novoselytsia , and Storozhynets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transportation is prohibited in the `` red zone . ''
Educational institutions , including preschool facilities and schools , should be closed .
Only disembarkation of passengers from transit and interregional transport is allowed .
The zoning shall be effective for 14 days .
• The adaptive quarantine was introduced on August 1 .
Ukrainian regions were split into the red , green , orange zones depending on hospital load , the average number of PCR and ELISA tests , the ascertainment rate of COVID-19 , and daily spread dynamics .
• Quarantine-related @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mildest ones are in the green zone , the regions included in the red zone have to introduce the toughest restrictive measures .
• Updated quarantine zoning became effective in Ukraine on August 17 .
Kyiv was included in the yellow zone .
• On August 26 , the Cabinet of Ministers extended the adaptive quarantine until November 1 .

The zoning shall be effective for 14 days.
Minister of the Cabinet of Ministers Oleh Nemchynov says a list of quarantine zones has been reviewed in Ukraine depending on the epidemiological situation in regions, while the so-called red zone has been expanded.
Read alsoCOVID-19 in Ukraine: Gov't introduces new quarantine zones"Today, an extraordinary meeting of the State Commission on Technogenic and Environmental Safety and Emergency Situations took place. From 00:00 [Kyiv time] on September 7 (Monday), a new epidemic zoning will start to operate," he wrote on Facebook on September 3.
The "red zone" will include:
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The cities of Ivano-Frankivsk, Kolomyia, and Kalush, Kosiv and Tysmenytsia districts of Ivano-Frankivsk region;
The towns of Bilyaivka and Izmail, and Bolhradskyi district of Odesa region;
The town of Dubno, and Kostopil district of Rivne region;
The cities of Ternopil, Berezhany and Chortkiv, Berezhany, Buchach, Husiatyn, Monastyrsky, Terebovliansky, Ternopilsky and Chortkivsky districts of Ternopil region;
Velykyi Burluk district of Kharkiv region;
The city of Chernivtsi, Vyzhnytsia, Hlyboka, Zastavna, Kitsman, Novoselytsia, and Storozhynets districts of Chernivtsi region; and
Bobrovytskyi district of Chernihiv region.
Public transportation is prohibited in the "red zone." Educational institutions, including preschool facilities and schools, should be closed. Only disembarkation of passengers from transit and interregional transport is allowed.
The zoning shall be effective for 14 days.
Quarantine in Ukraine: background


unian--2020-09-03--Hryvnia continues weakening, set at UAH 27.69 to U.S. dollar on Sept 4

The official forex rate against the euro for Friday has been fixed at UAH 32.73 per euro .
The National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) has set the official forex rate for September 4 at UAH 27.69 to the U.S. dollar , which made the country 's national currency weaken by five kopiykas .
Read alsoAnalysts post projections for autumn 's hryvnia rateThe official forex rate against the euro for Friday is fixed at UAH 32.73 per euro – the hryvnia gained seven kopiykas in value since Thursday , according to the NBU website .
The central bank has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hryvnia against key foreign currencies for September 4 : US $ 100 will be quoted at UAH 2,769.08 ( UAH 2,764.28 as of September 3 ) ; EUR 100 will be quoted at UAH 3,273.19 ( UAH 3,279.96 as of September 3 ) .
By 16:00 Kyiv time on September 3 , hryvnia quotations against the dollar on the interbank forex market settled at UAH 27.65/27.68 to the dollar , while those against the euro were at UAH 32.65/32.68 .
The National Bank set the official forex rate for September 3 at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which made the country 's national currency weaken by four kopiykas .

Hryvnia continues weakening, set at UAH 27.69 to U.S. dollar on Sept 4
18:45, 03.09.20 5761
The official forex rate against the euro for Friday has been fixed at UAH 32.73 per euro.
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unian--2020-09-03--Navalny poisoning: OPCW Director-General issues statement

Any poisoning of an individual through the use of a nerve agent is considered a use of chemical weapons .
The Director-General of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons ( OPCW ) , H.E .
Mr Fernando Arias , has issued the statement in response to the German federal government 's statement about the alleged poisoning of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny with a nerve agent .
`` Under the Chemical Weapons Convention , any poisoning of an individual through the use of a nerve agent is considered a use of chemical weapons .
Such an allegation is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said in a statement published on the OPCW 's website on September 3 .
`` States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention deem the use of chemical weapons by anyone under any circumstances as reprehensible and wholly contrary to the legal norms established by the international community , '' reads the statement .
The OPCW continues to monitor the situation and stands ready to engage with and to assist any States Parties that may request its assistance .
• Russian opposition 's Alexei Navalny felt sick on board the plane he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ August 20 .
• His rapidly deteriorating condition forced the captain to perform an emergency landing in Omsk .
• Navalny 's press secretary assumed the politician 's tea had been laced with poison .
• Navalny was evacuated from Omsk to Germany on an ambulance aircraft for further medical treatment on Saturday , August 22 .
• Experts with the Bundeswehr laboratory found traces of poison from the Novichok group in the body of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny .
In this regard , Berlin calls on Moscow to explain the circumstances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ figure .

Any poisoning of an individual through the use of a nerve agent is considered a use of chemical weapons.
The Director-General of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), H.E. Mr Fernando Arias, has issued the statement in response to the German federal government's statement about the alleged poisoning of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny with a nerve agent.
Read alsoMFA Ukraine calls for Russia sanctions over Navalny poisoning
"Under the Chemical Weapons Convention, any poisoning of an individual through the use of a nerve agent is considered a use of chemical weapons. Such an allegation is a matter of grave concern," he said in a statement published on the OPCW's website on September 3.
"States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention deem the use of chemical weapons by anyone under any circumstances as reprehensible and wholly contrary to the legal norms established by the international community," reads the statement.
The OPCW continues to monitor the situation and stands ready to engage with and to assist any States Parties that may request its assistance.
Navalny poisoning: background


unian--2020-09-03--NBU releases inflation forecast until late 2020

In July-August , inflation was below the target range of 5 % ± 1 pp .
The National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) has announced the inflation forecast by the end of 2020 .
In July-August , inflation was below the target range of 5 % ± 1 pp , as reported on the regulator 's website .
`` The dynamics of core inflation were subdued .
The revival in consumer demand and the rise in fuel and natural gas prices in line with global market trends were offset by seasonal adjustments in raw food prices , '' it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rate at 6 % It is noted future movements in inflation will depend on how fast the economy recovers .
In particular , data on imports , the retail trade , and household expenditures on domestic tourism , real estate , and cars indicate a further recovery in consumer demand , which is likely to continue in the coming months .
The NBU 's monetary policy easing cycle and the government 's fiscal stimulus , including changes in social standards , will support this trend .
`` At the same time , energy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ global economy gradually recovers from the coronavirus crisis .
The statistical effect of the low comparison base formed in the final months of last year will make a significant contribution to the overall rate of inflation .
All of this paves the way for inflation to enter the target range by the end of the year , '' the NBU said .
• The National Bank of Ukraine raised the inflation outlook for Ukraine in 2020 to 6 % from 4.8 % predicted earlier , while remaining within the target range of 5 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inflation in Ukraine in July 2020 amounted to 2.4 % year-on-year , just as it was in June 2020 , • Inflation in Ukraine in 2019 slowed down to 4.1 % , the lowest in the past six years .

In July-August, inflation was below the target range of 5% ± 1 pp.
The National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) has announced the inflation forecast by the end of 2020.
In July-August, inflation was below the target range of 5% ± 1 pp, as reported on the regulator's website.
Core inflation
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"The dynamics of core inflation were subdued. The revival in consumer demand and the rise in fuel and natural gas prices in line with global market trends were offset by seasonal adjustments in raw food prices," it said.
Read alsoCentral bank keeps key rate at 6%It is noted future movements in inflation will depend on how fast the economy recovers. In particular, data on imports, the retail trade, and household expenditures on domestic tourism, real estate, and cars indicate a further recovery in consumer demand, which is likely to continue in the coming months. The NBU's monetary policy easing cycle and the government's fiscal stimulus, including changes in social standards, will support this trend.
Economic recovery from coronavirus
"At the same time, energy prices will continue to increase as the global economy gradually recovers from the coronavirus crisis. The statistical effect of the low comparison base formed in the final months of last year will make a significant contribution to the overall rate of inflation. All of this paves the way for inflation to enter the target range by the end of the year," the NBU said.
Inflation: background