unian--2020-06-11--Bill on Ukroboronprom corporatization may be submitted to Cabinet, NSDC in June

Management aims to create six separate holdings , with further shutting down the Concern as such .
Deputy Director General of Ukraine 's state-run Ukroboronprom Concern , Mustafa Nayyem , says the bill , which will create favorable conditions for corporatization of state-run defense companies is already at the final stages of approval and may be registered by the Cabinet of Ministers in June .
`` We hope that the draft law will be introduced before the next meeting of the National Security and Defense Council [ NSDC ] , which will decide on a setting up a new ministry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they intend to hold it in June .
I believe that the bill is almost ready .
Now , coordination with the current legislation is underway .
I hope that the Cabinet will introduce the draft as early as this month , '' Ukroboronprom 's press service quoted Nayyem as saying on June 10 .
The official added that , under the Ukrainian president 's decree , the corporatization bill shall be adopted regardless of the date for the creation of a new central executive body to deal with the defense industry .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Antonov staff accuses Ukroboronprom of trying to put aircraft manufacturer to halt '' The decree does n't stipulate first creating a ministry and then implementing reform .
It clearly states that the bill on Ukroboronprom 's corporatization has to be introduced as such .
One therefore assumes that the presidential decree is more definite and has a clearer goal to reform Ukroboronprom rather than create such a body .
It 's a policy-making tool .
The bill should be passed regardless of whether a central executive body is established , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in April said that Ukroboronprom in its current form should be liquidated .
The concern 's management aims to unite its enterprises into six separate holdings , with further shutting down of the concern itself .
UNIAN memo .
Ukraine 's state-run Ukroboronprom concern was established in 2010 to ensure the effective operation and management of state-run economic entities involved in the development , manufacture , sale , repair , upgrading and disposal of weapons , military and special equipment , and ammunition .
Ukroboronprom incorporates about 140 enterprises of Ukraine 's military @ @ @

Bill on Ukroboronprom corporatization may be submitted to Cabinet, NSDC in June
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Management aims to create six separate holdings, with further shutting down the Concern as such.
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unian--2020-06-11--Ukrainian soldier injured in Donbas after enemy drone grenade drop

The serviceman was rushed to a hospital where he was treated for his injuries .
A Ukrainian soldier has been @ @ @ @ @ Pavlopil in Donetsk region in an explosion of a grenade the enemy dropped from the @ @ @ @ @ The enemy dropped a grenade ( probably VOG-17 ) from their UAV on the positions @ @ @ @ @ One Ukrainian soldier was injured in the blast .
The serviceman was rushed to a @ @ @ @ @ proper medical assistance , '' the press center of Ukraine 's Joint Forces Operation ( @ @ @ @ @ Facebook .
According to the JFO headquarters , the insidious act on the part of @ @ @ @ @ unpunished .
Ukrainian troops returned fire , employing weaponry available .
The enemy losses are @ @ @ @ @ adds .
As UNIAN wrote earlier , since Thursday midnight , Russia-led forces have engaged @ @ @ @ @ of Maryinka , and the villages of Chermalyk and Novotroyitske with 82mm mortars , grenade @ @ @ @ @ sniper rifles , and small arms .
One Ukrainian soldier was wounded .

The serviceman was rushed to a hospital where he was treated for his injuries.
A Ukrainian soldier has been wounded near the village of Pavlopil in Donetsk region in an explosion of a grenade the enemy dropped from the unmanned aerial vehicle.
"The enemy dropped a grenade (probably VOG-17) from their UAV on the positions of the Joint Forces. One Ukrainian soldier was injured in the blast. The serviceman was rushed to a hospital where he was provided proper medical assistance," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation (JFO) Headquarters said on Facebook.
According to the JFO headquarters, the insidious act on the part of enemy forces did not go unpunished. Ukrainian troops returned fire, employing weaponry available. The enemy losses are being verified, the report adds.
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Read alsoTwo Ukrainian soldiers wounded amid 14 enemy attacks in Donbas on June 10
As UNIAN wrote earlier, since Thursday midnight, Russia-led forces have engaged Ukrainian positions near the town of Maryinka, and the villages of Chermalyk and Novotroyitske with 82mm mortars, grenade launchers of various types, sniper rifles, and small arms. One Ukrainian soldier was wounded.


unian--2020-06-11--Cabinet signs memorandum with investors in green energy

Ukrainian authorities assume the commitment to fix and approve annual quotas in support of green energy and ensure that auctions are held to distribute such quotas .
The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine says it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with investors in `` green '' energy , which provides for a reduction in the so-called `` green , '' or feed-in , tariffs for solar stations by 15 % , and for wind farms – by 7.5 % .
The document was signed by Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal , acting Minister of Energy and Environmental Policy Olha @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Energy Agency ( EUEA ) , and the Ukrainian Wind Energy Association ( UWEA ) .
`` The Memo stipulates that RES [ renewable energy sources ] producers accept the conditions for the voluntary restructuring of the green tariffs , which provides for their reduction .
In particular , tariffs for all solar power plants ( SPP ) are expected to be cut by 15 % , and for wind power production facilities – by 7.5 % , '' the ministry 's press service said on its website on June 10 .
For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ committed to taking every measure to ensure the timely payment to the Guaranteed Buyer State Company and the repayment of existing debts to RES producers who have agreed on the terms of the restructuring .
Apart from that , the Ukrainian authorities assume the commitment to fix and approve annual quotas in support of green energy and ensure that auctions are held to distribute such quotas .
In addition , the responsibility of RES producers for unbalanced electricity production is increasing .
RES manufacturers also accept the terms of limiting the commissioning of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thus , from August 1 , 2020 , new solar power plants with a capacity of more than 1 MW will be able to be put into operation with state support only through participation in auctions .
`` We are staunch supporters of green energy infrastructure development and such energy being the most widespread , as the cleanest one .
But it is important to us how much it will cost .
If the price of electricity produced at new SPPs is determined at auctions , the tariff wo n't be high , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other investors and producers will join the said associations .
As UNIAN reported , on May 26 , foreign investors in the renewables sector together with Ukraine 's Ministry of Energy and Environmental Policy consolidated their proposals to support and stabilize the financial situation in the energy market and appealed to the Ukrainian prime minister to sign the Memorandum of Understanding .
Earlier , the Ukrainian Association of Renewable Energy , which brings together companies with about 40 % capacity , said that the Cabinet of Ministers ' terms for revising feed-in tariffs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unacceptable and discriminatory for investors .
Ukraine 's acting Minister of Energy and Environmental Policy Olha Buslavets in April said Ukrainian power industry was completely unbalanced in mutual settlements .
Moreover , the state debt for electricity generated by renewables may reach UAH 26 billion ( US $ 976 million ) by the end of the year .
More than 20 % of the country 's renewable energy market belongs to Ukrainian businessman Rinat Akhmetov 's DTEK energy holding .
Then come Swedish , Chinese and Ukrainian companies .

Cabinet signs memorandum with investors in green energy
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Ukrainian authorities assume the commitment to fix and approve annual quotas in support of green energy and ensure that auctions are held to distribute such quotas.
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unian--2020-06-11--Health officials in Ukraine mull "certain measures" amid record daily spike in COVID-19 cases

The number of the new lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases in Ukraine hit a record 689 over the past 24 hours .
Ukrainian Health Minister Maksym Stepanov has said the ministry will offer introducing certain measures to preserve the lives of citizens following a report on a record-high daily number of new active COVID-19 cases .
`` We never had such a record yet .
Even in the most difficult times in April , when the situation was quite tense ... we did n't have 689 people who contracted the virus in one day , '' he said at an online briefing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an increased number of registered coronavirus cases within a week .
As Health Minister , I urge you to adhere to safety rules and recommendations during the week ... , '' Stepanov said , addressing citizens .
`` There has already been an appeal from President that the quarantine has not been canceled , that the threat has n't gone anywhere , but look at the streets ... We 're all exiting from quarantine , we 've all decided that it no longer exists , and that a threat of COVID- 19 is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minister noted that not only the number of new daily cases was growing , but also the number of fatalities , in particular , 23 yesterday and 21 today .
`` We will propose certain measures for the sake of the health of Ukrainians , '' he said .
Stepanov believes the number of deaths and new cases will decrease subject to quarantine restrictions .
`` That 's the way it should be , but when we fail to comply with them , we get the numbers we 're having now .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Health Ministry has to answer for everything , and does not absolve itself of responsibility .
But , it seems to me that we should all start being responsible for our health , for our life , for the health of our families , '' he added .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the number of the new lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases in Ukraine hit a record 689 over the past 24 hours .

The number of the new lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases in Ukraine hit a record 689 over the past 24 hours.
Ukrainian Health Minister Maksym Stepanov has said the ministry will offer introducing certain measures to preserve the lives of citizens following a report on a record-high daily number of new active COVID-19 cases.
"We never had such a record yet. Even in the most difficult times in April, when the situation was quite tense... we didn't have 689 people who contracted the virus in one day," he said at an online briefing on Thursday.
"We have seen an increased number of registered coronavirus cases within a week. As Health Minister, I urge you to adhere to safety rules and recommendations during the week...," Stepanov said, addressing citizens.
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"There has already been an appeal from President that the quarantine has not been canceled, that the threat hasn't gone anywhere, but look at the streets... We're all exiting from quarantine, we've all decided that it no longer exists, and that a threat of COVID- 19 is gone," he said.
Read alsoUkraine sees record-high number of new active COVID-19 cases amid quarantine easing
The minister noted that not only the number of new daily cases was growing, but also the number of fatalities, in particular, 23 yesterday and 21 today.
"We will propose certain measures for the sake of the health of Ukrainians," he said.
Stepanov believes the number of deaths and new cases will decrease subject to quarantine restrictions.
"That's the way it should be, but when we fail to comply with them, we get the numbers we're having now. I think it's very good when the Health Ministry has to answer for everything, and does not absolve itself of responsibility. But, it seems to me that we should all start being responsible for our health, for our life, for the health of our families," he added.
As UNIAN reported earlier, the number of the new lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases in Ukraine hit a record 689 over the past 24 hours.


unian--2020-06-11--Privatization in Ukraine on hold until quarantine lifted, Finance minister says

The minister noted that the prices of enterprises put on sale are at their lowest over the COVID-19 crisis .
Ukrainian Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko says Ukraine has suspended its large-scale privatization campaign in the wake the coronavirus ( COVID-19 ) quarantine .
`` Funds from privatization are practically not earmarked in the [ national ] budget .
By changing the budget , we have reduced the amount [ of revenue ] from privatization as much as possible , sending a signal to all investors that the government will not be selling its assets any time soon during the crisis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 24 on June 10 .
The minister noted that the prices of enterprises put on sale are at their lowest over the coronacrissis .
However , he added , the Cabinet expects to return to the privatization issue as soon as possible .
`` We must sell state assets at their highest price .
The state must get the most out of them if we decide to sell them effectively .
Do n't believe rumors , believe facts .
I 'm a responsible person , '' he added .
As UNIAN reported earlier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a large-scale privatization campaign in the country would start after the coronavirus pandemic is over .

Privatization in Ukraine on hold until quarantine lifted, Finance minister says
13:00, 11.06.20 319
The minister noted that the prices of enterprises put on sale are at their lowest over the COVID-19 crisis.
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unian--2020-06-11--Ukraine envoys at Minsk talks again emphasize priority of establishing sustainable, comprehensive ce

Ukraine envoys at Minsk talks again emphasize priority of establishing sustainable, comprehensive ceasefire

Ukraine reiterated eadiness to open two new crossing checkpoints at the contact line .
The Ukrainian delegation to the Trilateral Contact Group ( TCG ) has once again emphasized the priority of establishing a sustainable and comprehensive ceasefire .
Another TCG meeting via video conference was held on June 10 , the president 's press service told UNIAN .
In the framework of the working group on security issues , representatives of Ukraine once again focused on the need to ensure full and unhindered access of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to the entire territory that is temporarily beyond government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they expressed readiness to provide security guarantees to the OSCE SMM in investigating the incident with the damage to the SMM 's surveillance camera near the village of Petrivske on June 2 , 2020 .
Ukraine once again confirmed readiness to open two new crossing checkpoints at the contact line .
Read alsoUkrainians representing Donbas to take part in Minsk talks on a regular basis – Zelensky 's Office The humanitarian group discussed the issue of launching checkpoints in `` adaptive '' mode .
The Ukrainian delegation also proposed to hold an additional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ progress on the disengagement of forces and means .
`` In the framework of the political working group , the Ukrainian side announced the possibility of holding local elections in certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine within the time period established by law after a comprehensive de-escalation , withdrawal of foreign military units and equipment , disarmament of illegal armed groups , and restoration of control by the Ukrainian government over the state border in the conflict zone , '' the report says .

Ukraine reiterated eadiness to open two new crossing checkpoints at the contact line.
The Ukrainian delegation to the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG) has once again emphasized the priority of establishing a sustainable and comprehensive ceasefire.
Another TCG meeting via video conference was held on June 10, the president's press service told UNIAN.
In the framework of the working group on security issues, representatives of Ukraine once again focused on the need to ensure full and unhindered access of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to the entire territory that is temporarily beyond government control.
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At the same time, they expressed readiness to provide security guarantees to the OSCE SMM in investigating the incident with the damage to the SMM's surveillance camera near the village of Petrivske on June 2, 2020.
Ukraine once again confirmed readiness to open two new crossing checkpoints at the contact line.
Read alsoUkrainians representing Donbas to take part in Minsk talks on a regular basis – Zelensky's Office
The humanitarian group discussed the issue of launching checkpoints in "adaptive" mode.
The Ukrainian delegation also proposed to hold an additional meeting of the security group to achieve progress on the disengagement of forces and means.
"In the framework of the political working group, the Ukrainian side announced the possibility of holding local elections in certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine within the time period established by law after a comprehensive de-escalation, withdrawal of foreign military units and equipment, disarmament of illegal armed groups, and restoration of control by the Ukrainian government over the state border in the conflict zone," the report says.
The TCG announced a technical break until June 15.


unian--2020-06-11--U.S. House Committee offers to designate Russia "State Sponsor of Terrorism"

The strategy proposes to use U.S. influence to remove Russia from SWIFT .
The Republican Study Committee ( RSC ) – the largest caucus of conservatives in the U.S. House of Representatives – released on Wednesday , June 10 , The RSC National Security Strategy : Strengthening America & Countering Global Threats The proposal offers over 130 solutions to counter America 's most aggressive global adversaries , including the toughest sanctions ever proposed by Congress against Russia and the Putin regime , the Chinese Communist Party , and Iran .
The summary of the RSC document has a section entitled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Strategy of Deterrence '' .
Read alsoU.S .
Congress members call on Pompeo to hit Russia with sanctions over Nord Stream 2 With the aim of `` stopping Putin 's aggression '' , the strategy offers `` designating Russia as a State Sponsor of Terrorism '' .
`` The list of aggressive Russian behavior in recent years is long .
For instance , under Vladimir Putin 's authoritarian regime , Russia has invaded and annexed parts of its neighbors ( Georgia in 2008 and Ukraine in 2014 ) , engaged in disinformation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Western democracies – including the United States , used military grade chemical weapons for assassination purposes , coordinated militarily in Syria with the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Hezbollah , and supported the Taliban in Afghanistan , '' reads the RSC National Security Strategy .
Also , the document offers putting forward `` the toughest package of sanctions on Russia ever proposed by Congress , including secondary sanctions on Russian oil and gas projects , sanctions on Russian sovereign debt , sanctions on Russian proxies in other countries '' .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but it can use its influence to remove Russia from SWIFT through legislation authorizing sanctions on SWIFT itself if it does not expel Russia , '' the strategy says .
The document also stresses the need to `` communicate with the Russian people '' .
It would call for the creation of a strategy to communicate `` directly to the Russian people and support their aspirations for democracy and human rights '' .

The strategy proposes to use U.S. influence to remove Russia from SWIFT.
The Republican Study Committee (RSC) – the largest caucus of conservatives in the U.S. House of Representatives – released on Wednesday, June 10, The RSC National Security Strategy: Strengthening America & Countering Global Threats
The proposal offers over 130 solutions to counter America's most aggressive global adversaries, including the toughest sanctions ever proposed by Congress against Russia and the Putin regime, the Chinese Communist Party, and Iran.
The summary of the RSC document has a section entitled "Russia: Rolling Back Aggression Through a Strategy of Deterrence".
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Read alsoU.S. Congress members call on Pompeo to hit Russia with sanctions over Nord Stream 2
With the aim of "stopping Putin's aggression", the strategy offers "designating Russia as a State Sponsor of Terrorism".
"The list of aggressive Russian behavior in recent years is long. For instance, under Vladimir Putin's authoritarian regime, Russia has invaded and annexed parts of its neighbors (Georgia in 2008 and Ukraine in 2014), engaged in disinformation campaigns to undermine democratic elections in many Western democracies – including the United States, used military grade chemical weapons for assassination purposes, coordinated militarily in Syria with the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Hezbollah, and supported the Taliban in Afghanistan," reads the RSC National Security Strategy.
Also, the document offers putting forward "the toughest package of sanctions on Russia ever proposed by Congress, including secondary sanctions on Russian oil and gas projects, sanctions on Russian sovereign debt, sanctions on Russian proxies in other countries".
"The United States does not control SWIFT, but it can use its influence to remove Russia from SWIFT through legislation authorizing sanctions on SWIFT itself if it does not expel Russia," the strategy says.
The document also stresses the need to "communicate with the Russian people".
It would call for the creation of a strategy to communicate "directly to the Russian people and support their aspirations for democracy and human rights".


unian--2020-06-11--Ukraine FM Kuleba refutes "fake news" following his visit to Budapest

On May 29 , Kuleba paid a visit to Budapest to meet with his Hungarian counterpart Péter Szijjártó .
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba says Ukraine is seeking compromises in relations with Hungary , but will not betray own interests .
The minister noted the spread of `` fake news '' regarding his recent visit to Budapest , where he met with Hungarian counterpart Péter Szijjártó .
He took on social networks to refute false statements and clarify facts .
`` First fake : Ukraine creates the Berehove district in Hungary 's interests .
True : The Berehove district has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the right to continue to be in place .
It 's only about supplementing it with the Vynohradiv district within the reform .
It was not the foreign ministry that made the decision to add this district .
The foreign ministry has nothing to do with the administrative territorial reform , '' he wrote on Facebook .
`` Another fake : Kuleba during his visit to Budapest made a commitment to create the Berehove district .
True : I made no such commitments during my Budapest visit .
The foreign ministry is conducting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'ethnic ' districts .
Such negotiations would be contrary to the Constitution , legislation , and national interests of Ukraine , '' the minister said .
Read alsoExperts concerned over Ukraine 's concessions to Hungary in Zakarpattia region Kuleba also labeled as `` fake '' the allegation that diplomats had betrayed Ukrainian interests in bilateral relations with Hungary .
`` True : diplomats are working to normalize relations with Hungary because this meets the strategic interests of Ukraine , including those of our Euro-Atlantic integration , and of Central Europe as a whole @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are seeking compromises in Ukrainian-Hungarian relations , but we will never betray our interests , we will not cross the 'red lines ' that would harm Ukraine 's sovereignty and territorial integrity .
By the way , we stand firmly on one of them , and I have repeatedly addressed this publicly : we reject the requirements for additional amendments to the education law , '' Kuleba said .
In addition , he said the principled and official position of the foreign ministry is that `` no foreign country has the right to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ districts or regions . ''
`` To us , any interference by a foreign state in the internal affairs of Ukraine is absolutely unacceptable , '' Kuleba added .
As UNIAN reported earlier , on May 29 , Kuleba paid a visit to Budapest to meet with Szijjártó .
Following the meeting , he said that together with his Hungarian counterpart he would recommend Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to hold a meeting in Kyiv in July .
Kuleba said Ukraine offered that a document be signed with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ historical and cultural heritage '' of Zakarpattia region , not its `` problem '' .
In turn , Szijjártó said the three joint commissions of Ukraine and Hungary in June should agree on steps that will resolve disputed issues in relations between two countries .

On May 29, Kuleba paid a visit to Budapest to meet with his Hungarian counterpart Péter Szijjártó.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba says Ukraine is seeking compromises in relations with Hungary, but will not betray own interests.
The minister noted the spread of "fake news" regarding his recent visit to Budapest, where he met with Hungarian counterpart Péter Szijjártó. He took on social networks to refute false statements and clarify facts.
"First fake: Ukraine creates the Berehove district in Hungary's interests. True: The Berehove district has long and finely existed, and has the right to continue to be in place. It's only about supplementing it with the Vynohradiv district within the reform. It was not the foreign ministry that made the decision to add this district. The foreign ministry has nothing to do with the administrative territorial reform," he wrote on Facebook.
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"Another fake: Kuleba during his visit to Budapest made a commitment to create the Berehove district. True: I made no such commitments during my Budapest visit. The foreign ministry is conducting no negotiations with any country on creating 'ethnic' districts. Such negotiations would be contrary to the Constitution, legislation, and national interests of Ukraine," the minister said.
Read alsoExperts concerned over Ukraine's concessions to Hungary in Zakarpattia region
Kuleba also labeled as "fake" the allegation that diplomats had betrayed Ukrainian interests in bilateral relations with Hungary.
"True: diplomats are working to normalize relations with Hungary because this meets the strategic interests of Ukraine, including those of our Euro-Atlantic integration, and of Central Europe as a whole. In the foreign ministry, we are seeking compromises in Ukrainian-Hungarian relations, but we will never betray our interests, we will not cross the 'red lines' that would harm Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. By the way, we stand firmly on one of them, and I have repeatedly addressed this publicly: we reject the requirements for additional amendments to the education law," Kuleba said.
In addition, he said the principled and official position of the foreign ministry is that "no foreign country has the right to tell Ukraine how to arrange communities, districts or regions."
"To us, any interference by a foreign state in the internal affairs of Ukraine is absolutely unacceptable," Kuleba added.
As UNIAN reported earlier, on May 29, Kuleba paid a visit to Budapest to meet with Szijjártó.
Following the meeting, he said that together with his Hungarian counterpart he would recommend Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to hold a meeting in Kyiv in July.
Read alsoUkraine, Hungary move to settle differences over minority legislation
Kuleba said Ukraine offered that a document be signed with Hungary fixing that ethnic Hungarians represent "historical and cultural heritage" of Zakarpattia region, not its "problem".
In turn, Szijjártó said the three joint commissions of Ukraine and Hungary in June should agree on steps that will resolve disputed issues in relations between two countries.


unian--2020-06-11--Danone pulls controversial ad with Russian actor charged with terrorism in Ukraine

The French dairy giant 's Russian office earlier hired Mikhail Porechenkov to promote one of their products .
A French-based dairy giant Danone in Russia has decided to withdraw the ad involving a Russian movie star Mikhail Porechenkov after a massive backlash from Ukraine where the actor has long been charged with terrorism after he was recorded firing a machine gun at the positions of Ukrainian troops defending the Donetsk Airport in the Donbas warzone in 2014 .
`` I have good news for you .
General Secretary of Danone ( France ) Mathias Vicherat has just called me .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Porechenkov 's participation .
A fast and adequate response .
And now , when the appetite is no longer spoiled , enjoy , '' Ambassador of Ukraine to France Oleh Shamshur wrote on Twitter on June 10 , 2020 .
Read alsoOutrage as Danone ad features Russian actor who fired machine gun at Ukrainian troops in Donbas As UNIAN reported earlier , Ukrainians shared their resentment across social networks after reports emerged claiming a French-based dairy producer Danone released a video commercial featuring Russian movie star Mikhail Porechenkov .
The thing is that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russian actor with terrorism after his controversial appearance in the Donbas warzone in 2014 .
A Russian propaganda video captured him shooting a massive Utious machine gun at the positions of Ukrainian troops defending the Donetsk airport before it was eventually destroyed and seized by Russian-controlled forces .

The French dairy giant's Russian office earlier hired Mikhail Porechenkov to promote one of their products.
A French-based dairy giant Danone in Russia has decided to withdraw the ad involving a Russian movie star Mikhail Porechenkov after a massive backlash from Ukraine where the actor has long been charged with terrorism after he was recorded firing a machine gun at the positions of Ukrainian troops defending the Donetsk Airport in the Donbas warzone in 2014.
"I have good news for you. General Secretary of Danone (France) Mathias Vicherat has just called me. The company stops an advertising campaign with Porechenkov's participation. A fast and adequate response. And now, when the appetite is no longer spoiled, enjoy," Ambassador of Ukraine to France Oleh Shamshur wrote on Twitter on June 10, 2020.
Read alsoOutrage as Danone ad features Russian actor who fired machine gun at Ukrainian troops in Donbas
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As UNIAN reported earlier, Ukrainians shared their resentment across social networks after reports emerged claiming a French-based dairy producer Danone released a video commercial featuring Russian movie star Mikhail Porechenkov.
The thing is that Ukrainian security forces have long charged the Russian actor with terrorism after his controversial appearance in the Donbas warzone in 2014.
A Russian propaganda video captured him shooting a massive Utious machine gun at the positions of Ukrainian troops defending the Donetsk airport before it was eventually destroyed and seized by Russian-controlled forces.


unian--2020-06-11--NBU keeps official hryvnia at UAH 26.64 to U.S. dollar on June 11

The official forex rate against the euro for Thursday is fixed at UAH 30.29 per euro .
The National Bank of Ukraine ( NBU ) on June 10 set the official forex rate for June 11 at UAH 26.64 to the U.S. dollar , having kept the rate at the same level .
The central bank has fixed the following official forex rates of the hryvnia against key foreign currencies for June 11 : US $ 100 will be quoted at UAH 2,663.67 ( UAH 2,664.12 as of June 10 ) ; EUR 100 will be quoted at UAH 3,028.59 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
Read alsoWorld Bank expects Ukraine 's economy to shrink by 3.5 % in 2020 By 16:00 Kyiv time on June 10 , hryvnia quotations against the dollar on the interbank forex market settled at UAH 26.58/26.60 to the dollar , while those against the euro were at UAH 30.23/30.26 .
As UNIAN reported earlier , the National Bank set the official forex rate of the hryvnia for Wednesday , June 10 , at UAH 26.64 to the U.S. dollar , which made the country 's national currency weaken by four kopiykas @ @ @ @ @

NBU keeps official hryvnia at UAH 26.64 to U.S. dollar on June 11
11:20, 11.06.20 1445
The official forex rate against the euro for Thursday is fixed at UAH 30.29 per euro.
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unian--2020-06-11--IMF expects Ukraine to continue tax, customs reform – Ministry of Finance

Also , the key lender traditionally wants to see a balanced budget policy and efforts to tackle corruption .
A new stand-by arrangement the International Monetary Fund has approved for Ukraine requires continued reform of the tax and customs services , including the creation of single legal entities on the basis of the said agencies , says Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko .
`` A number of structural reforms are envisaged .
In particular , customs and tax reform will continue in terms of creating single legal entities .
Also , the 'immunity ' of the banking system needs to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loans , as well as the institutional capacity of the Individual Deposit Guarantee Fund , '' Marchenko told a Kyiv briefing Wednesday .
He noted that certain packages of measures have traditionally been preserved in the latest SBA , including steps against corruption and money laundering .
`` The IMF pays great attention to these blocs ... Also , traditionally , the IMF wants to see a balanced budget policy .
It has been preserved , and the Fund 's decision ensures that the 2020 budget is balanced and provided with sources of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As UNIAN reported earlier , the IMF Executive Board approved an 18-month stand-by arrangement for Ukraine worth the equivalent of 3.6 billion SDR ( about $ 5 billion ) , aimed at helping Ukraine overcome the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic .
The first $ 2.1 billion tranche is expected to be received in the coming days .

IMF expects Ukraine to continue tax, customs reform – Ministry of Finance
11:00, 11.06.20 1119
Also, the key lender traditionally wants to see a balanced budget policy and efforts to tackle corruption.
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unian--2020-06-11--Two Ukrainian soldiers wounded amid 14 enemy attacks in Donbas on June 10

According to intelligence data , two members of Russia-led forces were killed in action on June 10 .
Russia 's hybrid military forces on June 10 mounted 14 attacks on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas , eastern Ukraine , with two Ukrainian soldiers reported as wounded in action .
`` The Russian Federation 's armed formations violated the ceasefire 14 times in the past day , '' the press center of Ukraine 's Joint Forces Operation Headquarters said on Facebook in an update as of 07:00 Kyiv time on June 11 .
`` As a result , two servicemen of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shelling . ''
Russian-led forces opened fire , employing proscribed 120mm and 82mm mortars , infantry fighting vehicles , grenade launchers of various types , UAVs , heavy machine guns , and small arms .
Read alsoOutrage as Danone ad features Russian actor who fired machine gun at Ukrainian troops in Donbas Under attack came Ukrainian positions near the towns of Avdiyivka , Maryinka and Popasna , and the villages of Pavlopil , Taramchuk , Luhanske , Khutir Vilny , and Troyitske .
Joint Forces returned fire in response to each enemy attack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ members of Russia-led forces were killed in action on June 10 .
`` Since Thursday midnight , Russia-led forces have engaged Ukrainian positions near Maryinka , and the villages of Chermalyk and Novotroyitske with 82mm mortars , grenade launchers of various types , sniper rifles , and small arms .
One Ukrainian soldier was wounded , '' the update said .

According to intelligence data, two members of Russia-led forces were killed in action on June 10.
Russia's hybrid military forces on June 10 mounted 14 attacks on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, with two Ukrainian soldiers reported as wounded in action.
"The Russian Federation's armed formations violated the ceasefire 14 times in the past day," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation Headquarters said on Facebook in an update as of 07:00 Kyiv time on June 11. "As a result, two servicemen of the Joint Forces were wounded in enemy shelling."
Russian-led forces opened fire, employing proscribed 120mm and 82mm mortars, infantry fighting vehicles, grenade launchers of various types, UAVs, heavy machine guns, and small arms.
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Read alsoOutrage as Danone ad features Russian actor who fired machine gun at Ukrainian troops in Donbas
Under attack came Ukrainian positions near the towns of Avdiyivka, Maryinka and Popasna, and the villages of Pavlopil, Taramchuk, Luhanske, Khutir Vilny, and Troyitske.
Joint Forces returned fire in response to each enemy attack. According to intelligence data, two members of Russia-led forces were killed in action on June 10.
"Since Thursday midnight, Russia-led forces have engaged Ukrainian positions near Maryinka, and the villages of Chermalyk and Novotroyitske with 82mm mortars, grenade launchers of various types, sniper rifles, and small arms. One Ukrainian soldier was wounded," the update said.


unian--2020-06-11--EU should take into account interests of partners, including Ukraine, withing Eastern Partnership in

EU should take into account interests of partners, including Ukraine, withing Eastern Partnership initiative – Kuleba

Minister stressed the need to consolidate efforts to prepare an ambitious Joint Declaration of the upcoming summit .
Ukraine 's Minister for Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba has noted that the European Union , within the framework of the Eastern Partnership initiative , should take into account the interests of its Eastern partners , including Ukraine .
On Wednesday , Kuleba held a video conference call with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sweden , Ann Linde , MFA Ukraine 's press service reports .
On the eve of a video conference of the Eastern Partnership foreign ministers , scheduled for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Sweden 's support for Ukraine 's European integration aspirations .
Kuleba noted the importance of consolidating efforts to prepare an ambitious Joint Declaration of the upcoming Eastern Partnership Summit on the principles of joint ownership and strategic nature of the initiative , taking into account the interests of Eastern partners .
Ukraine 's top diplomat briefed his Swedish counterpart on the security situation in the country 's temporarily occupied territories , about the developments in the Normandy Four negotiations , and the process of the implementation of Minsk agreements .
Read alsoNo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ peace in Donbas – FM Kuleba The foreign minister also noted that the issues of combating armed aggression by the Russian Federation and joint steps to de-occupy Crimea should remain a priority on the OSCE agenda .
`` I am convinced that the high level of Swedish diplomacy will effectively and consistently protect the principles and norms that underpin the architecture of European security and the activities of the OSCE during the Swedish chairmanship in 2021 , '' Kuleba emphasized .
In turn , the Swedish foreign minister noted progress in reform implementation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a law on the land market .
The entry to the Ukrainian market of major Swedish brands , such as IKEA , is a testament to Ukraine 's success on this path .
The foreign ministers of Ukraine and Sweden expressed their intention to deepen economic cooperation between the two countries and make efforts to minimize the negative impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the international economy .
As UNIAN reported earlier , foreign ministers of the six members of the Eastern Partnership and the leadership of the European Union will hold an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In turn , the leaders of 27 countries – members of the European Union – and six states that are part of the Eastern Partnership will hold a video conference on June 18 .
At the same time , an in-person meeting of leaders within the summit 's framework is scheduled for early 2021 .
On April 21 , Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that the Eastern Partnership initiative of the European Union should contribute to Ukraine 's gradual integration into the EU 's internal market .

Minister stressed the need to consolidate efforts to prepare an ambitious Joint Declaration of the upcoming summit.
Ukraine's Minister for Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba has noted that the European Union, within the framework of the Eastern Partnership initiative, should take into account the interests of its Eastern partners, including Ukraine.
On Wednesday, Kuleba held a video conference call with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sweden, Ann Linde, MFA Ukraine's press service reports.
On the eve of a video conference of the Eastern Partnership foreign ministers, scheduled for June 11, the interlocutors discussed issues of Sweden's support for Ukraine's European integration aspirations.
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Kuleba noted the importance of consolidating efforts to prepare an ambitious Joint Declaration of the upcoming Eastern Partnership Summit on the principles of joint ownership and strategic nature of the initiative, taking into account the interests of Eastern partners.
Ukraine's top diplomat briefed his Swedish counterpart on the security situation in the country's temporarily occupied territories, about the developments in the Normandy Four negotiations, and the process of the implementation of Minsk agreements.
Read alsoNo constructiveness on Russia's side to achieve peace in Donbas – FM Kuleba
The foreign minister also noted that the issues of combating armed aggression by the Russian Federation and joint steps to de-occupy Crimea should remain a priority on the OSCE agenda.
"I am convinced that the high level of Swedish diplomacy will effectively and consistently protect the principles and norms that underpin the architecture of European security and the activities of the OSCE during the Swedish chairmanship in 2021," Kuleba emphasized.
In turn, the Swedish foreign minister noted progress in reform implementation in Ukraine, including the adoption of a law on the land market. The entry to the Ukrainian market of major Swedish brands, such as IKEA, is a testament to Ukraine's success on this path.
The foreign ministers of Ukraine and Sweden expressed their intention to deepen economic cooperation between the two countries and make efforts to minimize the negative impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the international economy.
As UNIAN reported earlier, foreign ministers of the six members of the Eastern Partnership and the leadership of the European Union will hold an informal video conference on June 11.
In turn, the leaders of 27 countries – members of the European Union – and six states that are part of the Eastern Partnership will hold a video conference on June 18. At the same time, an in-person meeting of leaders within the summit's framework is scheduled for early 2021.
On April 21, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that the Eastern Partnership initiative of the European Union should contribute to Ukraine's gradual integration into the EU's internal market.


unian--2020-06-11--European Commission green-lights EUR 500 mln in financial aid for Ukraine

The European Commission has green-lighted EUR 500 million in the second tranche of the fourth Macro-Financial Assistance ( MFA ) for Ukraine after the International Monetary Fund ( IMF ) approved the first disbursement under a new cooperation program with the Ukrainian authorities .
`` The European Commission has provided a EUR 500 million resource to Ukraine within the framework of the 4th Macro-Financial Assistance , '' Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said on Twitter on June 10 .
`` Grateful to the EU for the positive assessment of the reform process in Ukraine .
The received funding will enable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the global crisis . ''
`` Successful cooperation with the IMF has translated into an approving response from European partners on the allocation of the next tranche under the program , '' Shmyhal said on Telegram on the same day .
`` Ukraine has fulfilled all the conditions for implementing reforms , which clearly strengthened its status as a responsible state .
The funds to be received will be channeled into the national budget to cover spending on handling COVID-19 consequences , '' he added .
Read alsoUkraine-IMF new cooperation program provides for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Shmyhal The Ukrainian Finance Ministry 's press service , in turn , said that the tranche is a loan at 0.125 % per annum with a maturity date of June 10 , 2035 .
`` The funds will be used to finance state budget expenditures , help reduce external financial pressure on Ukraine , and improve the country 's balance of payments , '' the ministry said on June 10 .
`` Considering the state budget needs to finance immediate areas to counter the spread of COVID-19 , receiving these funds will contribute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' As UNIAN reported earlier , the IMF Executive Board on June 9 approved an 18-month Stand-By Arrangement ( SBA ) for Ukraine , with access equivalent to SDR 3.6 billion ( about US $ 5 billion , or 179 % of quota ) .

The decision followed a recent IMF disbursement.
The European Commission has green-lighted EUR 500 million in the second tranche of the fourth Macro-Financial Assistance (MFA) for Ukraine after the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved the first disbursement under a new cooperation program with the Ukrainian authorities.
"The European Commission has provided a EUR 500 million resource to Ukraine within the framework of the 4th Macro-Financial Assistance," Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said on Twitter on June 10. "Grateful to the EU for the positive assessment of the reform process in Ukraine. The received funding will enable strengthening [of] our economy amid the global crisis."
@EU_Commission has provided a €500 million resource to 🇺🇦 within the framework of the 4th macro-financial assistance. Grateful to the #EU for the positive assessment of the reform progress in 🇺🇦. The received funding will enable strengthening our economy amid the global crisis. — Denys Shmyhal (@Denys_Shmyhal) June 10, 2020
"Successful cooperation with the IMF has translated into an approving response from European partners on the allocation of the next tranche under the program," Shmyhal said on Telegram on the same day.
"Ukraine has fulfilled all the conditions for implementing reforms, which clearly strengthened its status as a responsible state. The funds to be received will be channeled into the national budget to cover spending on handling COVID-19 consequences," he added.
Read alsoUkraine-IMF new cooperation program provides for no raise in retirement age – PM Shmyhal
The Ukrainian Finance Ministry's press service, in turn, said that the tranche is a loan at 0.125% per annum with a maturity date of June 10, 2035.
"The funds will be used to finance state budget expenditures, help reduce external financial pressure on Ukraine, and improve the country's balance of payments," the ministry said on June 10. "Considering the state budget needs to finance immediate areas to counter the spread of COVID-19, receiving these funds will contribute to maintaining financial stability in Ukraine."
As UNIAN reported earlier, the IMF Executive Board on June 9 approved an 18-month Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) for Ukraine, with access equivalent to SDR 3.6 billion (about US$5 billion, or 179% of quota).


unian--2020-06-11--Ukraine sees record-high number of new active COVID-19 cases amid quarantine easing

Twenty-one coronavirus patients died in Ukraine in the past day .
The number of the new lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases in @ @ @ @ @ over the past 24 hours , health officials report .
This brings a total of @ @ @ @ @ of the morning of Thursday , June 11 .
Twenty-one coronavirus patients died in the @ @ @ @ @ overall death toll of 854 .
At the same time , 372 patients recovered in @ @ @ @ @ data is available from Russia-occupied areas – the Autonomous Republic of Crimea , the city @ @ @ @ @ Donetsk and Luhansk regions .

Twenty-one coronavirus patients died in Ukraine in the past day.
The number of the new lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases in Ukraine hit a record 689 over the past 24 hours, health officials report.
This brings a total of Ukraine cases to 29,070 as of the morning of Thursday, June 11.
Twenty-one coronavirus patients died in the past day, with the overall death toll of 854.
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Read alsoUkraine further easing quarantine restrictions from June 10
At the same time, 372 patients recovered in the past day.
No data is available from Russia-occupied areas – the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, the city of Sevastopol, parts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions.


unian--2020-06-11--"I don't believe him": Zelensky names Poroshenko's main mistake

Poroshenko is `` not my president '' , Zelensky says .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has commented on contacts with his predecessor Petro Poroshenko , saying that he did have meetings with him after the election .
Speaking with Ukrainian Pravda , Zelensky said that from the very beginning of his cadence , Poroshenko had sought to have a meeting .
`` I saw no sense in this .
I saw no sense in this because everything Petro Poroshenko said before I consider untrue .
I really think that he is an experienced manipulator and an experienced politician , so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was wiping these bot farms on me , my family ...
The only thing they did was insult me , and that was all lies : that I was a drug addict or whatever ...
I 've come a long way with this lie and then I drew conclusions about what he had done as president .
I do n't trust him , I do n't believe him , he 's not my president , '' Zelensky said .
Poroshenko spoke about the possibility of reaching mutual understanding and offered `` certain help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` Then he offered me a meeting so many times , so many times that he once had already come , I told him : alright , yes , '' the president said , adding that it was a diplomatic meeting .
Read alsoPoroshenko could be arrested over alleged issue of `` criminal order '' Poroshenko 's main mistake , Zelensky believes , is that he still considers himself President of Ukraine .
`` And he will continue to think so .
And even in 10 years , he 'll believe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ done anything for Ukraine , while everyone else is nobody .
It will be the case , believe me , '' he said .
To a clarifying question , Zelensky explained that the fifth president was offering him help , adding that the issue of forming a union is off the table .
`` You ca n't negotiate with him – that 's what both his former friends and former foes say , our former presidents .
They say : it makes no sense .
It just makes no sense , '' Zelensky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , prosecutors pressed the `` abuse of office '' charges against Petro Poroshenko in the case of the allegedly wrongful appointment of deputy foreign intelligence chief .

Poroshenko is "not my president", Zelensky says.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has commented on contacts with his predecessor Petro Poroshenko, saying that he did have meetings with him after the election.
Speaking with Ukrainian Pravda, Zelensky said that from the very beginning of his cadence, Poroshenko had sought to have a meeting.
"I saw no sense in this. I saw no sense in this because everything Petro Poroshenko said before I consider untrue. I really think that he is an experienced manipulator and an experienced politician, so I don't believe him, he was wiping these bot farms on me, my family... The only thing they did was insult me, and that was all lies: that I was a drug addict or whatever... I've come a long way with this lie and then I drew conclusions about what he had done as president. I don't trust him, I don't believe him, he's not my president," Zelensky said.
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Poroshenko spoke about the possibility of reaching mutual understanding and offered "certain help" in the international arena, Zelensky said: "Then he offered me a meeting so many times, so many times that he once had already come, I told him: alright, yes," the president said, adding that it was a diplomatic meeting.
Read alsoPoroshenko could be arrested over alleged issue of "criminal order"
Poroshenko's main mistake, Zelensky believes, is that he still considers himself President of Ukraine.
"And he will continue to think so. And even in 10 years, he'll believe he's the only one who has done anything for Ukraine, while everyone else is nobody. It will be the case, believe me," he said.
To a clarifying question, Zelensky explained that the fifth president was offering him help, adding that the issue of forming a union is off the table.
"You can't negotiate with him – that's what both his former friends and former foes say, our former presidents. They say: it makes no sense. It just makes no sense," Zelensky summed up.
As UNIAN reported earlier, prosecutors pressed the "abuse of office" charges against Petro Poroshenko in the case of the allegedly wrongful appointment of deputy foreign intelligence chief.


unian--2020-06-11--OSCE updates on first TCG meeting in Minsk with Ukrainians representing Donbas

The Political Working Group discussed aspects related to the consolidation of the special status of certain regions of Donetsk and Luhansk regions .
Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group ( TCG ) , Ambassador Heidi Grau has updated on the outcome of the first TCG meeting in Minsk where Ukrainians representing Donbas participated .
`` The meetings of the Trilateral Contact Group and its Working Groups were held through video conferencing , '' Grau said in a statement .
According to the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission , the number of ceasefire violations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meeting two weeks ago .
`` Besides assessing the general situation in the conflict zone , the Security Working Group considered issues related to disengagement of forces and hardware , including the identification of additional disengagement areas , as tasked by the Normandy Four leaders in Paris in December 2019 , '' she said .
According to her , the Political Working Group discussed aspects related to the consolidation of the special status of certain regions of Donetsk and Luhansk regions ( CADR and CALR ) in the Ukrainian legislation .
Read alsoUkrainians @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talks on a regular basis – Zelensky 's Office '' The modalities of local elections in CADR and CALR were also considered , as stipulated by the Minsk Agreements , '' she said .
The discussions of the Working Group on Humanitarian Issues focused on further mutual release and exchange of conflict-related detainees .
The participants also discussed the issue of providing the necessary security guarantees for the preparatory works in view of the simultaneous opening of additional entry-exit crossing points ( ECCPs ) on the line of contact in Luhansk region .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ related to re-opening of existing ECCPs in the course of lifting restrictions imposed due to the coronavirus pandemic .
`` I welcome the sides ' readiness re-open ECCPs , which is for the benefit of the population .
I would like to emphasize that the relevant decisions shall be based on mutual understanding to ensure a smooth crossing of the line of contact , '' she said .
As agreed by the participants , the TCG meeting will continue on Monday , June 15 .
As UNIAN reported earlier , a scheduled video @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the OSCE took place on June 10 .
Representatives of certain regions of Donetsk and Luhansk regions ( Russia-occupied Donbas ) were present as part of the Ukrainian delegation .
In particular , Ukrainian journalists Denys Kazansky and Sergiy Garmash acted on behalf of the certain areas of Donetsk region , while Chairman of NGO Luhanske Zemliatstvo ( Luhansk Community ) Vadym Goran and doctor Kostiantyn Libster represented the certain areas of Luhansk region .

The Political Working Group discussed aspects related to the consolidation of the special status of certain regions of Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG), Ambassador Heidi Grau has updated on the outcome of the first TCG meeting in Minsk where Ukrainians representing Donbas participated.
"The meetings of the Trilateral Contact Group and its Working Groups were held through video conferencing," Grau said in a statement.
According to the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission, the number of ceasefire violations has considerably decreased since the previous TCG meeting two weeks ago.
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"Besides assessing the general situation in the conflict zone, the Security Working Group considered issues related to disengagement of forces and hardware, including the identification of additional disengagement areas, as tasked by the Normandy Four leaders in Paris in December 2019," she said.
According to her, the Political Working Group discussed aspects related to the consolidation of the special status of certain regions of Donetsk and Luhansk regions (CADR and CALR) in the Ukrainian legislation.
Read alsoUkrainians representing Donbas to take part in Minsk talks on a regular basis – Zelensky's Office
"The modalities of local elections in CADR and CALR were also considered, as stipulated by the Minsk Agreements," she said.
The discussions of the Working Group on Humanitarian Issues focused on further mutual release and exchange of conflict-related detainees. The participants also discussed the issue of providing the necessary security guarantees for the preparatory works in view of the simultaneous opening of additional entry-exit crossing points (ECCPs) on the line of contact in Luhansk region.
Besides, the Working Group debated issues related to re-opening of existing ECCPs in the course of lifting restrictions imposed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
"I welcome the sides' readiness re-open ECCPs, which is for the benefit of the population. I would like to emphasize that the relevant decisions shall be based on mutual understanding to ensure a smooth crossing of the line of contact," she said.
As agreed by the participants, the TCG meeting will continue on Monday, June 15.
As UNIAN reported earlier, a scheduled video conference of representatives of Ukraine, Russia, the OSCE took place on June 10. Representatives of certain regions of Donetsk and Luhansk regions (Russia-occupied Donbas) were present as part of the Ukrainian delegation.
In particular, Ukrainian journalists Denys Kazansky and Sergiy Garmash acted on behalf of the certain areas of Donetsk region, while Chairman of NGO Luhanske Zemliatstvo (Luhansk Community) Vadym Goran and doctor Kostiantyn Libster represented the certain areas of Luhansk region.


unian--2020-06-11--G7 Ambassadors call on Ukraine to continue reforms in defense industry

Establishing strong and independent corporate governance is vital , they say .
Ambassadors of the G7 countries ( the United States , the United Kingdom , Canada , France , Italy , Germany , and Japan ) have called on Ukraine to continue reforms in the defense industry .
`` During a meeting with [ National Security and Defense Council ] NSDC Secretary [ Oleksiy ] Danilov today , G7 Ambassadors encouraged Ukraine to implement reforms in the crucial defense industry that are transparent and in accordance with international standards , '' they said in a statement posted on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the G7 Ambassadors ' Support Group on June 11 .
Read alsoBill on Ukroboronprom corporatization may be submitted to Cabinet , NSDC in June '' Establishing strong and independent corporate governance is vital to attract investment and modernize Ukraine 's defense sector , '' the statement said .
The NSDC 's press service said in turn that during the meeting , Danilov had expressed gratitude to the G7 countries for supporting Ukraine in its struggle to restore sovereignty and territorial integrity , as well as in reforming the defense industry .
He informed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transformation , saying Ukraine is grateful to the French government for the extremely important support in conducting an audit of the company 's corporate reform .
Also , he emphasized that Ukraine considers it is extremely important to openly inform its strategic partners on security reforms .
According to him , Ukraine continues implementing the reform of the military-industrial complex , taking into account the best international experience in corporate governance .

Establishing strong and independent corporate governance is vital, they say.
Ambassadors of the G7 countries (the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Italy, Germany, and Japan) have called on Ukraine to continue reforms in the defense industry.
"During a meeting with [National Security and Defense Council] NSDC Secretary [Oleksiy] Danilov today, G7 Ambassadors encouraged Ukraine to implement reforms in the crucial defense industry that are transparent and in accordance with international standards," they said in a statement posted on the Twitter account of the U.S. Presidency of the G7 Ambassadors' Support Group on June 11.
Read alsoBill on Ukroboronprom corporatization may be submitted to Cabinet, NSDC in June
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"Establishing strong and independent corporate governance is vital to attract investment and modernize Ukraine's defense sector," the statement said.
The NSDC's press service said in turn that during the meeting, Danilov had expressed gratitude to the G7 countries for supporting Ukraine in its struggle to restore sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as in reforming the defense industry.
He informed about plans for state-run Ukroboronprom Consortium's transformation, saying Ukraine is grateful to the French government for the extremely important support in conducting an audit of the company's corporate reform.
Also, he emphasized that Ukraine considers it is extremely important to openly inform its strategic partners on security reforms.
According to him, Ukraine continues implementing the reform of the military-industrial complex, taking into account the best international experience in corporate governance.


unian--2020-06-11--Zelensky taps Rear Admiral Neizhpapa to command Ukraine's Navy

The relevant decree was signed on June 11 .
Relevant decree № 217/2020 was signed by the president on June 11 , the presidential press service said .
Neizhpapa was born in the city of Sevastopol , Crimea , in 1975 .
He graduated from Sevastopol Naval Institute in 1997 , from the same Institute ( operational and tactical level ) in 2008 , and from Ukraine 's National Defense University in 2015 .
Read alsoUkraine to demand compensation from Russia caused by aggression in Kerch Strait – FM official In 2015-2019 , he was deputy commander of the Navy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ training department of the Navy 's Command .
Since April 2020 , Neizhpapa has been serving as deputy commander of the Ukrainian Navy .
He took part in the Anti-Terrorist Operation ( ATO ) in Donetsk and Luhansk regions .
He served on ships of the Navy of the Armed Forces of Ukraine as a lieutenant to a captain of the first rank inclusively ( in positions from the commander of a group of frigates to the commander of a brigade of surface vessels ) .
He received military ranks twice as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He was repeatedly in charge of Ukrainian-U.S. Sea Breeze drills as commander on behalf of Ukraine .

The relevant decree was signed on June 11.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appointed Rear Admiral Oleksiy Neizhpapa as Ukraine's Navy Commander.
Relevant decree № 217/2020 was signed by the president on June 11, the presidential press service said.
Neizhpapa was born in the city of Sevastopol, Crimea, in 1975. He graduated from Sevastopol Naval Institute in 1997, from the same Institute (operational and tactical level) in 2008, and from Ukraine's National Defense University in 2015.
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Read alsoUkraine to demand compensation from Russia caused by aggression in Kerch Strait – FM official
In 2015-2019, he was deputy commander of the Navy for combat training and headed the combat training department of the Navy's Command.
Since April 2020, Neizhpapa has been serving as deputy commander of the Ukrainian Navy. He took part in the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO) in Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
He served on ships of the Navy of the Armed Forces of Ukraine as a lieutenant to a captain of the first rank inclusively (in positions from the commander of a group of frigates to the commander of a brigade of surface vessels).
He received military ranks twice as a ship commander and a brigade commander. He was repeatedly in charge of Ukrainian-U.S. Sea Breeze drills as commander on behalf of Ukraine.


unian--2020-06-11--Republicans propose sanctions against Medvedchuk

A group of Republicans proposes that a number of media tycoons close to Russian President Vladimir Putin who help the Kremlin promote its agenda be included in the sanctions list .
This is stated in a respective report by the Republican Study Committee , entitled `` Strengthening America & Countering Global Threats . ''
The document lists Bidzina Ivanishvili , the richest man in Georgia , who is a close ally of Putin and involved in destabilizing Georgia on Russia 's behalf .
It also mentions Viktor Medvedchuk , a `` pro-Russian oligarch and proxy in Ukraine who has used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's efforts to spread harmful disinformation within the country . ''
`` Understanding the full depth of Russia 's impact on key domestic sectors is key in assisting Congress to address gaps in our current legislative architecture that allow detrimental Russian influence , '' it said .
Meanwhile , speaking during Egor Kuroptev 's Border Zone program , former U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine Negotiations Kurt Volker explained that the publication of the report does not mean its mandatory support by the majority .
`` It is a grouping of Republican congressmen and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ policy papers or ideas that reflect their thinking without it being part of a legislative process .
So is it terribly influential in the sense that this is going to be turned into legislation ?
No !
On the other hand , it is significant because it shows where the thinking is for a significant part of the Republican Party within the Congress .
And from that prospective , it is helpful to see , '' he said .
Volker also noted that it was unknown whether the proposal would be supported in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because `` there are degrees '' of support .

The Republican Study Committee issued a report, entitled "Strengthening America & Countering Global Threats."
A group of Republicans proposes that a number of media tycoons close to Russian President Vladimir Putin who help the Kremlin promote its agenda be included in the sanctions list.
This is stated in a respective report by the Republican Study Committee, entitled "Strengthening America & Countering Global Threats."
Read alsoMedia report "blast" outside Kyiv office of Putin's political operative (Video)
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The document lists Bidzina Ivanishvili, the richest man in Georgia, who is a close ally of Putin and involved in destabilizing Georgia on Russia's behalf. It also mentions Viktor Medvedchuk, a "pro-Russian oligarch and proxy in Ukraine who has used his media empire to actively assist Russia's efforts to spread harmful disinformation within the country."
"Understanding the full depth of Russia's impact on key domestic sectors is key in assisting Congress to address gaps in our current legislative architecture that allow detrimental Russian influence," it said.
Meanwhile, speaking during Egor Kuroptev's Border Zone program, former U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine Negotiations Kurt Volker explained that the publication of the study does not mean its mandatory support by the majority.
"It is a grouping of Republican congressmen and their staffs who work together to produce policy papers or ideas that reflect their thinking without it being part of a legislative process. So is it terribly influential in the sense that this is going to be turned into legislation? No! On the other hand, it is significant because it shows where the thinking is for a significant part of the Republican Party within the Congress. And from that prospective, it is very helpful to see," he said.
Volker also noted that it was unknown whether the proposal would be supported in the Senate and the White House, because "there are degrees" of this support.
"I would not expect the language of this report or the toughness of the sanctions that it recommends to be streamed through across the House of Representatives as legislation into the Senate and into what it makes it to the White House. A weaker version of it would be more likely," he said.
Speaking of increasing the level of sanctions against Russia, he said: "I actually support the idea that the sanctions we've put in place have not been sufficient to change Russia's behavior."
The American diplomat also added that he considers the individuals mentioned in the document, in particular Medvedchuk, Russian oligarch Vladimir Yevtushenkov and Ivanishvili, to be "very different people with very different backgrounds and different relationships." "And I think lumping them together in that way is not quite accurate," he said.
"For instance, I think that Mr. Ivanishvili acts very independently. I think that Mr. Medvedchuk, on the other hand, is very, very closely tied to President Putin. So, I don't think you can lump them together this way," he said.
"And in terms of the study group itself, I think this is worked on, researched on and drafted on by staffers there. It doesn't have the level of scrutiny that something going through a formal congressional committee would have. On the other hand, as I said earlier, I think it reflects some of the attitude, the positioning of Republican members of Congress. And for that reason, it's significant to bear in mind," he added.


unian--2020-06-11--European Commission publishes criteria for reopening borders for third countries

Coronavirus-related restrictions should be lifted first with countries whose epidemiological situation is similar to the EU average .
The European Commission has explained the criteria that will be used to gradually reopen the external borders for third countries , including Ukraine , from July 1 .
The decision to lift restrictions for a specific country should be based on the epidemiological situation and coronavirus response in that country , the ability to apply containment measures during travel , and whether or not that country has lifted travel restrictions towards the EU , the European Commission said on its website on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lifted first with countries whose epidemiological situation is similar to the EU average and where sufficient capabilities to deal with the virus are in place .
Restrictions should remain in place for countries whose situation is worse than in the EU , '' it said .
Read alsoHealth officials in Ukraine mull `` certain measures '' amid record daily spike in COVID-19 cases Given that the health situation in certain third countries remains critical , the Commission does not propose a general lifting of the travel restriction at this stage .
The restriction @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Member States , based on a set of principles and objective criteria including the health situation , the ability to apply containment measures during travel , and reciprocity considerations , taking into account data from relevant sources such as the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control ( ECDC ) and the World Health Organization .
Key criteria to be assessed in relation to a third country , based on available data from the country concerned , the ECDC and other sources , include : the number of new infections per 100,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; and the country 's overall response to COVID-19 , taking into account available information on aspects such as testing , surveillance , contact tracing , containment , treatment , and reporting .
A precondition to lifting travel restrictions is the ability to ensure that containment measures , such as physical distancing , will be respected throughout a journey , from origin to destination , including during any possible transit via high-risk areas .
Another criterion is reciprocity and travel advice .
Many third countries have also introduced travel restrictions to citizens coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have an equal treatment for EU citizens , the third country should also lift travel restrictions towards the EU in order to have the same or comparable travel arrangements with the EU .
This should apply to all EU and Schengen States ; it can not be applied selectively .
Travel advice issued by Member States regarding the third country concerned should be taken into account , given that the reciprocal lifting of travel restrictions will likely lead to an increase of travel from the EU to the third country concerned .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be stable enough to exclude , with sufficient certainty , a large-scale repatriation of stranded citizens over the coming months .
The checklist is one more criterion , its purpose is to find common ground between Member States , and therefore a common approach within the EU+ area , with regard to the assessment whether the situation in a third country and measures taken to fight the virus are sufficient to lift the travel restriction on non-essential travel into the EU+ area .

Coronavirus-related restrictions should be lifted first with countries whose epidemiological situation is similar to the EU average.
The European Commission has explained the criteria that will be used to gradually reopen the external borders for third countries, including Ukraine, from July 1.
The decision to lift restrictions for a specific country should be based on the epidemiological situation and coronavirus response in that country, the ability to apply containment measures during travel, and whether or not that country has lifted travel restrictions towards the EU, the European Commission said on its website on June 11.
"Restrictions should be lifted first with countries whose epidemiological situation is similar to the EU average and where sufficient capabilities to deal with the virus are in place. Restrictions should remain in place for countries whose situation is worse than in the EU," it said.
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Read alsoHealth officials in Ukraine mull "certain measures" amid record daily spike in COVID-19 cases
Given that the health situation in certain third countries remains critical, the Commission does not propose a general lifting of the travel restriction at this stage. The restriction should be lifted for countries selected together by Member States, based on a set of principles and objective criteria including the health situation, the ability to apply containment measures during travel, and reciprocity considerations, taking into account data from relevant sources such as the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the World Health Organization.
Key criteria to be assessed in relation to a third country, based on available data from the country concerned, the ECDC and other sources, include: the number of new infections per 100,000 population; trend in new infection rate; and the country's overall response to COVID-19, taking into account available information on aspects such as testing, surveillance, contact tracing, containment, treatment, and reporting.
A precondition to lifting travel restrictions is the ability to ensure that containment measures, such as physical distancing, will be respected throughout a journey, from origin to destination, including during any possible transit via high-risk areas.
Another criterion is reciprocity and travel advice. Many third countries have also introduced travel restrictions to citizens coming from the EU. In order to have an equal treatment for EU citizens, the third country should also lift travel restrictions towards the EU in order to have the same or comparable travel arrangements with the EU. This should apply to all EU and Schengen States; it cannot be applied selectively.
Travel advice issued by Member States regarding the third country concerned should be taken into account, given that the reciprocal lifting of travel restrictions will likely lead to an increase of travel from the EU to the third country concerned. The epidemiological situation in the third country should be stable enough to exclude, with sufficient certainty, a large-scale repatriation of stranded citizens over the coming months.
The checklist is one more criterion, its purpose is to find common ground between Member States, and therefore a common approach within the EU+ area, with regard to the assessment whether the situation in a third country and measures taken to fight the virus are sufficient to lift the travel restriction on non-essential travel into the EU+ area.


unian--2020-06-11--Reuters: U.S. to give Ukraine US$250 mln in aid to deter Russia

The US $ 250 million can be used to build Ukraine 's lethal defense capabilities , air surveillance systems , special operations forces ' counter-artillery radars and tactical equipment .
The United States plans to give Ukraine US $ 250 million through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative for training and equipment to strengthen the country 's ability defend itself against Russia , the Pentagon said on Thursday .
The funds for fiscal 2020 are being sent to deter `` Russian aggression , '' the Pentagon said in a statement , Reuters reported .
The US $ 250 million can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ capabilities , air surveillance systems , special operations forces ' counter-artillery radars and tactical equipment as well as medical treatment , and cyber capabilities , among other needs , the Pentagon said .
The Pentagon said the aid `` reaffirms the long-standing defense relationship between the United States and Ukraine . ''
The United States says it has provided US $ 1.5 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since 2014 , when Russia annexed Ukraine 's Crimean Peninsula .
That assistance has expanded since U.S. President Donald Trump took office , including to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Lockheed Martin Co , that could be used against Russian-backed forces in conflict-hit east Ukraine .

The US$250 million can be used to build Ukraine's lethal defense capabilities, air surveillance systems, special operations forces' counter-artillery radars and tactical equipment.
The United States plans to give Ukraine US$250 million through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative for training and equipment to strengthen the country's ability defend itself against Russia, the Pentagon said on Thursday.
The funds for fiscal 2020 are being sent to deter "Russian aggression," the Pentagon said in a statement, Reuters reported.
Read alsoIMF approves 18-month US$5 bln Stand-By Arrangement for Ukraine
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The US$250 million can be used to build Ukraine's lethal defense capabilities, air surveillance systems, special operations forces' counter-artillery radars and tactical equipment as well as medical treatment, and cyber capabilities, among other needs, the Pentagon said.
The Pentagon said the aid "reaffirms the long-standing defense relationship between the United States and Ukraine."
The United States says it has provided US$1.5 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since 2014, when Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula.
That assistance has expanded since U.S. President Donald Trump took office, including to weaponry such as Javelin anti-tank missiles made by Lockheed Martin Co, that could be used against Russian-backed forces in conflict-hit east Ukraine.


unian--2020-06-11--Local elections in Ukraine may be postponed over coronavirus quarantine – PM Shmyhal

The top official assures there are funds for the elections .
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal says the local elections @ @ @ @ @ this year will be postponed if there are grounds for enforcing total quarantine over the @ @ @ @ @ are funds for the elections , we plan to hold these elections , '' he @ @ @ @ @ Days of Government '' press conference , adding the world now lives amid uncertainty over @ @ @ @ @ , according to an UNIAN correspondent .
`` If there are grounds in Ukraine for @ @ @ @ @ we will probably be forced to postpone these elections , but so far we hope @ @ @ @ @ regarding this disease quite effectively and this will let us hold the elections in October @ @ @ @ @ As UNIAN reported earlier , local polls to elect members of village , town , @ @ @ @ @ councils are scheduled for October 25 along with the election of village , town and @ @ @

The top official assures there are funds for the elections.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal says the local elections in Ukraine scheduled for October this year will be postponed if there are grounds for enforcing total quarantine over the coronavirus-related epidemic.
"There are funds for the elections, we plan to hold these elections," he said at the "100 Days of Government" press conference, adding the world now lives amid uncertainty over the spread of the coronavirus, according to an UNIAN correspondent.
Read alsoZelensky's bill on referendum: Scope of issues, online voting
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"If there are grounds in Ukraine for a total quarantine restriction, we will probably be forced to postpone these elections, but so far we hope we will manage adaptive mechanisms regarding this disease quite effectively and this will let us hold the elections in October," Shmyhal said.
As UNIAN reported earlier, local polls to elect members of village, town, city, district and regional councils are scheduled for October 25 along with the election of village, town and city mayors.


unian--2020-06-11--Zelensky still in lead of presidential rating, despite some slide in positions – poll

Had presidential elections been held early June , 25.7 % of all those polled would have voted for Zelensky .
Incumbent Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has lost some positions in popular ratings , while retaining a firm lead among possible competitors , according to a survey conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology ( KIIS ) .
Had presidential elections been held early June , the vote would have been as follows : 25.7 % would have voted for Zelensky , 11.1 % – for Petro Poroshenko , 9 % – for Yuriy Boyko , 6 % – for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ihor Smeshko , 3 % each for Anatoliy Hrytsenko and Oleh Liashko , 2.1 % – for Svyatoslav Vakarchuk , and 1.4 % –for Oleksandr Vilkul .
A mere 2.5 % would have cast their votes for other candidates , 2.6 % would cross out all candidates or spoil the ballot , 16.2 % remained undecided about their favorites , 1.6 % refused to answer the question , and 11.3 % said they would not go to the polls .
Read alsoPoroshenko could be arrested over alleged issue of `` criminal order '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the candidate to vote for ] , in fact , the indicators are the closest to the possible outcome of the elections if they had been held in early June .
The results would have been as follows : 37.6 % for Zelensky , 16.2 % for Poroshenko , 13.2 % for Boyko , 8.7 % for Tymoshenko , 6.8 % for Smeshko , 4.4 % for Hrytsenko , 4.4 % for Liashko , 3 % for Vakarchuk , 2 % for Vilkul , and 3.6 % for other candidates .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ via computer-assisted telephone interviews ( CATI ) based on a random selection of mobile phone numbers among the population aged 18 and older .
The sample is representative of age , gender , region and type of settlement ( except Russia-occupied Crimea and occupied territories in Donetsk and Luhansk regions ) .
The sample frame is 4,000 respondents .
The margin of error does not exceed 1.7 % .

Had presidential elections been held early June, 25.7% of all those polled would have voted for Zelensky.
Incumbent Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has lost some positions in popular ratings, while retaining a firm lead among possible competitors, according to a survey conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS).
Had presidential elections been held early June, the vote would have been as follows: 25.7% would have voted for Zelensky, 11.1% – for Petro Poroshenko, 9% – for Yuriy Boyko, 6% – for Yulia Tymoshenko, 4.6% – for Ihor Smeshko, 3% each for Anatoliy Hrytsenko and Oleh Liashko, 2.1% – for Svyatoslav Vakarchuk, and 1.4% –for Oleksandr Vilkul.
A mere 2.5% would have cast their votes for other candidates, 2.6% would cross out all candidates or spoil the ballot, 16.2% remained undecided about their favorites, 1.6% refused to answer the question, and 11.3% said they would not go to the polls.
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Read alsoPoroshenko could be arrested over alleged issue of "criminal order"
As for those who have decided [on the candidate to vote for], in fact, the indicators are the closest to the possible outcome of the elections if they had been held in early June. The results would have been as follows: 37.6% for Zelensky, 16.2% for Poroshenko, 13.2% for Boyko, 8.7% for Tymoshenko, 6.8% for Smeshko, 4.4% for Hrytsenko, 4.4% for Liashko, 3% for Vakarchuk, 2% for Vilkul, and 3.6% for other candidates.
The poll was conducted on May 24-June 4 via computer-assisted telephone interviews (CATI) based on a random selection of mobile phone numbers among the population aged 18 and older. The sample is representative of age, gender, region and type of settlement (except Russia-occupied Crimea and occupied territories in Donetsk and Luhansk regions). The sample frame is 4,000 respondents. The margin of error does not exceed 1.7%.


unian--2020-06-11--Georgian foreign ministry to summon Ukraine envoy over Saakashvili's statement

In May 2020 , President Volodymyr Zelensky by his decree appointed Mikheil Saakashvili chairman of the Executive Reform Committee , the advisory body created in 2014 .
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia intends to summon the Ambassador of Ukraine to Georgia due to statements voiced by Mikheil Saakashvili , former Georgian president who has recently been appointed to an advisory post in Ukraine 's reform sector .
According to Foreign Minister Davit Zalkaliani , Saakashvili 's statement is direct interference of a citizen of Ukraine in Georgia 's home affairs , reports Interpressnews .
Saakashvili last year regained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his Ukrainian passport by ex-president Petro Poroshenko .
`` We had a very serious approach to this issue and we summoned the ambassador for consultations .
This is what we were talking about and warned our Ukrainian colleagues .
There was an expectation that the person wanted in Georgia and appointed to a high position in Ukraine would continue to interfere in Georgia 's home affairs .
We warned them and expressed our concern .
The statement we heard is direct interference of a citizen of Ukraine in the home affairs of another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We will talk about it with the ambassador at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and we will ask for explanations because this is clearly direct interference of a high-ranking foreign official not just in home affairs of another country , but in the home affairs and election process of a strategic partner , '' Zalkaliani said .
`` I am not going to quietly watch the final destruction of Georgia .
I am not going to watch the destruction of Georgian families and their expulsion from the country .
Of course , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Of course , we are going to win .
We all need to stand together , it is not time to divide seats either now or in the future .
Those who want to help people need to stand together .
I , at least , will definitely be at the forefront of this fight .
It will be decided this year whether we will be slaves in Ivanishvili 's HPPs , bitcoin factories , gold mines or lands the rest of our lives , or proud citizens of a free country .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's elections whether Georgia will die or win .
There is no third option !
That is why we are , of course , getting ready for victory , '' the third President of Georgia , Mikheil Saakashvili , says in a video posted on his Facebook page .
Reports earlier claimed Saakashvili could be appointed Ukraine 's vice prime minister , while the ruling parliamentary faction showed no support for such move following their meeting with the former Georgian president , who had already held official posts in Ukraine , including that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ news on plans to offer Saaksashvili a senior government post sparked a row with Georgia , where its former president has been found guilty of a criminal offense and sentenced in absentia .
The incumbent President of Georgia , Salome Zurabishvili , on April 29 expressed concern about the news coming from Kyiv .
At the same time , she added that she wouldn ’ t want to undermine cooperation with Ukraine in joint efforts toward protecting territorial integrity and sovereignty .
`` I ca n't even imagine how anyone could be so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our states , neglect our institutions and insult our society , '' the Georgian leader said .
`` I hope that the joint past , present , and future of our fraternal nations will never be called into question , '' the Georgian president said .
In May 2020 , President Volodymyr Zelensky by his decree appointed Mikheil Saakashvili chairman of the Executive Reform Committee , the advisory body created in 2014 .

In May 2020, President Volodymyr Zelensky by his decree appointed Mikheil Saakashvili chairman of the Executive Reform Committee, the advisory body created in 2014.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia intends to summon the Ambassador of Ukraine to Georgia due to statements voiced by Mikheil Saakashvili, former Georgian president who has recently been appointed to an advisory post in Ukraine's reform sector.
According to Foreign Minister Davit Zalkaliani, Saakashvili's statement is direct interference of a citizen of Ukraine in Georgia's home affairs, reports Interpressnews.
Saakashvili last year regained Ukrainian citizenship after he was stripped of his Ukrainian passport by ex-president Petro Poroshenko.
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"We had a very serious approach to this issue and we summoned the ambassador for consultations. This is what we were talking about and warned our Ukrainian colleagues. There was an expectation that the person wanted in Georgia and appointed to a high position in Ukraine would continue to interfere in Georgia's home affairs.
We warned them and expressed our concern. The statement we heard is direct interference of a citizen of Ukraine in the home affairs of another country and directly in the election process. We will talk about it with the ambassador at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and we will ask for explanations because this is clearly direct interference of a high-ranking foreign official not just in home affairs of another country, but in the home affairs and election process of a strategic partner," Zalkaliani said.
Read alsoGeorgia's MFA: Return of ambassador depends on Ukrainian government's steps
"I am not going to quietly watch the final destruction of Georgia. I am not going to watch the destruction of Georgian families and their expulsion from the country. Of course, I am involved in this fight. Of course, we are going to win. We all need to stand together, it is not time to divide seats either now or in the future. Those who want to help people need to stand together. I, at least, will definitely be at the forefront of this fight. It will be decided this year whether we will be slaves in Ivanishvili's HPPs, bitcoin factories, gold mines or lands the rest of our lives, or proud citizens of a free country. It will be decided in this year's elections whether Georgia will die or win. There is no third option! That is why we are, of course, getting ready for victory," the third President of Georgia, Mikheil Saakashvili, says in a video posted on his Facebook page.
Reports earlier claimed Saakashvili could be appointed Ukraine's vice prime minister, while the ruling parliamentary faction showed no support for such move following their meeting with the former Georgian president, who had already held official posts in Ukraine, including that of Odesa region's Governor.
The news on plans to offer Saaksashvili a senior government post sparked a row with Georgia, where its former president has been found guilty of a criminal offense and sentenced in absentia.
The incumbent President of Georgia, Salome Zurabishvili, on April 29 expressed concern about the news coming from Kyiv. At the same time, she added that she wouldn’t want to undermine cooperation with Ukraine in joint efforts toward protecting territorial integrity and sovereignty.
"I can't even imagine how anyone could be so important as to jeopardize long-term relations between our states, neglect our institutions and insult our society," the Georgian leader said. "I hope that the joint past, present, and future of our fraternal nations will never be called into question," the Georgian president said.
In May 2020, President Volodymyr Zelensky by his decree appointed Mikheil Saakashvili chairman of the Executive Reform Committee, the advisory body created in 2014.


unian--2020-06-11--Rock star Vakarchuk stepping down as lawmaker, again

He hopes his resignation report will be considered soon .
Svyatoslav Vakarchuk , who has recently resigned as leader of the Holos ( Voice ) Party , is stepping down as a lawmaker .
`` Today I registered a statement on stepping down as a Ukrainian lawmaker .
It is registered , and I hope it will be duly considered in the near future , '' he told a briefing at Kyiv 's Mariyinsky Park on Thursday , according to an UNIAN correspondent .
According to LB.ua , a number of aspects led to the lawmaker making such a decision @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sign the submission on the immediate dismissal of Arsen Avakov from the Interior Ministry , and his party members were not happy about it .
However , MPs referred to this as `` working discussions . ''
At that moment , Vakarchuk was in the city Lviv visiting his mother .
Meanwhile , Vakarchuk retains his presence in the Holos Party .
Read alsoZelensky still in lead of presidential rating , despite some slide in positions – poll According to sources , he disengaged from participation in parliamentary and party life after Kira @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Also , sources in the party link Vakarchuk 's decision with the approaching local elections : `` some of us believe Holos needs more stringent positioning , and Svyatoslav 's position is thwarting this . ''
As UNIAN reported earlier , Vakarchuk had already resigned from parliament a year after his election as an MP of the Our Ukraine – People 's Self-Defense Party in 2007 .
During the parliamentary campaign in 2019 , Vakarchuk repeatedly said he was joining politics `` seriously and for long . ''

He hopes his resignation report will be considered soon.
Svyatoslav Vakarchuk, who has recently resigned as leader of the Holos (Voice) Party, is stepping down as a lawmaker.
"Today I registered a statement on stepping down as a Ukrainian lawmaker. It is registered, and I hope it will be duly considered in the near future," he told a briefing at Kyiv's Mariyinsky Park on Thursday, according to an UNIAN correspondent.
According to LB.ua, a number of aspects led to the lawmaker making such a decision. In particular, Vakarchuk refused to sign the submission on the immediate dismissal of Arsen Avakov from the Interior Ministry, and his party members were not happy about it. However, MPs referred to this as "working discussions." At that moment, Vakarchuk was in the city Lviv visiting his mother.
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Meanwhile, Vakarchuk retains his presence in the Holos Party.
Read alsoZelensky still in lead of presidential rating, despite some slide in positions – poll
According to sources, he disengaged from participation in parliamentary and party life after Kira Rudik was elected leader of Holos Party.
Also, sources in the party link Vakarchuk's decision with the approaching local elections: "some of us believe Holos needs more stringent positioning, and Svyatoslav's position is thwarting this."
As UNIAN reported earlier, Vakarchuk had already resigned from parliament a year after his election as an MP of the Our Ukraine – People's Self-Defense Party in 2007.
During the parliamentary campaign in 2019, Vakarchuk repeatedly said he was joining politics "seriously and for long."