unian--2020-12-29--Graduates from occupied territories may enter Ukrainian universities in 2021 – Reznikov

According to the official , it has become even easier than before .
Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories Oleksiy Reznikov says graduates from the Russia-occupied territories will be able to enter Ukrainian universities in 2021 .
According to the official , the procedure has become even easier than before .
`` Firstly , we have increased the number of educational institutions , thanks both to the Education Ministry for the partnership and the specialized parliamentary committee .
If I am not mistaken , over 90 educational institutions accept our youth from the temporarily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ testing .
What is more , we have received additional funding in the 2021 budget for the possibility of preparing future students for training since we need to help them with the Ukrainian language , etc.
, '' he told the Ukrainian TSN news service in an interview .
Read alsoNearly 2,000 applicants from occupied areas enrolled in Ukraine universitiesReznikov added there were two centers [ educational centers for work with applicants from the occupied territories ] in Ukraine , namely Donbass-Ukraine and Crimea-Ukraine .
`` We are now consulting on the possibility @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is no difference here since they are engaged in the same thing .
Moreover , there was no division for entry this year – universities are the same for Donbass-Ukraine and Crimea-Ukraine .
The ministry 's policy is not to divide .
Therefore , Crimea and certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions are occupied territories in Ukraine , and our citizens are hostages there .
They equally need our protection and our help , '' the minister said .
• Education institutions in ORDO switching to distance learning over COVID-19

According to the official, it has become even easier than before.
Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories Oleksiy Reznikov says graduates from the Russia-occupied territories will be able to enter Ukrainian universities in 2021.
According to the official, the procedure has become even easier than before.
"Firstly, we have increased the number of educational institutions, thanks both to the Education Ministry for the partnership and the specialized parliamentary committee. If I am not mistaken, over 90 educational institutions accept our youth from the temporarily occupied territories for training without external independent testing. What is more, we have received additional funding in the 2021 budget for the possibility of preparing future students for training since we need to help them with the Ukrainian language, etc.," he told the Ukrainian TSN news service in an interview.
Read alsoNearly 2,000 applicants from occupied areas enrolled in Ukraine universitiesReznikov added there were two centers [educational centers for work with applicants from the occupied territories] in Ukraine, namely Donbass-Ukraine and Crimea-Ukraine.
"We are now consulting on the possibility of making one legal entity, there is no difference here since they are engaged in the same thing. Moreover, there was no division for entry this year – universities are the same for Donbass-Ukraine and Crimea-Ukraine. The ministry's policy is not to divide. Therefore, Crimea and certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions are occupied territories in Ukraine, and our citizens are hostages there. They equally need our protection and our help," the minister said.
More news reports


unian--2020-12-29--Belarus launches mass COVID-19 vaccination with Russian Sputnik V – media

It became the first country to start a large-scale vaccination campaign , using the Russian Sputnik V vaccine .
Belarus ' Healthcare Ministry , Russia 's Ministry of Health and the Russian Direct Investment Fund ( RDIF ) have announced the launch of a COVID-19 vaccination program in Belarus .
The first batch of the Russian Sputnik V vaccine has arrived in Belarus today , the official BelTA news agency reported with reference to the Healthcare Ministry 's press service .
`` A new stage – mass vaccination against COVID-19 – will kick off today .
Healthcare professionals , teachers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their profession , come into contact with people a lot will be the first to get vaccinated .
Vaccination will be voluntary , '' Belarus ' Healthcare Minister Dmitry Pinevich said .
Read alsoRazumkov doubts effectiveness of Russia 's COVID-19 vaccine ( Video ) According to him , Belarus has set up a vaccine storage system to keep the cold chain , purchased special medical freezer equipment to transport the vaccine .
Thus , Belarus became the first country to start a large-scale vaccination campaign , using the Russian Sputnik V vaccine .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ known • In August , Russia announced the registration of the `` world 's first '' vaccine against COVID-19 , it was allegedly tested by one of Putin 's daughters .
• Moscow has not provided the international scientific community with any data on vaccine trials that would confirm that it is safe and effective against COVID-19 .
The third stage of clinical trials of the vaccine has not been conducted prior to registration .
• At the same time , an international team of researchers expressed concern about possible inaccuracies in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Some graphs contain suspicious repetitions , and there is not enough data to verify the results .
• However , Russians rated their controversial coronavirus vaccine as effective as 92 % .
• In early December , Putin announced plans to launch a large-scale campaign to vaccinate healthcare workers and teachers against the coronavirus .

It became the first country to start a large-scale vaccination campaign, using the Russian Sputnik V vaccine.
Belarus' Healthcare Ministry, Russia's Ministry of Health and the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) have announced the launch of a COVID-19 vaccination program in Belarus.
The first batch of the Russian Sputnik V vaccine has arrived in Belarus today, the official BelTA news agency reported with reference to the Healthcare Ministry's press service.
"A new stage – mass vaccination against COVID-19 – will kick off today. Healthcare professionals, teachers and specialists who, as part of their profession, come into contact with people a lot will be the first to get vaccinated. Vaccination will be voluntary," Belarus' Healthcare Minister Dmitry Pinevich said.
Видео дня
Read alsoRazumkov doubts effectiveness of Russia's COVID-19 vaccine (Video)According to him, Belarus has set up a vaccine storage system to keep the cold chain, purchased special medical freezer equipment to transport the vaccine.
Thus, Belarus became the first country to start a large-scale vaccination campaign, using the Russian Sputnik V vaccine.
Russian vaccine against coronavirus: What is known


unian--2020-12-29--Even heavy precipitation not to help solve water shortage in occupied Crimea – expert

The precipitation is not runoff-forming , the expert says .
Deputy Director of the Ukrainian Institute of Water Problems and Land Reclamation Mykhailo Yatsiuk says water reservoirs in occupied Crimea will not be filled next year even if there is heavy precipitation in winter and spring .
`` The precipitation that falls is in fact not runoff-forming , it mainly moistens the area and replenishes the moisture reserves in the soil , but it does not form run-off .
And this is clearly noticeable in the problems the Crimean authorities are facing now , '' he told RFE/RL 's Krym.Realii @ @ @ @ @ @ @ water shortage in Crimea in 2020 would affect the water supply there in the coming years .
Lack of fresh water in Crimea : What is known • As of August 24 , restrictions on the water supply are in effect in the city of Simferopol and 39 other settlements of the Simferopol and Bakhchisarai districts due to drought and shallowing of reservoirs .
Fresh water is supplied to residents by the hour , namely in the morning and in the evening .
On September 23 , restrictive measures for the water supply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Partenit , and Maly Mayak .
Also , water is delivered in water tanks to 29 villages in northern Crimea over dried wells .
• The occupying authorities of Crimea announced they were preparing for a `` worst-case scenario '' with the water supply onto the peninsula .
• Prior to the occupation of Crimea by Russia , Ukraine used to cover up to 85 % of the peninsula 's needs for freshwater through the North Crimean Canal .
• After the annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014 , Ukraine severed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • The Ukrainian authorities claim the resumption of water supplies to Crimea would be possible only in the context of the end of the Russian occupation .

The precipitation is not runoff-forming, the expert says.
Deputy Director of the Ukrainian Institute of Water Problems and Land Reclamation Mykhailo Yatsiuk says water reservoirs in occupied Crimea will not be filled next year even if there is heavy precipitation in winter and spring.
"The precipitation that falls is in fact not runoff-forming, it mainly moistens the area and replenishes the moisture reserves in the soil, but it does not form run-off. And this is clearly noticeable in the problems the Crimean authorities are facing now," he told RFE/RL's Krym.Realii media project.
Yatsiuk also stressed the water shortage in Crimea in 2020 would affect the water supply there in the coming years.
Видео дня
Read also Crimea blogger posts photos of previously deepest water reservoir on peninsula Lack of fresh water in Crimea: What is known


unian--2020-12-29--About 300,000 Ukrainians forced to obtain Russian passports in occupied Donbas – Reznikov

The official says he is convinced Ukraine has no right to condemn such citizens .
Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories Oleksiy Reznikov says about 300,000 Ukrainians have been forced to obtain Russian passports in occupied Donbas since this is the way for them to survive in those territories .
`` As of today , in fact , all the citizens of Ukraine who are in the temporarily occupied territories are hostages of the occupation regime .
About 300,000 Ukrainians have gone through a forced Russian passportization procedure .
I am now talking about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Crimea , the figures are reaching 2 million there , '' he told the Ukrainian TSN news service in an interview .
Reznikov is convinced Ukraine has no right to condemn such citizens .
`` We 've failed to protect them .
The defense capacity of Ukraine as the state was not enough in 2014 to rebuff this aggression so that people would not be taken hostage .
Therefore , the state must find a mechanism how to deal with these consequences later , '' the official said .
According to Reznikov @ @ @ @ @ @ @ law on the state policy of the transition period , which will take into account the issue of forced passportization .
• On November 5 , the Ukrainian delegation to the Trilateral Contact Group outlined five key points of a new action plan for Donbas : • Withdrawal of foreign troops , illegal armed groups , and mercenaries from the territory of Ukraine in early 2021 ; • Cancellation by Russian authorities of a number of decisions and documents that are direct interference in the life of the occupied parts of Donbas , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ procedure for local residents ; • Restoration of control over the corresponding section of the Russian-Ukrainian border with the help of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission ; and • Fourfold increase in the size of the OSCE SMM mission ( by 1,500 persons ) .
• Only if the first four conditions are met , comes the fifth point : - Preparation and holding of local elections in the occupied districts of Donetsk and Luhansk region ( with the OSCE 's assistance ) .

The official says he is convinced Ukraine has no right to condemn such citizens.
Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories Oleksiy Reznikov says about 300,000 Ukrainians have been forced to obtain Russian passports in occupied Donbas since this is the way for them to survive in those territories.
"As of today, in fact, all the citizens of Ukraine who are in the temporarily occupied territories are hostages of the occupation regime. About 300,000 Ukrainians have gone through a forced Russian passportization procedure. I am now talking about occupied Donetsk and Luhansk regions. As for Crimea, the figures are reaching 2 million there," he told the Ukrainian TSN news service in an interview.
Reznikov is convinced Ukraine has no right to condemn such citizens.
Видео дня
"We've failed to protect them. The defense capacity of Ukraine as the state was not enough in 2014 to rebuff this aggression so that people would not be taken hostage. Therefore, the state must find a mechanism how to deal with these consequences later," the official said.
According to Reznikov, the government is developing a draft law on the state policy of the transition period, which will take into account the issue of forced passportization.
Read also Ukraine preparing sanctions against Russia over Crimean winery – Reznikov Ukraine's Plan for Donbas: Five key points
On November 5, the Ukrainian delegation to the Trilateral Contact Group outlined five key points of a new action plan for Donbas:
Withdrawal of foreign troops, illegal armed groups, and mercenaries from the territory of Ukraine in early 2021;
Cancellation by Russian authorities of a number of decisions and documents that are direct interference in the life of the occupied parts of Donbas, for example, on the streamlined naturalization procedure for local residents;
Restoration of control over the corresponding section of the Russian-Ukrainian border with the help of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission; and
Fourfold increase in the size of the OSCE SMM mission (by 1,500 persons).
Only if the first four conditions are met, comes the fifth point:
- Preparation and holding of local elections in the occupied districts of Donetsk and Luhansk region (with the OSCE's assistance).


unian--2020-12-29--Kyiv mayor reports over 900 new COVID-19 cases, 21 deaths as of Dec 29

The total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the city is 109,008 .
Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko said 953 new active COVID-19 cases had been confirmed in the city in the past 24 hours as of December 29 , 2020 .
`` In the past day , another 953 residents of Kyiv tested positive for the coronavirus , including 31 healthcare workers .
There were 21 fatalities , '' Klitschko reported via Telegram on Tuesday .
According to the city mayor , 542 women aged 18 to 91 and 350 men aged 18 to 87 are among those infected .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ up January lockdown plansThe new cases include 26 girls aged eight months to 17 years and 35 boys aged two months to 17 years .
Klitschko said 57 new patients had been hospitalized , while the rest were self-isolating , undergoing treatment at home under medical supervision .
He added that 556 people had recovered in the past day .
In total , 38,017 Kyiv residents have already beaten the disease .
The highest number of the new cases in Kyiv was registered in Darnytsky district ( 287 ) , Dniprovsky district ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 107 ) .
The death toll in the city stands at 1,875 .
• Ukraine said 6,988 new active COVID-19 cases had been confirmed across the country in the past 24 hours as of December 29 , 2020 , • The total number of confirmed cases grew to 1,037,362 .

The total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the city is 109,008.
Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko said 953 new active COVID-19 cases had been confirmed in the city in the past 24 hours as of December 29, 2020.
"In the past day, another 953 residents of Kyiv tested positive for the coronavirus, including 31 healthcare workers. There were 21 fatalities," Klitschko reported via Telegram on Tuesday.
"As of today, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the city is 109,008."
According to the city mayor, 542 women aged 18 to 91 and 350 men aged 18 to 87 are among those infected.
Read alsoUkraine's government not to give up January lockdown plansThe new cases include 26 girls aged eight months to 17 years and 35 boys aged two months to 17 years.
Klitschko said 57 new patients had been hospitalized, while the rest were self-isolating, undergoing treatment at home under medical supervision.
He added that 556 people had recovered in the past day.
In total, 38,017 Kyiv residents have already beaten the disease.
The highest number of the new cases in Kyiv was registered in Darnytsky district (287), Dniprovsky district (141), and Sviatoshynsky district (107).
The death toll in the city stands at 1,875.
COVID-19 in Ukraine: Latest developments


unian--2020-12-29--PS752 downing: Ukraine takes tough stance in talks with Iran – FM Kuleba

Ukraine will seek justice for the victims of the tragedy .
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba says Ukraine has taken a tough stance in talks with Iran on the case of the downing of Ukraine International Airlines ( UIA ) flight PS752 by the Iranian military in January 2020 .
`` Iran is a tough negotiator , but Ukraine is also a tough negotiator .
We will not allow them to pay their way out and avoid justice in this story .
If we were not a tough negotiator , Iran might have already achieved something .
But we stick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inevitable .
We will achieve it .
It may take time , '' he told the Den ( Day ) newspaper in an interview .
`` But I want to say Ukraine does not act on its own in this story .
We have a partnership of the affected countries .
We speak on their behalf and with a common position that should be coordinated , '' Kuleba said .
The minister stressed everything would be done to make justice in this case `` inevitable . ''
• On January 8 , 2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PS752 , operated by Ukraine International Airlines , crashed in Iran shortly after takeoff from Tehran Airport .
• All 176 people on board , including 11 Ukrainian nationals – nine crew and two passengers – were killed .
Among victims are also citizens of Iran , Canada , Sweden , Afghanistan , Germany , and the UK .
• Iranian President Hassan Rouhani admitted that the Ukrainian liner had been shot down as a result of an unintentional `` human error , '' and promised to bring those responsible to justice .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Iran had accused six persons in the PS752 downing case .
• On July 20 , the flight recorders were delivered to Paris and decrypted on July 21 .
• On July 24 , it was reported that data from the black boxes had confirmed external interference with the aircraft 's operation .
• On October 23 , Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Yevhen Yenin said Iran would pay compensation to the relatives of victims of the UIA flight PS752 crash , but the process might last up to two years .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said that Iran had withdrawn the offer to handle the payments to the families of those killed in the UIA plane crash .
• In the middle of December , Canada expressed its position on the Iranian investigation into the downing of the Ukrainian plane , saying it is not credible .
• On December 22 , the Iranian news agency Tasnim reported that Iranian investigators , during a video conference , had provided representatives of other countries whose citizens were victims of the crash with a technical report on the UIA downing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said that Ukraine had not received the report .
• On December 24 , Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba expressed concern that Iran was delaying the negotiation process on the case of the downed Ukraine International Airlines plane .
He noted that Ukraine had not received a technical report from Iran on the plane downed almost a year ago .

Ukraine will seek justice for the victims of the tragedy.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba says Ukraine has taken a tough stance in talks with Iran on the case of the downing of Ukraine International Airlines (UIA) flight PS752 by the Iranian military in January 2020.
"Iran is a tough negotiator, but Ukraine is also a tough negotiator. We will not allow them to pay their way out and avoid justice in this story. If we were not a tough negotiator, Iran might have already achieved something. But we stick to our positions. And justice is inevitable. We will achieve it. It may take time," he told the Den (Day) newspaper in an interview.
"But I want to say Ukraine does not act on its own in this story. We have a partnership of the affected countries. We speak on their behalf and with a common position that should be coordinated," Kuleba said.
The minister stressed everything would be done to make justice in this case "inevitable."
Read also Iran insists Ukraine provided with technical report on downed UIA plane PS752 downing in Iran: Background


unian--2020-12-29--Ukraine reports 91 new COVID-19 cases in armed forces as of Dec 29

Some 217 servicemen are now isolated ( including self-isolation ) .
The number of COVID-19 coronavirus cases registered in the Armed Forces of Ukraine rose by 91 as of the morning of December 29 .
`` As of 10:00 Kyiv time on December 29 , some 2,036 people in the Armed Forces of Ukraine had acute respiratory illness COVID-19 caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus .
In total , 11,678 people have recovered and 37 have died during the pandemic , '' the press service of the Medical Force Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine wrote on Facebook on Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were registered in the past 24 hours . ''
Read alsoUkraine 's government not to give up January lockdown plansOf those newly-infected , 14 people have been hospitalized , while another 77 are self-isolating , undergoing treatment at home under doctors ' supervision .
Currently , their state of health is satisfactory .
Some 217 servicemen are now isolated ( including self-isolation ) .
The number of those whose isolation term is expiring in the next three days is 110 people .
• Ukraine said 6,988 new active COVID-19 cases had been confirmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hours as of December 29 , 2020 , • The total number of confirmed cases grew to 1,037,362 .

Some 217 servicemen are now isolated (including self-isolation).
The number of COVID-19 coronavirus cases registered in the Armed Forces of Ukraine rose by 91 as of the morning of December 29.
"As of 10:00 Kyiv time on December 29, some 2,036 people in the Armed Forces of Ukraine had acute respiratory illness COVID-19 caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. In total, 11,678 people have recovered and 37 have died during the pandemic," the press service of the Medical Force Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine wrote on Facebook on Tuesday. "Some 91 new COVID-19 cases were registered in the past 24 hours."
Read alsoUkraine's government not to give up January lockdown plansOf those newly-infected, 14 people have been hospitalized, while another 77 are self-isolating, undergoing treatment at home under doctors' supervision. Currently, their state of health is satisfactory.
Видео дня
Some 217 servicemen are now isolated (including self-isolation). The number of those whose isolation term is expiring in the next three days is 110 people.
COVID-19 in Ukraine: Latest developments


unian--2020-12-29--Number of COVID-19 cases confirmed worldwide exceeds 81.3 mln

The overall death toll is 1,775,661 people , while 46,054,686 coronavirus patients have already recovered .
The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the world exceeded 81.3 million patients as of December 29 .
Read alsoEurope launches vaccination program in bid to leave pandemic behind – mediaAs many as 81,338,464 laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases had been reported as of 10:22 on December 29 , according to the Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases dashboard by the Center for Systems Science and Engineering ( CSSE ) at Johns Hopkins University .
The overall death toll is 1,775,661 people , while 46,054,686 coronavirus patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ toll was recorded in the United States ( 334,963 people ) , Brazil ( 191,570 ) , India ( 148,153 ) , Mexico ( 122,855 ) , Italy ( 72,370 ) , the United Kingdom ( 71,217 ) , and France ( 63,235 ) .
The countries most affected by the coronavirus pandemic include the United States ( 19,308,467 confirmed cases ) , India ( 10,224,303 ) , Brazil ( 7,504,833 ) , Russia ( 3,073,923 ) , France ( 2,619,616 ) , the United Kingdom ( 2,336,704 ) , and Turkey ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ countries have been affected by the virus .

The overall death toll is 1,775,661 people, while 46,054,686 coronavirus patients have already recovered.
The total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the world exceeded 81.3 million patients as of December 29.
Read alsoEurope launches vaccination program in bid to leave pandemic behind – mediaAs many as 81,338,464 laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases had been reported as of 10:22 on December 29, according to the Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases dashboard by the Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) at Johns Hopkins University.
The overall death toll is 1,775,661 people, while 46,054,686 coronavirus patients have already recovered.
Видео дня
The highest death toll was recorded in the United States (334,963 people), Brazil (191,570), India (148,153), Mexico (122,855), Italy (72,370), the United Kingdom (71,217), and France (63,235).
The countries most affected by the coronavirus pandemic include the United States (19,308,467 confirmed cases), India (10,224,303), Brazil (7,504,833), Russia (3,073,923), France (2,619,616), the United Kingdom (2,336,704), and Turkey (2,162,775).
As many as 191 countries have been affected by the virus.


unian--2020-12-29--Hryvnia weakens to U.S. dollar on Dec 29

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unian--2020-12-29--Donbas warzone update: One WIA amid 13 truce violations on Dec 28

No enemy attacks have been reported since midnight .
The Command of Ukraine 's Armed Forces has reported one soldier wounded in action ( WIA ) amid 13 violations of the latest ceasefire agreement committed by Russia-controlled armed groups in the Donbas warzone on Monday , December 28 .
`` In the past day , December 28 , thirteen ceasefire violations were recorded in the area the Joint Forces Operation ( JFO ) , '' the press center of the Ukrainian JFO Command wrote on Facebook in an update as of 07:00 Kyiv time on December 29 , 2020 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 120mm mortars and grenade launchers outside the village of Vodiane .
An enemy UAV had been spotted crossing the contact line in that area before it was jammed .
Read alsoUkraine sends note to OSCE monitors over Ukrainian soldier 's injury in DonbasThe Russian Federation 's armed formations also fired 82mm mortars and heavy machine guns near the village of Pivdenne .
What is more , Russia-led forces fired grenade launchers of various systems near the towns of Maryinka and Avdiyivka , as well as automatic grenade launchers and heavy machine guns near @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grenade launchers and automatic rifles were used against Ukrainian troops near the village of Novo-Oleksandrivka .
`` The enemy also used rifles near the village of Chermalyk .
One our soldier was wounded amid the shooting .
The soldier was rushed to hospital and provided with medical care , '' the update said .
The violations were reported to OSCE representatives through the Joint Center for Control and Coordination ( JCCC ) of the ceasefire in Donbas .
No enemy attacks have been reported since midnight .
The situation is under full control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Trilateral Contact Group ( Ukraine , Russia , and the OSCE ) on the peace settlement in Donbas on July 22 agreed on a full and comprehensive ceasefire along the contact line from 00:01 on Monday , July 27 .
• On the very first day of the newly-agreed truce , Russia 's hybrid military forces mounted three attacks on Ukrainian positions in Donbas , eastern Ukraine .
Ukraine has reported more such violations over the latest period .

No enemy attacks have been reported since midnight.
The Command of Ukraine's Armed Forces has reported one soldier wounded in action (WIA) amid 13 violations of the latest ceasefire agreement committed by Russia-controlled armed groups in the Donbas warzone on Monday, December 28.
"In the past day, December 28, thirteen ceasefire violations were recorded in the area the Joint Forces Operation (JFO)," the press center of the Ukrainian JFO Command wrote on Facebook in an update as of 07:00 Kyiv time on December 29, 2020.
In particular, enemy troops fired proscribed 120mm mortars and grenade launchers outside the village of Vodiane.
Видео дня
An enemy UAV had been spotted crossing the contact line in that area before it was jammed.
Read alsoUkraine sends note to OSCE monitors over Ukrainian soldier's injury in DonbasThe Russian Federation's armed formations also fired 82mm mortars and heavy machine guns near the village of Pivdenne.
What is more, Russia-led forces fired grenade launchers of various systems near the towns of Maryinka and Avdiyivka, as well as automatic grenade launchers and heavy machine guns near the town of Svitlodarsk. Hand-held anti-tank grenade launchers and automatic rifles were used against Ukrainian troops near the village of Novo-Oleksandrivka.
"The enemy also used rifles near the village of Chermalyk. One our soldier was wounded amid the shooting. The soldier was rushed to hospital and provided with medical care," the update said.
The violations were reported to OSCE representatives through the Joint Center for Control and Coordination (JCCC) of the ceasefire in Donbas.
No enemy attacks have been reported since midnight.
The situation is under full control of the Ukrainian military.
Donbas ceasefire: Background


unian--2020-12-29--Almost 7,000 new COVID-19 cases confirmed in Ukraine as of Dec 29

The total number of confirmed cases has reached 1,037,362 .
Ukraine said 6,988 new active COVID-19 cases had been confirmed across the country in the past 24 hours as of December 29 , 2020 , The total number of confirmed cases grew to 1,037,362 as of December 29 , 2020 , according to the interactive map compiled by the National Security and Defense Council .
As many as 681,835 patients , including 16,106 in the past day , have recovered .
Read alsoScientist says first COVID-19 wave likely to be over in UkraineThe death toll has hit 18,081 with 232 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The government reported 337,446 active cases as of December 29 .
In total , there have been 1,135,119 reports on suspected COVID-19 since the beginning of 2020 .
`` In the past day , 6,988 people tested positive for the coronavirus , including 324 children and 337 healthcare workers .
Some 1,298 new patients were hospitalized , '' Ukrainian Health Minister Maksym Stepanov wrote on Facebook on Tuesday .
In total , 43,585 tests were conducted in the country in the past day .
In particular , there were 25,965 PCR ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as well as 17,620 ELISA ( enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay ) tests .
The highest number of new confirmed cases in the past 24 hours was registered the city of Kyiv ( 953 ) , Odesa region ( 729 ) , Poltava region ( 644 ) , Lviv region ( 555 ) , and Zaporizhia region ( 514 ) .
Data from Russia-occupied areas – the Autonomous Republic of Crimea , the city of Sevastopol , parts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions – is not available .
• Ukraine 's government not to give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says over 70 % of beds in hospitals have oxygen supply • Minister Kuleba says China ready to supply COVID-19 vaccine to Ukraine

The total number of confirmed cases has reached 1,037,362.
Ukraine said 6,988 new active COVID-19 cases had been confirmed across the country in the past 24 hours as of December 29, 2020,
The total number of confirmed cases grew to 1,037,362 as of December 29, 2020, according to the interactive map compiled by the National Security and Defense Council.
As many as 681,835 patients, including 16,106 in the past day, have recovered.
Видео дня
Read alsoScientist says first COVID-19 wave likely to be over in UkraineThe death toll has hit 18,081 with 232 fatalities recorded in the past 24 hours.
The government reported 337,446 active cases as of December 29. In total, there have been 1,135,119 reports on suspected COVID-19 since the beginning of 2020.
"In the past day, 6,988 people tested positive for the coronavirus, including 324 children and 337 healthcare workers. Some 1,298 new patients were hospitalized," Ukrainian Health Minister Maksym Stepanov wrote on Facebook on Tuesday.
In total, 43,585 tests were conducted in the country in the past day. In particular, there were 25,965 PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests run, as well as 17,620 ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) tests.
The highest number of new confirmed cases in the past 24 hours was registered the city of Kyiv (953), Odesa region (729), Poltava region (644), Lviv region (555), and Zaporizhia region (514).
Data from Russia-occupied areas – the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, the city of Sevastopol, parts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions – is not available.


unian--2020-12-29--Reuters: Oil rises on hopes U.S. pandemic stimulus to spur fuel demand

Forecasts for tightening U.S. crude oil stocks also added support to prices .
Oil rose on Tuesday , for the third time in four sessions , on expectations for rising fuel demand as the United States may expand their pandemic aid payments and a final Brexit deal is set to stabilize trade between Europe and the UK .
Brent crude climbed 23 cents , or 0.5 % , to $ 51.09 a barrel , as of 0410 GMT and U.S. West Texas Intermediate ( WTI ) crude futures added 23 cents , or 0.5 % , to $ 47.85 a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Read alsoGas stocks shrink by 2.6 % to 24.1 bcm over weekCrude rose along with a gains in Asian shares , with Japanese stocks hitting a 30-year high , on rising investor risk appetite as the U.S. House of Representatives voted to raise pandemic relief payments to $ 2,000 from $ 600 .
The Senate still needs to vote on the measure .
Forecasts for tightening U.S. crude oil stocks also added support to prices .
A Jan. 4 meeting of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries ( OPEC ) and allies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OPEC+ , also looms over the market .
OPEC+ is tapering record oil output cuts made this year to support the market .
The group is set to boost output by 500,000 barrels per day ( bpd ) in January and Russia supports another increase of the same amount in February .
• Trump vetoes Defense Authorization Act for 2021 with US $ 250 mln in aid for Ukraine 's army • Naftogaz to raise gas price for households by over 14 % in Jan • Ceiling price of natural gas for households @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jan

Forecasts for tightening U.S. crude oil stocks also added support to prices.
Oil rose on Tuesday, for the third time in four sessions, on expectations for rising fuel demand as the United States may expand their pandemic aid payments and a final Brexit deal is set to stabilize trade between Europe and the UK.
Brent crude climbed 23 cents, or 0.5%, to $51.09 a barrel, as of 0410 GMT and U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures added 23 cents, or 0.5%, to $47.85 a barrel, as reported by Reuters.
Read alsoGas stocks shrink by 2.6% to 24.1 bcm over weekCrude rose along with a gains in Asian shares, with Japanese stocks hitting a 30-year high, on rising investor risk appetite as the U.S. House of Representatives voted to raise pandemic relief payments to $2,000 from $600. The Senate still needs to vote on the measure.
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Forecasts for tightening U.S. crude oil stocks also added support to prices.
A Jan. 4 meeting of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and allies including Russia, a group known as OPEC+, also looms over the market.
OPEC+ is tapering record oil output cuts made this year to support the market. The group is set to boost output by 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) in January and Russia supports another increase of the same amount in February.
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unian--2020-12-29--Rada could introduce tougher punishment for hoax bomb threat reports

The Committee recommends that the Parliament increase liability for such deliberate fake reporting of a `` threat to public safety '' .
The Parliamentary Committee on Law Enforcement Affairs has invited the Verkhovna Rada to pass legislation envisaging tougher punishment for fake reporting of bomb threats at public transport and other critical infrastructure .
The draft in question is Bill `` On Amendments to Article 259 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine regarding the strengthening of liability for a deliberately false reporting of a threat to public safety '' ( No 3911 ) , the parliament 's press service reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ providing for 2-6 years in prison for perpetrators , confiscation of property could be introduced .
In case of a repeated offense or if critical infrastructure , government offices , healthcare , and education facilities are targeted in the hoax call , culprits could be facing four to eight years behind bars , also with possible confiscation of property .
Read alsoRussia 's FSB digging up dirt on Ukraine 's intelligence chief ( Wiretap records ) Also , Article 259 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine is supplemented with a memo defining the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such facilities include enterprises , institutions and organizations , regardless of their form of ownership ( whose operations are directly related to technological processes and/or provision of services ) that are of great importance for the economy and industry , as well as for public safety .
On this occasion , National Police data are cited : in the first quarter of 2020 alone , 213 cases were opened under Article 259 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine , and the numbers are growing .
At the same time , hoax calls have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'threats '' at multiple critical locations simultaneously .
`` Disabling or disrupting the functioning of such [ critical ] facilities could affect national security and defense of Ukraine , as well as the environment , cause property damage , and pose a threat to human lives and health .
Law enforcement are forced to respond to each such report , attracting special equipment and personnel in significant numbers , distracting them from performing basic formal tasks , '' the National Police said .
On November 4 , the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted @ @ @ @ @ @

The Committee recommends that the Parliament increase liability for such deliberate fake reporting of a "threat to public safety".
The Parliamentary Committee on Law Enforcement Affairs has invited the Verkhovna Rada to pass legislation envisaging tougher punishment for fake reporting of bomb threats at public transport and other critical infrastructure.
The draft in question is Bill "On Amendments to Article 259 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine regarding the strengthening of liability for a deliberately false reporting of a threat to public safety" (No 3911), the parliament's press service reported on Facebook.
Besides the existing norm providing for 2-6 years in prison for perpetrators, confiscation of property could be introduced. In case of a repeated offense or if critical infrastructure, government offices, healthcare, and education facilities are targeted in the hoax call, culprits could be facing four to eight years behind bars, also with possible confiscation of property.
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Read alsoRussia's FSB digging up dirt on Ukraine's intelligence chief (Wiretap records)Also, Article 259 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine is supplemented with a memo defining the term "critical infrastructure facilities": such facilities include enterprises, institutions and organizations, regardless of their form of ownership (whose operations are directly related to technological processes and/or provision of services) that are of great importance for the economy and industry, as well as for public safety.
On this occasion, National Police data are cited: in the first quarter of 2020 alone, 213 cases were opened under Article 259 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, and the numbers are growing. At the same time, hoax calls have gotten more complicated as perpetrators report "'threats" at multiple critical locations simultaneously.
"Disabling or disrupting the functioning of such [critical] facilities could affect national security and defense of Ukraine, as well as the environment, cause property damage, and pose a threat to human lives and health. Law enforcement are forced to respond to each such report, attracting special equipment and personnel in significant numbers, distracting them from performing basic formal tasks," the National Police said.
On November 4, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted the bill at first reading.


unian--2020-12-29--Mounting debt: Finance ministry borrows another US$851 mln

Eight security packages have been issued in hryvnias , as well as one in U.S. dollars .
The Ministry of Finance borrowed UAH 23.644 billion , or US $ 851.4 million , to the state budget at the latest weekly auction selling off government domestic loan bonds , held on December 29 , As reported on the ministry 's website , funds in hryvnias were raised through the sale of eight packages of securities worth UAH 5.17 billion ( $ 183.4 million ) , UAH 858.56 million ( $ 30.46 million ) , UAH 5.77 billion ( $ 204.7 million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 35.15 million ) , UAH 653.13 million ( $ 23.17 million ) , UAH 611.2 million ( $ 21.7 million ) , UAH 103.69 million ( $ 3.68 million ) and UAH 324.57 million ( $ 11.51 million ) with of 77- , 189- , 336- , 532- , 777- , 1,036- , 1,239- , and 1,519-day maturity periods , respectively .
Read alsoMacroeconomic outlook for 2021 : GDP growth at 4 % with moderate inflationFunds in dollars were raised as a result of the sale of bonds worth $ 322.85 million with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weighted average yield of 2.90 % per annum .
In late April , the Finance Ministry returned to the domestic borrowing market after a few weeks off , having resumed weekly auctions to place government domestic loan bonds .
In January-November 2020 , the ministry raised UAH 171.7 billion ( US $ 6.1 billion ) to the state budget , as well as US $ 2.9 billion and EUR 788 million .

Mounting debt: Finance ministry borrows another US$851 mln
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Eight security packages have been issued in hryvnias, as well as one in U.S. dollars.
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unian--2020-12-29--Ukraine finalizes prisoner swap list

Ukraine finalizes prisoner swap list

Ukraine on December 29 has completed the list of 251 persons held in the occupied part of Donbas for the next prisoner swap effort with the Russian proxy forces .
That 's according to Ukraine 's Ombudsperson Liudmyla Denisova , who spoke on the air of Ukraine 24 TV channel .
The list includes civilians , military , and volunteers , the human rights envoy explained .
`` It 's 251 people – confirmation has come through the SBU 's center for prisoner release .
Among them are 34 military , the rest are civilians and four volunteers .
These @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , confirmed by the SBU through citizens ' appeals , through witnesses who returned from captivity , '' said Denisova .
Read alsoConcentration camp with sadists at helm : Ex-political prisoner Aseiev speaks about Donetsk prisonThe Commissioner for Human Rights has clarified that another 258 persons are still considered missing .
`` We are not aware of whether they are alive or not .
We must keep searching , '' she said .
Denisova also said that representatives of the occupied areas of Donetsk region handed the Ukrainian side their list of 103 @ @ @ @ @ @

The list includes civilians, military, and volunteers.
Ukraine on December 29 has completed the list of 251 persons held in the occupied part of Donbas for the next prisoner swap effort with the Russian proxy forces.
That's according to Ukraine's Ombudsperson Liudmyla Denisova, who spoke on the air of Ukraine 24 TV channel.
The list includes civilians, military, and volunteers, the human rights envoy explained.
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"It's 251 people – confirmation has come through the SBU's center for prisoner release. Among them are 34 military, the rest are civilians and four volunteers. These numbers have been confirmed on our part, confirmed by the SBU through citizens' appeals, through witnesses who returned from captivity," said Denisova.
Read alsoConcentration camp with sadists at helm: Ex-political prisoner Aseiev speaks about Donetsk prisonThe Commissioner for Human Rights has clarified that another 258 persons are still considered missing. "We are not aware of whether they are alive or not. We must keep searching," she said.
Denisova also said that representatives of the occupied areas of Donetsk region handed the Ukrainian side their list of 103 persons for the upcoming exchange.


unian--2020-12-29--Nord Stream 2 pipelaying in German waters completed

The last remaining section to be laid is set to run through the Danish waters .
In Germany 's exclusive maritime economic zone , the section of Russia 's Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline has been completed .
That 's according to dpa agency 's report of December 28 .
The pipes were laid on a 2.6 km section at a 30-meter depth .
Russian pipelayer Fortuna was involved in relevant works .
Noteworthy , the construction of Russia 's gas pipeline in the German territory was frozen for a year over the package of sanctions imposed by the U.S. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump 's veto of crucial defense bill with Nord Stream 2 sanctions – mediaOn December 11 , 2020 , Russia resumed construction .
Now , another 147 km worth of the pipe is yet to be laid in Danish waters to complete the project .
The last remaining construction stage is expected to begin in mid-January 2021 .
The Nord Stream 2 project envisages the construction and operation of two gas pipeline branches with a total throughput capacity of 55 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year from the coast of Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It should connect Russia 's Ust-Lug and Germany 's Greifswald .
This new pipeline bypassing Ukraine is to be built next to the existing Nord Stream 1 pipe .
The construction of the pipeline was expected to be completed before the end of 2019 .
The pipeline is set to be 1,220 km long .
The project is being implemented by Russia 's Gazprom in alliance with European companies – ENGIE , OMV , Royal Dutch Shell , Uniper , and Wintershall .
Ukraine stands against the construction of Nord Stream 2 as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a gas transit country , while its potential revenue losses are estimated at US $ 3 billion annually .
The project is also highly criticized by the U.S. , Poland , and the Baltic States .
According to media reports , U.S. President-elect Joe Biden intends to do his utmost to prevent the completion of Nord Stream 2 project .
Read alsoNord Stream 2 `` dead '' – international energy expertOn November 4 , 2020 , the media reported that Congress wants to expand sanctions against Nord Stream 2 and TurkStream .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said he doubted that the U.S. position on Nord Stream 2 would change after Biden 's inauguration .
On December 6 , 2020 , United States Charge d'Affaires to Germany Robin Quinville called on the EU and Germany to declare a moratorium on the construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline .
On December 9 , 2020 , the U.S. House of Representatives approved the 2021 NDAA with expanded restrictions against the Russian Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline .

Nord Stream 2 pipelaying in German waters completed
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The last remaining section to be laid is set to run through the Danish waters.
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unian--2020-12-29--Russia uses hybrid influence in Africa to put pressure on France – media

Russia has gained access in the CAR to the exploitation of mineral resources , including diamonds .
Russia has been using its military presence in the Central African Republic to pressure France toward pursuing Russian interests in Europe , says Oleksandr Mishyn , co-founder of the Center for African Studies .
To this end , Russia has also supported this year 's military coup in Mali , Mishyn has told Guildhall .
`` The factor of the Russian threat in Africa was noted by U.S. and French leadership .
As you know , the CAR has long used to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but after the completion of Operation Sangaris [ French military intervention in the CAR ] in 2016 , a certain void appeared , which the Russians began to fill , '' the analyst said .
`` In today 's military-political situation in the CAR , Russia is one of the guarantors for incumbent President Faustin-Archange Touadera to retain post .
Russian mercenaries with the Wagner Group ensure the security of the president , while Russian instructors partake in training the armed forces now recovering from the civil conflict of 2013-2014 , '' the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a result , he adds , `` Russia supplied small arms and armored vehicles to the country , as well as gained access to the exploitation of mineral resources , including diamonds , uranium , gold , natural gas , columbite , cassiterite , ilmenite , and rutile . ''
Read alsoFour members of Russia 's PMC Wagner killed in helicopter crash in Libya – mediaIt should be noted that due to limited exploration works in the country , the exact volumes of mineral deposits are yet to be revealed .
`` Russia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as well as support for the military coup in Mali in 2020 , are instruments of pressure on Paris in order to secure concessions on issues that are of interest to Russians in Europe .
Russians feed anti-French sentiments and apply propaganda tools , '' Oleksandr Mishyn concluded .

Russia has gained access in the CAR to the exploitation of mineral resources, including diamonds.
Russia has been using its military presence in the Central African Republic to pressure France toward pursuing Russian interests in Europe, says Oleksandr Mishyn, co-founder of the Center for African Studies.
To this end, Russia has also supported this year's military coup in Mali, Mishyn has told Guildhall.
"The factor of the Russian threat in Africa was noted by U.S. and French leadership. As you know, the CAR has long used to be within France's zone of influence, but after the completion of Operation Sangaris [French military intervention in the CAR] in 2016, a certain void appeared, which the Russians began to fill," the analyst said.
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"In today's military-political situation in the CAR, Russia is one of the guarantors for incumbent President Faustin-Archange Touadera to retain post. Russian mercenaries with the Wagner Group ensure the security of the president, while Russian instructors partake in training the armed forces now recovering from the civil conflict of 2013-2014," the expert has told the outlet.
As a result, he adds, "Russia supplied small arms and armored vehicles to the country, as well as gained access to the exploitation of mineral resources, including diamonds, uranium, gold, natural gas, columbite, cassiterite, ilmenite, and rutile."
Read alsoFour members of Russia's PMC Wagner killed in helicopter crash in Libya – mediaIt should be noted that due to limited exploration works in the country, the exact volumes of mineral deposits are yet to be revealed.
"Russia's presence in the CAR since 2018, as well as support for the military coup in Mali in 2020, are instruments of pressure on Paris in order to secure concessions on issues that are of interest to Russians in Europe. Russians feed anti-French sentiments and apply propaganda tools," Oleksandr Mishyn concluded.


unian--2020-12-29--Zelensky suspends Constitutional Court chair for two months

Criminal charges have also been pressed against the chief judge , revealing conflict of interest .
President Volodymyr Zelensky has suspended Oleksandr Tupytsky , Head of the Constitutional Court of Ukraine , for a period of two months .
That 's according to the President 's Office .
It is noted that the decision was made after the experts with the President 's Office received and processed the motion filed by the Office of the Prosecutor General , signed by the acting prosecutor general , to suspend CCU Judge Oleksandr Tupytsky for a period of two months .
Deputy head @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has noted that the motion was aimed at the execution of Art .
154 of the Criminal Procedure Code , which provides that officials appointed by President shall be removed from office at a prosecutor 's request , and it 's the President who makes such decisions .
`` We have not found any reservations regarding the possibility of considering it and passing appropriate decisions , '' he said .
He also added that the CCU head had been charged with criminal offenses revealing conflict of interest .
The president 's move is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the judge 's powers , said Fedir Venislavsky , Zelensky 's envoy to the Constitutional Court .
Earlier today , Volodymyr Zelensky convened the National Security and Defense Council to address the constitutional crisis .
On October 27 , the Constitutional Court , on the motion of 47 MPs , adopted a decision repealing Article 366-1 of the Criminal Code , which had provided for liability for inaccurate declaration of assets by government officials .
The Constitutional Court also recognized unconstitutional the provisions of laws on the verification of e-declarations , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ verify such declarations and identify conflict of interest .
President Volodymyr Zelensky tabled bill No .
4288 in parliament to terminate the powers of all Constitutional Court judges .
The document states , in particular , that the decision of the Constitutional Court of October 27 is `` null and void '' ( such that it does not create legal consequences ) as such that was adopted by the Constitutional Court judges in conditions of a real conflict of interests . ''
Zelensky proposes the termination of the powers of Constitutional Court judges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new judges immediately begin the competitive selection .
Head of the Constitutional Court Oleksandr Tupytsky claimed the president 's proposals directly contradicted the Constitution .
The Venice Commission has acknowledged that the Constitutional Court 's decision of October 27 `` lacks clear reasoning , has no firm basis in international law , and was possibly tainted with a major procedural flaw – an unresolved question of a conflict of interest of some judges . ''

Criminal charges have also been pressed against the chief judge, revealing conflict of interest.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has suspended Oleksandr Tupytsky, Head of the Constitutional Court of Ukraine, for a period of two months.
That's according to the President's Office.
"I am signing this decree for the sake of restoring justice and resolving Constitutional crisis," Volodymyr Zelensky stressed.
It is noted that the decision was made after the experts with the President's Office received and processed the motion filed by the Office of the Prosecutor General, signed by the acting prosecutor general, to suspend CCU Judge Oleksandr Tupytsky for a period of two months.
Deputy head of the President's Office Andriy Smirnov has noted that the motion was aimed at the execution of Art. 154 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which provides that officials appointed by President shall be removed from office at a prosecutor's request, and it's the President who makes such decisions.
"We have not found any reservations regarding the possibility of considering it and passing appropriate decisions," he said.
He also added that the CCU head had been charged with criminal offenses revealing conflict of interest.
The president's move is a temporary measure, not entailing termination of the judge's powers, said Fedir Venislavsky, Zelensky's envoy to the Constitutional Court.
Earlier today, Volodymyr Zelensky convened the National Security and Defense Council to address the constitutional crisis.
Constitutional crisis in Ukraine: Background
On October 27, the Constitutional Court, on the motion of 47 MPs, adopted a decision repealing Article 366-1 of the Criminal Code, which had provided for liability for inaccurate declaration of assets by government officials.
The Constitutional Court also recognized unconstitutional the provisions of laws on the verification of e-declarations, and abolished the powers of the NACP to verify such declarations and identify conflict of interest.
President Volodymyr Zelensky tabled bill No. 4288 in parliament to terminate the powers of all Constitutional Court judges. The document states, in particular, that the decision of the Constitutional Court of October 27 is "null and void" (such that it does not create legal consequences) as such that was adopted by the Constitutional Court judges in conditions of a real conflict of interests." Zelensky proposes the termination of the powers of Constitutional Court judges, suggesting that actors authorized to appoint new judges immediately begin the competitive selection.
Head of the Constitutional Court Oleksandr Tupytsky claimed the president's proposals directly contradicted the Constitution.
The Venice Commission has acknowledged that the Constitutional Court's decision of October 27 "lacks clear reasoning, has no firm basis in international law, and was possibly tainted with a major procedural flaw – an unresolved question of a conflict of interest of some judges."


unian--2020-12-29--Zelensky roots for setting up airline with fleet of Antonov planes

The head of state has invited state customers to continue their work on sealing new contracts for An-178 production .
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged the government to work on establishing in 2021 a Ukrainian airline , which will use planes produced by the country 's aviation manufacturer Antonov .
The comment came as Zelensky spoke at a ceremony for signing a Memorandum between the Ministry of Defense and the Antonov State Enterprise on the manufacture of aircraft for the Armed Force 's needs , the President 's Office reports .
The head of state has invited state customers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year for the production of An-178s .
`` He also urged the government to work on the establishment of a Ukrainian airline in 2021 , which will use Antonov aircraft , '' the report reads .
`` The President commissioned to develop the state scientific and technical program on development of the aviation industry for 2021-2030 and to prepare the corresponding meeting of NSDC of Ukraine . ''
`` Let 's do everything possible for Ukraine 's aviation industry to overcome all turbulence zones and reach new highs , '' Volodymyr Zelensky summed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Prime Minister , Minister for Strategic Industries Oleh Urusky said the government would be creating a state-owned aerospace holding , which will include enterprises now managed by the State Space Agency , as well as aviation factories .
Read alsoDefense Ministry , Antovov to sign contract on three An-178 by year-endOn November 11 , the Cabinet approved the concept of the State Target Scientific and Technical Program for the Development of the Aviation Industry for 2021-2030 .
The estimated funding stands at UAH 40 billion , of which UAH 20 billion will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ program implementation will save nearly 50,000 jobs and create another 6,000 new ones .
Among the expected results is the development of new transport aircraft , helicopters , drones , as well as modernization of existing ones .
Also , this should help develop new aviation technology , material used in serial production , engines , and other aviation equipment , while the volume of products sold in the industry could amount to UAH 300-350 billion .
On December 15 , 2020 , the Verkhovna Rada adopted a bill on the State Budget @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the allocation of UAH 89 billion for the `` Big Construction '' Program , UAH 4.5 billion for the development of Ukrzaliznytsia railway operator , and UAH 2.4 billion for the development of Ukrainian airports .
Vladyslav Kryklii , Ukraine 's Infrastructure Minister , said the Budget 2021 ensures financing for the development of airports in Dnipro ( UAH 1.4 billion ) , Vinnitsa ( UAH 604 million ) , Kherson ( UAH 320 million ) , and Rivne ( UAH 75.7 million ) .
On December 17 , 2020 , Kryklii @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rebound 50 % to last year 's figures .

Zelensky roots for setting up airline with fleet of Antonov planes
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The head of state has invited state customers to continue their work on sealing new contracts for An-178 production.
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unian--2020-12-29--Concentration camp with sadists at helm: Ex-political prisoner Aseiev speaks about Donetsk prison

The notorious site is located at a long-abandoned factory that used to be an artist hub in pre-war times .
Former political prisoner and journalist Stanislav Aseiev , who had for over two years been held captive by Russian proxies at a Donetsk-based `` Izolyatsia '' prison , spoke up about the abduction and torture .
In an interview with Ukrayinska Pravda , Aseiev was abducted as he was heading home after making a report for the Ukrainian media about the so-called `` Republic Day '' .
As an armed patrol team were checking his backpack , one of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appeared within minutes to detain him .
As it turned out , Aseiev had been put on a wanted list 18 months ago after he was spotted taking pictures at an assassinated local warlord 's funeral .
`` They dragged me into the car , put a bag over my head , and took me to the so-called 'MGB ' headquarters on 26 , Shevchenka Street , which is actually in the center of Donetsk , '' Aseiev said .
Interrogators were beating Aseiev during the so-called `` interrogation , '' although they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ routine .
`` As soon as the camera was turned off , they brought in a 'tapik ' .
This is a device whose wires they connect to different parts of the body .
In my case , it was my thumbs – and that 's how torture started .
There was beating , psychological pressure , and threats - they sought to force me into confessing that I 'm not just a journalist , but also a spy , working for Ukraine 's Main Intelligence Directorate .
I signed everything after an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 'd sign anything , '' said Aseiev .
During the first three weeks of his confinement , Aseiev was held in the basement .
Still , the prison administration would force him to keep posting on social media to conceal the fact of his arrest .
Read also '' DPR '' secret prisons employ torture experts , not random people : ex-captivesAseiev has spent a total of 28 months in the notorious prison located at a long-abandoned factory that used to be an artist hub in pre-war times .
It was `` classic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exclaims .
`` Of course , I ca n't be aware of how things used to be back then , but there are no limits in Izoliatsia .
Because even in the Soviet Union of 1930s , if someone was sentenced in a 'political ' case , at least no one would mess with them afterwards .
In Izoliatsia though , you would endure daily , round-the-clock harassment .
I was transferred there two months after the so-called verdict was handed down , so I have my experience to tell from , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukrainians in Donbas dungeons among swapped , ex-prisoner claimsFrom a psychological point of view , even from the psychiatric perspective , classical psychopaths and sadists are at the helm there , which was impossible not to notice , '' the ex-political prisoner summed up .
A year ago , on December 29 , 2019 , Ukraine sealed a major exchange of held persons with the Russian proxy forces in Donbas .
Seventy-six Ukrainians returned from enemy captivity , including Stanislav Aseev , who had spent over two years in custody , as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In total , 81 people were released , including five who chose to stay in the occupied territory .
As part of the swap , Ukraine handed over 120 persons , while another 17 refused to be part of the exchange .
The Ukrainian authorities , in particular , handed over the former `` Berkut '' police task force servicemen accused of executions at Institutskaya Street in Kyiv during the Revolution of Dignity in 2014 , as well as a Brazilian militant Rafael Lusvarghi .

The notorious site is located at a long-abandoned factory that used to be an artist hub in pre-war times.
Former political prisoner and journalist Stanislav Aseiev, who had for over two years been held captive by Russian proxies at a Donetsk-based "Izoliatsia" prison, spoke up about the abduction and torture.
In an interview with Ukrayinska Pravda, Aseiev was abducted as he was heading home after making a report for the Ukrainian media about the so-called "Republic Day". As an armed patrol team were checking his backpack, one of the militants made a call and plain-cloth operatives appeared within minutes to detain him.
As it turned out, Aseiev had been put on a wanted list 18 months ago after he was spotted taking pictures at an assassinated local warlord's funeral.
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"They dragged me into the car, put a bag over my head, and took me to the so-called 'MGB' headquarters on 26, Shevchenka Street, which is actually in the center of Donetsk," Aseiev said.
Interrogators were beating Aseiev during the so-called "interrogation," although they had first tried to video-record the questioning routine.
"As soon as the camera was turned off, they brought in a 'tapik'. This is a device whose wires they connect to different parts of the body. In my case, it was my thumbs – and that's how torture started. There was beating, psychological pressure, and threats - they sought to force me into confessing that I'm not just a journalist, but also a spy, working for Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate. I signed everything after an hour of torture. I said I'd sign anything," said Aseiev.
During the first three weeks of his confinement, Aseiev was held in the basement. Still, the prison administration would force him to keep posting on social media to conceal the fact of his arrest.
Read also"DPR" secret prisons employ torture experts, not random people: ex-captivesAseiev has spent a total of 28 months in the notorious prison located at a long-abandoned factory that used to be an artist hub in pre-war times.
"The specific thing about Izoliatsia is that it's not a legit prison, it's a concentration camp. This is not some hook title for the media. This word most accurately conveys what's happening there," he explained.
It was "classic 1937" in the dungeons, Aseiev exclaims.
"Of course, I can't be aware of how things used to be back then, but there are no limits in Izoliatsia. Because even in the Soviet Union of 1930s, if someone was sentenced in a 'political' case, at least no one would mess with them afterwards. In Izoliatsia though, you would endure daily, round-the-clock harassment. I was transferred there two months after the so-called verdict was handed down, so I have my experience to tell from," Aseiev said.
Read alsoThose who tortured Ukrainians in Donbas dungeons among swapped, ex-prisoner claimsFrom a psychological point of view, even from the psychiatric perspective, classical psychopaths and sadists are at the helm there, which was impossible not to notice," the ex-political prisoner summed up.
Prisoner swap in 2019
A year ago, on December 29, 2019, Ukraine sealed a major exchange of held persons with the Russian proxy forces in Donbas. Seventy-six Ukrainians returned from enemy captivity, including Stanislav Aseiev, who had spent over two years in custody, as well as 12 military and 64 civilians.
In total, 81 people were released, including five who chose to stay in the occupied territory. As part of the swap, Ukraine handed over 120 persons, while another 17 refused to be part of the exchange. The Ukrainian authorities, in particular, handed over the former "Berkut" police task force servicemen accused of executions at Institutskaya Street in Kyiv during the Revolution of Dignity in 2014, as well as a Brazilian militant Rafael Lusvarghi.


unian--2020-12-29--Macroeconomic outlook for 2021: GDP growth at 4% with moderate inflation

Traditionally in late December , UNIAN polled the country 's leading economists seeking to hear their forecasts for the development of the Ukrainian economy in 2021 .
GDP , hryvnia rate , and inflation outlooks have all been covered in the survey .
The country 's leading economists , polled by UNIAN , believe Ukraine could count in 2021 on finally leaving behind the deep economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic .
The consensus forecast reveals expectations for a 4 % growth of the gross domestic product with moderate consumer inflation at 6.1 % and the national currency rate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ According to the State Statistics Service , in the third quarter , GDP dropped 3.5 % on year .
At the same time , compared to the previous disastrous quarter , real GDP increased by 8.5 % , taking into account the seasonal factor , which means Ukrainian economy has begun its path toward recovery .
The decline in industrial output in November slowed to 0.3 % on year , after falling 5 % in October .
The foreign trade balance for January-October 2020 was reduced to a deficit of $ 3.35 billion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deficit for the same period last year , according to the State Statistics Service , which is also due to a non-standard economic situation in the country and worldwide .
At the same time , quite pleasing is certain growth in household incomes .
In October , the average nominal wage increased by 13.5 % in annual terms .
In the capital city of Kyiv , the average wage stands at almost UAH 17,500 ( US $ 617 ) .
Growth in household incomes favorably affects retail trade , which has been hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , retail trade turnover in Ukraine increased by almost 8 % y-o-y .
Inflation in 2020 hit record lows of around 2 % at the height of the crisis due to a sharp decline in consumer demand and business activity due to quarantine bans .
At the same time , in November , inflation accelerated to 3.8 % in annual terms .
Apparently , it is set to keep on rising .
As for the expectations , forecasts voiced by Ukrainian authorities remain quite optimistic .
The Ministry for Development of Economy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2021 at 4.6 % and inflation at 7.3 % .
The National Bank expects economic growth in 2021 at 4 % .
According to the regulator 's outlook , under the influence of economic recovery and higher minimum wage , inflation will accelerate slightly , to 6.5 % .
Ukraine 's key creditor , the International Monetary Fund , has released a more restrained outlook with GDP growth of 3 % and consumer inflation at 6 % .
The majority of Ukrainian experts , interviewed by UNIAN , have also been rather @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , chief for economic programs at Ukrainian Institute for the Future '' Speaking of the outlook for the next year , it 's important to understand that there are many factors beyond Ukraine 's borders that affect our economy more than government decisions .
These are the moves by global players to overcome the consequences of the pandemic , these are possible protectionist measures applied in various countries .
Also , high geopolitical risks remain in place – this includes Russia , which , even if there 's no further military escalation , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ field in Ukraine , developing pro-Russian political forces .
Respectively , this will be a powerful cluster of destabilization .
There 's also turbulence in Europe , elections in the UK , Germany – Merkel 's replacement for another player could also change [ Germany 's ] policy towards Ukraine .
Besides , a new round of coronacrisis ca n't be ruled out , and neither can growing protectionism in developed economies , sliding prices on commodity markets , on which Ukraine depends : Annual exports from Ukraine are worth nearly $ 50 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raw material .
Accordingly , the Ukrainian economy depends more on the dynamics of commodity prices than on the decisions of , say , National Bank .
If we 're talking about internal challenges , the next year will be very unstable : the degree of decentralization will grow , as well as Kyiv 's influence on regions .
There are risks of snap parliamentary elections .
Even if they do n't have enough time to prepare for holding them next fall , the whole year will be marked by political and social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
No sane investor comes into jurisdictions with ongoing political and social turbulence .
We still have at our disposal quite expensive financial resources for the economy .
Due to higher inflation , the NBU may strengthen sterilization of money supply , which will increase the cost of resources for businesses .
That is , we will lose competition to global players .
We expect fairly high inflation , rising unemployment , and rising labor migration – these are negative factors that will affect the economy next year .
We are considering a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4 % , with nominal GDP in this case reaching $ 162 billion by the end of next year .
Inflation will be 9.5 % .
Investment will remain at a fairly low level .
Imports will grow by 21 % , exports – by 12 % , while average annual rate will stand at UAH 29/USD . ''
`` We expect the economy to grow 4.5 percent y-o-y in 2021 .
The main driver will remain consumer demand along with the increased investment activity amid a gradual vaccination campaign and weakening of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prices up .
Inflation will also be influenced by a 20 % increase in the minimum wage from January 2021 , a low comparison base for vegetable prices , and an increase in heating tariffs following months of skyrocketing gas prices .
As a result , consumer inflation will accelerate to 6.1 % in annual terms .
At the beginning of the year , foreign exchange earnings from exporters will increase as a result of a sharp rise in steel and grain prices in the last months of 2020 .
This , along @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government bonds , will help strengthen the hryvnia .
In the second half of the year though , the rate will return to UAH 28/USD due to larger import volumes . ''
`` In 2021 , the economy will recover from the losses suffered in 2020 .
We expect investment growth to recover after this year 's plunge .
The pace of household consumption rise will rise .
We forecast GDP growth at 3.9 % .
We expect that the trend of moderate devaluation of the national currency will prevail in 2021 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the expansion of the balance of payments trade deficit .
At the same time , we do n't rule out the scenario of a weak or moderate hryvnia recovery if in 2021 the demand for hryvnia government bonds increases on the part of non-resident investors .
Thus , a kind of a situation may arise that 's similar to the one that was observed in 2019 when there was a constant additional inflow of foreign currency to the interbank market , creating an excess supply of foreign currency on the interbank market .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the end of the year will stand at UAH 29.5/USD .
Rising inflation in 2021 will be mainly due to higher consumer demand as a result of higher household incomes , as well as the rise in prices for basic raw materials .
Inflation , our forecast says , will be at of 6.1 % . ''
`` In general , the Ukrainian economy is doing well through the global crisis thanks to its structural features , favorable trading conditions , and the restoration of macro-financial stability after the 2014-2015 crisis .
From @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expect a sharp recovery in the domestic economy thanks to the stimulation of external demand .
This will be facilitated by a better response to the pandemic thanks to vaccination , primarily in developed economies .
Monetary conditions will also remain stimulating .
Besides , we are building on an additional effect from agriculture against the background of a low base compared to 2020 , due to a poor harvest of grains , oilseeds , and sugar beets .
As a result , we retain our forecast of a rapid GDP recovery next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ growth contributes to an impressive recovery in consumer demand .
Consumer inflation has expectedly accelerated over the past two months – to 3.8 % in annual terms in November .
Inflation is likely to continue its rise in the coming months .
We expect it to hover around 6 % , which is the upper end of the target range , throughout the most part of 2021 .
The hryvnia is supported by strong external accounts .
High activity of exporters and an increase in foreign capital inflows will contribute to a moderate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ half of next year .
Further transition to a current account deficit will put pressure on the exchange rate in the second half of the year .
Hryvnia should complete 2021 in the range of UAH 27.5-28/USD . ''
`` Next year , the Ukrainian economy will gradually recover .
The economic sentiment of consumers and households will remain depressed until the end of next year .
This means that many companies will invest less and consumers will put off less important purchases on the back burner .
As a result , GDP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ revitalization of the economy sectors that have most suffered from the restrictions .
The potential for the recovery will run dry by mid-2021 .
The overall GDP growth by year-end will stand at 4 % .
Inflation will start rising at the expense of energy prices .
Due to the low comparison base , prices will definitely be higher next year .
Besides , the government is going to raise the minimum wage , which will boost inflation .
The baseline forecast is that inflation will rise to 5.5 % .
With a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inflation next year will reach 7 % .
Gas prices are also recovering , and in the first quarter of next year , households will be seeing higher bills , which will also accelerate inflation .
By the end of the second quarter , there are really high risks of the NBU raising its key rate to 7 % .
The hryvnia exchange rate will remain in the current range of UAH 27.00-28.50/USD .
At the moment , the Ministry of Finance is able to borrow money on the market to finance the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hryvnia , which drives the dollar down .
However , such borrowings have to be made at the cost of higher interest rates , which will increase the cost of debt servicing in the future . ''
According to the generalized estimates voiced by experts , next year the Ukrainian economy will see modest growth , which , however , is a positive thing compared to this dramatic year 's fall .
Further growth of inflation is also expected , which will stand at the upper limit of or slightly exceed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rate of the Ukrainian currency will be approximately at today 's level , that is , no serious fluctuations are expected .
Having survived the turbulent year 2020 , we can only hope that the next one wo n't be worse : the long-awaited mass vaccination will protect most people 's health , which , in turn , will ensure economic growth and better well-being , while the nightmares of a terrible pandemic will become a thing of the past .
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Traditionally in late December, UNIAN polled the country's leading economists seeking to hear their forecasts for the development of the Ukrainian economy in 2021. GDP, hryvnia rate, and inflation outlooks have all been covered in the survey.
The country's leading economists, polled by UNIAN, believe Ukraine could count in 2021 on finally leaving behind the deep economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
The consensus forecast reveals expectations for a 4% growth of the gross domestic product with moderate consumer inflation at 6.1% and the national currency rate of UAH 28 per U.S. dollar.
According to the State Statistics Service, in the third quarter, GDP dropped 3.5% on year. At the same time, compared to the previous disastrous quarter, real GDP increased by 8.5%, taking into account the seasonal factor, which means Ukrainian economy has begun its path toward recovery.
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The decline in industrial output in November slowed to 0.3% on year, after falling 5% in October.
The foreign trade balance for January-October 2020 was reduced to a deficit of $3.35 billion, which is 60% below the deficit for the same period last year, according to the State Statistics Service, which is also due to a non-standard economic situation in the country and worldwide.
At the same time, quite pleasing is certain growth in household incomes. In October, the average nominal wage increased by 13.5% in annual terms. In the capital city of Kyiv, the average wage stands at almost UAH 17,500 (US$617).
Growth in household incomes favorably affects retail trade, which has been hit hard by the coronacrisis: in January-November, retail trade turnover in Ukraine increased by almost 8% y-o-y.
Inflation in 2020 hit record lows of around 2% at the height of the crisis due to a sharp decline in consumer demand and business activity due to quarantine bans. At the same time, in November, inflation accelerated to 3.8% in annual terms. Apparently, it is set to keep on rising.
As for the expectations, forecasts voiced by Ukrainian authorities remain quite optimistic. The Ministry for Development of Economy, Trade, and Agriculture projects GDP growth in 2021 at 4.6% and inflation at 7.3%.
The National Bank expects economic growth in 2021 at 4%. According to the regulator's outlook, under the influence of economic recovery and higher minimum wage, inflation will accelerate slightly, to 6.5%.
Ukraine's key creditor, the International Monetary Fund, has released a more restrained outlook with GDP growth of 3% and consumer inflation at 6%.
The majority of Ukrainian experts, interviewed by UNIAN, have also been rather moderate in their projections.
Consensus forecast of Ukraine's economic indicators for 2021
Expert Projected GDP growth, % Inflation, % Hryvnia rate, UAH/USD NBU 4 6.5 - Economy Ministry 4.6 7.3 - IMF 3 6 - Anatliy Amelin, chief for economic programs at Ukrainian Institute for the Future 4 9.5 29 Olena Belan, chief economist at Dragon Capital 4.5 6.1 28 Yvhenia Akhtyrko, analyst with Concorde Capital 3.9 6.1 29.5 Serhiy Nikolaychuk, head of macroeconomic research department at ICU 5.6 6 28 Maksym Parkhomenko, analyst with Alpari 4 5.5 28 Consensus (median) 4 6.1 28
Anatoliy Amelin, chief for economic programs at Ukrainian Institute for the Future
"Speaking of the outlook for the next year, it's important to understand that there are many factors beyond Ukraine's borders that affect our economy more than government decisions. These are the moves by global players to overcome the consequences of the pandemic, these are possible protectionist measures applied in various countries.
Also, high geopolitical risks remain in place – this includes Russia, which, even if there's no further military escalation, invests money in shaping up the media field in Ukraine, developing pro-Russian political forces. Respectively, this will be a powerful cluster of destabilization. There's also turbulence in Europe, elections in the UK, Germany – Merkel's replacement for another player could also change [Germany's] policy towards Ukraine.
Besides, a new round of coronacrisis can't be ruled out, and neither can growing protectionism in developed economies, sliding prices on commodity markets, on which Ukraine depends: Annual exports from Ukraine are worth nearly $50 billion, 70-75% of which is raw material. Accordingly, the Ukrainian economy depends more on the dynamics of commodity prices than on the decisions of, say, National Bank.
If we're talking about internal challenges, the next year will be very unstable: the degree of decentralization will grow, as well as Kyiv's influence on regions. There are risks of snap parliamentary elections. Even if they don't have enough time to prepare for holding them next fall, the whole year will be marked by political and social turbulence, which will affect the economy. No sane investor comes into jurisdictions with ongoing political and social turbulence.
We still have at our disposal quite expensive financial resources for the economy. Due to higher inflation, the NBU may strengthen sterilization of money supply, which will increase the cost of resources for businesses. That is, we will lose competition to global players. We expect fairly high inflation, rising unemployment, and rising labor migration – these are negative factors that will affect the economy next year.
We are considering a baseline scenario where the economy grows by 4%, with nominal GDP in this case reaching $162 billion by the end of next year. Inflation will be 9.5%. Investment will remain at a fairly low level. Imports will grow by 21%, exports – by 12%, while average annual rate will stand at UAH 29/USD."
Olena Belan, Chief Economist at Dragon Capital:
"We expect the economy to grow 4.5 percent y-o-y in 2021. The main driver will remain consumer demand along with the increased investment activity amid a gradual vaccination campaign and weakening of quarantine restrictions.
Domestic demand will push prices up. Inflation will also be influenced by a 20% increase in the minimum wage from January 2021, a low comparison base for vegetable prices, and an increase in heating tariffs following months of skyrocketing gas prices. As a result, consumer inflation will accelerate to 6.1% in annual terms.
At the beginning of the year, foreign exchange earnings from exporters will increase as a result of a sharp rise in steel and grain prices in the last months of 2020. This, along with the inflow of foreign capital into government bonds, will help strengthen the hryvnia. In the second half of the year though, the rate will return to UAH 28/USD due to larger import volumes."
Yevhenia Akhtyrko, an analyst with Concorde Capital:
"In 2021, the economy will recover from the losses suffered in 2020. We expect investment growth to recover after this year's plunge. The pace of household consumption rise will rise. We forecast GDP growth at 3.9%.
We expect that the trend of moderate devaluation of the national currency will prevail in 2021. Devaluation pressure will primarily be driven by the expansion of the balance of payments trade deficit. At the same time, we don't rule out the scenario of a weak or moderate hryvnia recovery if in 2021 the demand for hryvnia government bonds increases on the part of non-resident investors. Thus, a kind of a situation may arise that's similar to the one that was observed in 2019 when there was a constant additional inflow of foreign currency to the interbank market, creating an excess supply of foreign currency on the interbank market. The exchange rate to the dollar at the end of the year will stand at UAH 29.5/USD.
Rising inflation in 2021 will be mainly due to higher consumer demand as a result of higher household incomes, as well as the rise in prices for basic raw materials. Inflation, our forecast says, will be at of 6.1%."
Head of Macroeconomic Research Department at ICU Group, Serhiy Nikolaychuk:
"In general, the Ukrainian economy is doing well through the global crisis thanks to its structural features, favorable trading conditions, and the restoration of macro-financial stability after the 2014-2015 crisis.
From the second quarter of 2021, we expect a sharp recovery in the domestic economy thanks to the stimulation of external demand. This will be facilitated by a better response to the pandemic thanks to vaccination, primarily in developed economies. Monetary conditions will also remain stimulating. Besides, we are building on an additional effect from agriculture against the background of a low base compared to 2020, due to a poor harvest of grains, oilseeds, and sugar beets.
As a result, we retain our forecast of a rapid GDP recovery next year at 5.6%. Strong income growth contributes to an impressive recovery in consumer demand.
Consumer inflation has expectedly accelerated over the past two months – to 3.8% in annual terms in November. Inflation is likely to continue its rise in the coming months. We expect it to hover around 6%, which is the upper end of the target range, throughout the most part of 2021.
The hryvnia is supported by strong external accounts. High activity of exporters and an increase in foreign capital inflows will contribute to a moderate strengthening of the hryvnia in the first half of next year. Further transition to a current account deficit will put pressure on the exchange rate in the second half of the year. Hryvnia should complete 2021 in the range of UAH 27.5-28/USD."
Alpari analyst Maksym Parkhomenko:
"Next year, the Ukrainian economy will gradually recover. The economic sentiment of consumers and households will remain depressed until the end of next year. This means that many companies will invest less and consumers will put off less important purchases on the back burner.
As a result, GDP recovery will be taking place due to revitalization of the economy sectors that have most suffered from the restrictions. The potential for the recovery will run dry by mid-2021. The overall GDP growth by year-end will stand at 4%.
Inflation will start rising at the expense of energy prices. Due to the low comparison base, prices will definitely be higher next year. Besides, the government is going to raise the minimum wage, which will boost inflation. The baseline forecast is that inflation will rise to 5.5%. With a more significant increase in fuel prices, inflation next year will reach 7%. Gas prices are also recovering, and in the first quarter of next year, households will be seeing higher bills, which will also accelerate inflation.
By the end of the second quarter, there are really high risks of the NBU raising its key rate to 7%. The hryvnia exchange rate will remain in the current range of UAH 27.00-28.50/USD. At the moment, the Ministry of Finance is able to borrow money on the market to finance the budget. Such transactions spark demand for the hryvnia, which drives the dollar down. However, such borrowings have to be made at the cost of higher interest rates, which will increase the cost of debt servicing in the future."
According to the generalized estimates voiced by experts, next year the Ukrainian economy will see modest growth, which, however, is a positive thing compared to this dramatic year's fall. Further growth of inflation is also expected, which will stand at the upper limit of or slightly exceed the National Bank's target range. The rate of the Ukrainian currency will be approximately at today's level, that is, no serious fluctuations are expected.
Having survived the turbulent year 2020, we can only hope that the next one won't be worse: the long-awaited mass vaccination will protect most people's health, which, in turn, will ensure economic growth and better well-being, while the nightmares of a terrible pandemic will become a thing of the past.
Kateryna Zhyriy


unian--2020-12-30--Iran allocates US$150,000 each for victims of Ukraine plane crash incident – media

The Iranian government will pay the money in compliance with international norms .
Iranian cabinet members agreed at a session on Wednesday to allocate US $ 150,000 or its equivalent in euros to each family of the victims of the Ukrainian plane crash in January 2020 .
The Iranian government will pay the money to the families of the plane crash victims without considering their race and nationalities in compliance with international norms , as reported by the Islamic Republic News Agency ( IRNA ) .
Read alsoPS752 downing : Ukraine takes tough stance in talks with Iran – FM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 8 , Vice-President for Legal Affairs Laya Joneidi suggested the government should pay the allocated money before the start of its first anniversary .
Although money can not relieve pain from the incident , it is somehow a commitment to respect people 's rights , she added .
• On January 8 , 2020 , Kyiv-bound Boeing 737 passenger jet flight PS752 , operated by Ukraine International Airlines , crashed in Iran shortly after takeoff from Tehran Airport .
• All 176 people on board , including 11 Ukrainian nationals – nine crew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Among victims are also citizens of Iran , Canada , Sweden , Afghanistan , Germany , and the UK .
• Iranian President Hassan Rouhani admitted that the Ukrainian liner had been shot down as a result of an unintentional `` human error , '' and promised to bring those responsible to justice .
• On June 9 , media reports said Iran had accused six persons in the PS752 downing case .
• On July 20 , the flight recorders were delivered to Paris and decrypted on July 21 .
• On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data from the black boxes had confirmed external interference with the aircraft 's operation .
• On October 23 , Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Yevhen Yenin said Iran would pay compensation to the relatives of victims of the UIA flight PS752 crash , but the process might last up to two years .
• On December 9 , however , Yenin said that Iran had withdrawn the offer to handle the payments to the families of those killed in the UIA plane crash .
• In the middle of December , Canada expressed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the downing of the Ukrainian plane , saying it is not credible .
• On December 22 , the Iranian news agency Tasnim reported that Iranian investigators , during a video conference , had provided representatives of other countries whose citizens were victims of the crash with a technical report on the UIA downing .
• On December 23 , Yenin said that Ukraine had not received the report .
• On December 24 , Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba expressed concern that Iran was delaying the negotiation process on the case of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ noted that Ukraine had not received a technical report from Iran on the plane downed almost a year ago .
• At the same time , Iran insists it has handed the report over to Ukraine .

The Iranian government will pay the money in compliance with international norms.
Iranian cabinet members agreed at a session on Wednesday to allocate US$150,000 or its equivalent in euros to each family of the victims of the Ukrainian plane crash in January 2020.
The Iranian government will pay the money to the families of the plane crash victims without considering their race and nationalities in compliance with international norms, as reported by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA).
Read alsoPS752 downing: Ukraine takes tough stance in talks with Iran – FM KulebaAs the tragic incident occurred on January 8, Vice-President for Legal Affairs Laya Joneidi suggested the government should pay the allocated money before the start of its first anniversary.
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Although money cannot relieve pain from the incident, it is somehow a commitment to respect people's rights, she added.
PS752 downing in Iran: Background


unian--2020-12-30--Russian imports banned by Ukraine estimated at almost US$637 mln per year – minister

Today , 29 different protective measures are applied with regard to imported products worth about US $ 414 million .
@ @ @ @ @ Economy , Trade and Agriculture Ihor Petrashko says Ukraine in 2020 banned imports of Russian @ @ @ @ @ at UAH 18 billion ( US $ 636.94 million ) per year .
Read alsoUkraine @ @ @ @ @ Russian goods until 2021 '' As for the Russian Federation , measures have been introduced @ @ @ @ @ UAH 18 billion in the equivalent per year , '' he said at a press @ @ @ @ @ Today , 29 different protective measures are applied with regard to imported products worth about @ @ @ @ @ US $ 414 million .
In addition , nine probes into imports with signs of @ @ @ @ @ 4.9 billion , or US $ 173 million , are underway .
In November 2020 @ @ @ @ @ Ministers extended until the end of 2021 , its decree dated December 30 , 2015 @ @ @ @ @ duties on goods from Russia .

Russian imports banned by Ukraine estimated at almost US$637 mln per year – minister
16:05, 30.12.20 847
Today, 29 different protective measures are applied with regard to imported products worth about US$414 million.
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