Bloc of Yulia Tymoshenko

Yulia Tymoshenko – leader of a united democratic opposition

iBYuT.com — 2010-03-09T12:22:00-05:00

Our leader is Yulia Tymoshenko," Rukh leader Borys Tarasyuk said today during the viche of Ukrainian patriotic forces that took place today by the monument to Taras Shevchenko in Kyiv. ..."There is a simple answer for those who want to defeat the latest anti-Ukrainian ‘Yanu-Kuchma’ – unite into a fist and be strong. ... This is when the true fighters will remain by you, when conviction is not measured in monetary terms," Yuriy Lutsenko said. The deputy head of the Ukrainian Social Democratic Party Olena Shustik believes that an opposition union of all democratic forces must stand up to the threat of loss of Ukraine’s main achievements. ...Yanukovych came to power not only through total falsification and intimidation of the population, but due to a lack of unity along the democratic ranks. ... I hope this return by Yanukovych finally awakens all the healthy democratic forces of our country and we create the strongest opposition," Olena Shustik said.

United democratic opposition created in Ukraine

iBYuT.com — 2010-03-09T12:21:47-05:00

The viche of national-patriotic forces of Ukraine has adopted a resolution on creating a united democratic coalition. Batkivshchyna, People’s Movement of Ukraine (Rukh), Motherland Defenders Party, People’s Self-Defense, Christian Democratic Union, Reforms and Order Party, Ukrainian Social Democratic Party, and other political and public organizations have joined the opposition. "We’re calling on all political and public forces to join the opposition battle for Ukraine, its independence and European course. We’re appealing to the Ukrainian people to stand up to all possible action that will infringe on Ukraine’s statehood, constitutional order, democracy and values," says the resolution. The united democratic coalition sets such goals as defending Ukraine’s European course of development, defending democracy, fighting for the creation of a socially-oriented economy, countering the domination of the oligarchs in the economy, strengthening Ukraine’s independence and protecting its territorial integrity, preventing Ukraine’s entry into any international organizations that conflict with Ukraine’s European aspirations, strengthening energy security and maintaining state ownership of the gas transport system, as well as protecting the status of Ukrainian as the only state language. During today’s viche, Yulia Tymoshenko was chosen as the leader of the united democratic opposition.

BYuT: Changes to parliamentary regulations are unconstitutional

iBYuT.com — 2010-03-09T12:20:32-05:00

Changes to the law on parliamentary regulations adopted by the Verkhovna Rada are unconstitutional, BYuT deputy Volodymyr Filenko has said. "The version they came up with is illegal and unconstitutional," Volodymyr Filenko said during a briefing. He believes that if President Viktor Yanukovych signs this law, he will be violating the Constitution. "They’ve set him up, because President Yanukovych faces a difficult choice – sign or not sign this law, violate the Constitution as its guarantor, like the majority in the Verkhovna Rada did, or uphold it," Volodymyr Filenko explained. ..."I can predict with great probability that these are both hands of one political team and that the president will not veto this law." Today, March 9, with 235 votes, the Verkhovna Rada adopted the law changing parliamentary regulations and allowing a coalition to be formed by deputies and not just factions.

Tymoshenko Goes into Opposition as Party of Regions Plots Constitutional Coup D’état

iBYuT.com — 2010-03-09T12:16:26-05:00

The collapse of Ms Tymoshenko’s coalition gave Mr Yanukovych 30 days in which to form a new coalition. This would have been a difficult task as a majority of lawmakers in OU-PSD support BYuT in opposing a coalition with the Party of Regions and Communists. ... At today’s parliamentary session, 235 lawmakers passed a bill that allows individual lawmakers to decide whether to join a coalition. By changing the rules, Mr Yanukovych expects to lure over 12 OU-PSD lawmakers, which, together with support from the Communist Party and Lytvyn bloc, would be enough to form a coalition. Once the president has signed the bill into law, a coalition will be formed and once ratified a new government will be formed. ...“It will distort the results of the parliamentary elections, negate the system of proportional representation of political parties in the parliament and foster political corruption.

BYuT will form an effective opposition government

iBYuT.com — 2010-03-04T10:24:42-05:00

Once in opposition, BYuT plans to create a so-called "shadow" government. ...According to norms in the parliamentary rules, we will form a shadow Cabinet of Ministers that will be headed by Yulia Tymoshenko," People’s Deputy Serhiy Podhorny (BYuT) said today. According to the parliamentarian, the opposition government will include professionals who will monitor the work of the ruling government in their field. ... It won’t be the case as with the previous cabinet, where the ministers weren’t selected by the prime minister. This wasn’t so much her team, because people were there based on the quote principle, people from former President Yushchenko, who didn’t always support her positions," explained Serhiy Podhorny. "And as Yulia Tymoshenko said, we won’t allow President Yanukovych to play golf and tennis," he noted.

BYuT will oppose a parliamentary coup

iBYuT.com — 2010-03-04T10:21:44-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua People’s Deputy Roman Zabzaliuk (BYuT) has said that BYuT will not join a coalition with the Party of Reginos and will form an opposition government. "We will work out constructive ways to oppose the anti-constitutional takeover that is being staged in the Verkhovna Rada. We will form an opposition government and will rally the democratic forces around us," he said.

Oleksandr Turchynov will be the acting prime minister

iBYuT.com — 2010-03-04T10:21:44-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua First Vice Prime Minister Oleksandr Turchynov will serve as acting Prime Minister of Ukraine until a new government is formed. This follows article 115 of the Constitution, by which "The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine that has divested itself of its powers before the newly elected Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine or whose resignation has been accepted by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine shall continue to exercise its powers until the newly formed Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine starts its work." As reported, on March 3, the Verkhovna Rada passed a no-confidence vote in Yulia Tymoshenko’s government.

BYuT: we must unite in the struggle for a new Ukraine

iBYuT.com — 2010-03-04T10:21:43-05:00

The BYuT faction in the Lviv oblast council has issued a statement appealing to the people of Lviv and all pro-Ukrainian democratic forces to unite around Yulia Tymoshenko and BYuT in the struggle for a new Ukraine. BYuT issued this statement following the collapse of the democratic coalition and the Verkhovna Rada’s decision to dismiss Yulia Tymoshenko’s government. "This marks the end of the era of democracy, rule of law, parliamentarism and open political competition in Ukraine…. Intimidation, bribery, blackmail and brute force – this is an incomplete list of what may soon become the reality of Ukrainian politics," says the statement. The democratic forces must unite in order to defend national values, as embodied by Yulia Tymoshenko, BYuT believes. "In these difficult political times, Yulia Tymoshenko is the sole leader of the democratic forces and spokesperson for Ukraine’s national interests.

Yulia Tymoshenko: after government’s dismissal, all responsibility will fall on Yanukovych

iBYuT.com — 2010-03-02T12:10:13-05:00

Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko will leave her office in the government building immediately after the Verkhovna Rada passes a no-confidence vote in the ruling Cabinet of Ministers. "Of course if they vote to dismiss the government, immediately all responsibility will fall on Yanukovych. He should take responsibility for the government and continue to lead the country," said Yulia Tymoshenko. She believes that under the current circumstances, parliament must consider the no-confidence resolution and the vote will become the moment of truth for the country. ... And we need to see what majority was really formed in the Verkhovna Rada," Yulia Tymoshenko added. The Verkhovna Rada is scheduled to vote tomorrow, March 3, on a no-confidence motion against the ruling government.

Yulia Tymoshenko: national-patriotic forces must unite to protect the state

iBYuT.com — 2010-03-02T11:58:39-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko is urging the national-patriotic forces to unite to protect Ukraine. "We need to rally together those political forces, politicians, people’s deputies, segment of society that understands the danger of the period that’s beginning in Ukraine," Yulia Tymoshenko emphasized during a briefing today. She noted that only national values can unite, not posts and money, as is happening today. "I believe that rallying around our country’s key values – defending our independence, strengthening our European course, fighting the corruption that hasn’t yet made it to their offices but is already taking possession of our state – will help to consolidate our independence under these circumstances." "I think we will still see a lot of falsehood (in Yanukovych’s policy), but in all of this falsehood I want something to remain real - the unity of the democratic team, and my leadership in this democratic team will remain real," Yulia Tymoshenko added.

Yulia Tymoshenko: the democratic coalition was illegally destroyed today

iBYuT.com — 2010-03-02T11:58:39-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua Verkhovna Rada Speaker Volodymyr Lytvyn’s announcement of the termination of the democratic coalition was illegal, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko has said. "The democratic coalition was illegally destroyed today in the Verkhovna Rada," she said during a briefing. She blamed the Lytvyn Bloc and Our Ukraine – People’s Self-Defense for the announcement of the break-up of the coalition. "I think it’s truly an historic responsibility. Later it will be clearly understood that Ukraine has lost, what Ukraine can’t defend itself from, and what challenges today can’t be stopped, because the last bastion of protection of everything Ukrainian has been destroyed," Yulia Tymoshenko added.

Yanukovych Asserts Non-Aligned Foreign Policy

iBYuT.com — 2010-03-02T11:58:38-05:00

This shift in foreign policy effectively closes the door on the prospect of a NATO Membership Action Plan and places EU integration as a fuzzy distant objective. ...Regarding domestic policy, the new president said that he intends to build a stable parliamentary majority and tackle the economic issues facing the country. ...It stated that it “regrets the adoption by the Verkhovna Rada of the highly controversial amendments to the presidential electoral law proposed by the Party of Regions just a few days before the second round; therefore encourages the Ukrainian authorities to review and complete the country's electoral legislation.” ...The next move by Mr Yanukovych will be for him to try to oust Ms Tymoshenko and her government. ...Ms Tymoshenko has stated that she will not form a coalition with Mr Yanukovych under any circumstances, and is prepared to go into opposition (see next article). Serhiy Sobolev, a deputy leader of BYuT, said that should Ms Tymoshenko go into opposition, BYuT will focus on European integration and maintaining a close watch on energy security.

Ukraine will pay for Russian gas on time and in full

iBYuT.com — 2010-03-01T10:24:13-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua The government has provided for the timely fulfillment of Naftohaz’s financial obligations to Russia's Gazprom for natural gas supplies. "We, as always, will pay on time and in full," Minister of Fuel and Energy Yuriy Prodan said today in the Cabinet of Ministers. According to the 19 January 2009 contract, Naftohaz is required to pay Gazprom no later than the 7th of the following month. After the first nonpayment, the contract is to switch to advance payments. Ukraine has maintained its reputation as a reliable partner and has continued to pay Gazprom on time.

Yulia Tymoshenko's government is fulfilling its direct obligations

iBYuT.com — 2010-03-01T10:24:13-05:00

According to Serhiy Sobolev, the future situation depends on 37 deputies from the Our Ukraine – People’s Self-Defense faction, because it’s impossible to create a coalition in parliament without this faction. "At present there are 20 deputies who are willing to cooperate with Viktor Yanukovych and the Party of Regions. They have already set conditions under which they can coexist. They have said that they have two candidates for the prime minister’s post – Yatseniuk and Yushchenko. This is the power by which Martynenko, as the head of the faction, is holding talks with us and the Party of Regions," he said.

Yulia Tymoshenko: democratic coalition is legitimate

iBYuT.com — 2010-03-01T10:24:13-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua The democratic coalition in parliament is legitimate and there is no need to legally confirm its existence, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko has said. She recalled that the reason for the dissolution of the existing coalition can be that one faction leaves the coalition. "I’m convinced that other than a faction leaving the democratic coalition, there is no other way to destroy the coalition. If a political faction leaves the democratic coalition it will mean that essentially the coalition has been dissolved," Yulia Tymoshenko noted. "The political force that I represent will remain in the democratic coalition, and nobody – no official – can dissolve the democratic coalition on his own, based on the newly-adopted rules," she added.

Yulia Tymoshenko: Ukraine is on a European course

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-25T16:30:54-05:00

Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko held a meeting today with Catherine Ashton, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, during which they discussed cooperation between Ukraine and the EU. ..."I know that a dialogue is underway on creating a free trade zone and association agreement, but for us it’s important to discuss how to deepen our cooperation," she said. ..."It was very important for me to have this opportunity to meet with you and begin our first dialogue on how the European Union can help Ukraine," she noted. Yulia Tymoshenko congratulated Catherine Ashton on her new post as High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. "I wish you great success, because there is much work to be done in the European Union and the entire European region," the head of the Ukrainian government said. Catherine Ashton was appointed High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on 19 November 2009.

Yulia Tymoshenko: European Parliament gave Kyiv a positive signal

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-25T16:30:53-05:00

Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko considers today’s resolution by the European Parliament on Ukraine a signal of support for the country’s European aspirations. "This is a long-awaited signal that Kyiv can apply to join the European Union. This is an extremely important signal for all citizens of Ukraine," Yulia Tymoshenko said today during a meeting with European Parliament President Jerzy Buzek. ...Jerzy Buzek noted that today’s visit by representatives of European institutions and organizations to Ukraine is a sign of intentions to cooperate more closely and constructively. As reported, today, February 25, the European Parliament voted to give Ukraine the right to apply for EU membership. "[Ukraine] may apply for membership of the EU like any European state that adheres to the principles of liberty, democracy, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law," reads the European Parliament's resolution.

Yulia Tymoshenko working on strategy for future

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-25T16:30:53-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua Prime Minister and leader of BYuT Yulia Tymoshenko met with deputies that represent her faction in parliament. During the meeting their decided at the beginning of next week to review their election campaign and develop a strategy for the future of the Yulia Tymoshenko team. "Next week BYuT, as one of the biggest political forces, will sum up the results of the election campaign and develop a strategy and tactic for our future work in parliament and the country," reported the head of the BYuT faction in parliament Ivan Kyrylenko. He believes the existing democratic coalition will be preserved. In not, he emphasized that BYuT will get ready for serious work as the opposition.

BYuT demands extraordinary session of parliament

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-22T13:48:05-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua The Yulia Tymoshenko Bloc is calling for an extraordinary session of the Verkhovna Rada to be held on Wednesday, February 24. "The Party of Regions has submitted to the Verkhovna Rada a draft resolution to dismiss the Cabinet of Ministers. The greatest danger today is uncertainty of power. Therefore, BYuT’s faction in parliament is insisting on immediate consideration of this issue and has submitted 150 signatures for this to be done no later than Wednesday," Oleksandr Turchynov has said in a statement. "Those who vote for this should understand the consequences," he added.

Statement by Yulia Tymoshenko’s campaign chief Oleksandr Turchynov

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-22T13:48:05-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua The Party of Regions has submitted to the Verkhovna Rada a draft resolution to dismiss the Cabinet of Ministers. The greatest danger today is uncertainty of power. Therefore, BYuT’s faction in parliament is insisting on immediate consideration of this issue and has submitted 150 signatures for this to be done no later than Wednesday. Those who vote for this resolution should understand the consequences.

Tymoshenko Withdraws Legal Challenge

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-22T13:22:14-05:00

The second round of Ukraine’s presidential election was held on 7 February and was a run-off between Ms Tymoshenko and Mr Yanukovych, the twice-convicted leader of the Party of Regions. ..."In about six months Tymoshenko’s fight for justice will bring her political dividends,” said Viktor Nebozhenko, the head of the Ukrainian Barometer polling agency. ...The New York Times summed up the dilemma: “European election monitors praised the election, saying that it was fair and represented an important step forward for Ukraine’s democracy. ...From the outset, Ms Tymoshenko has maintained that she would abide by the law and ruled out bringing protesters onto the streets. ... • An artificial increase in the turnout in the Eastern regions of Ukraine, facilitated by Party of Regions teams transporting voters between various precincts. ... • A suspiciously high number of voters who voted from home (more than one million), many of whom did not have proper permission to do so.

Yulia Tymoshenko: HACU should thoroughly examine the circumstances of the case

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-19T16:21:29-05:00

Yulia Tymoshenko does not intend to delay the review of her election appeal, she has said. "Our team does not intend to drag out something that will delay a decision," Yulia Tymoshenko said today in court. "For us it’s important that the circumstances be examined thoroughly," she added. Today the Higher Administrative Court of Ukraine began its review of Yulia Tymoshenko’s complaint against the Central Election Commission. The case is being heard by a panel of 50 judges. ... Five judges are absent for legitimate reasons.

Yulia Tymoshenko: only a fair trial can determine a president’s legitimacy

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-19T16:19:09-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua An objective judicial review of her election appeal is necessary to ensure the legitimacy of power in Ukraine, Yulia Tymoshenko believes. "I’m convinced that an honest examination of all the information in our lawsuit is necessary not just for me as a presidential candidate – this is just a small component of all the social processes in the country. I’m convinced that who needs this most is the presidential candidate who thinks he’s already become president," Yulia Tymoshenko said during today’s hearing in her election appeal. She believes that the true legitimacy of the newly-elected presidential can only be established once the elections are ruled as fair.

Hearings begin in Yulia Tymoshenko’s election appeal

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-19T16:18:58-05:00

The Higher Administrative Court of Ukraine has begun its review of Yulia Tymoshenko’s complaint against the Central Election Commission. The case will be heard by a panel of 50 judges. The presiding judge will be Oleksandr Nechytailo. Five judges are absent for legitimate reasons. On February 16, Yulia Tymoshenko submitted her election appeal to the higher Administrative Court. The following day, the court suspended the CEC decision establishing the results of the election.

Yulia Tymoshenko: I came to defend Ukraine, not the election (video)

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-19T16:16:56-05:00

Yulia Tymoshenko stressed that she always believed in justice, honestly and the rule of law. "Today I will fight for Ukraine, proving my position in a legal way. I believe that the rule of law, the right to justice in such an important historical moment for a country is democracy and the supremacy of the rule of law," she emphasized. Today, February 19, at 11am, the Higher Administrative Court of Ukraine began its review of Yulia Tymoshenko’s complaint against the Central Election Commission. ...The case will be heard by a full panel of judges of the Higher Administrative Court, except those judges absent for legitimate reasons. ...

Oleksandr Turchynov: decision by HACU is lawful

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-17T18:12:23-05:00

The head of Yulia Tymoshenko’s central campaign headquarters, Oleksandr Turchynov, believes the decision by the High Administrative Court suspending the Central Election Commission’s protocol on the official results of the presidential election is lawful. "There are honest and decent judges, who, despite the pressure and siege they have been under for the past several weeks, issue legal decisions based on procedural norms," Oleksandr Turchynov said today. "I want to believe and hope that this process, which has likely gained that attention of everyone in our country, will take place within the confines of the Constitution," noted Yulia Tymoshenko’s campaign manager. He added that the petition for an open review of Yulia Tymoshenko’s complaint will be submitted during the court’s first meeting on the case. As reported, today the High Administrative Court of Ukraine suspended the Central Election Commission’s decision establishing the results of the presidential election and recognizing Viktor Yanukovych as President of Ukraine until the administrative case is considered. In doing so, HACU partially satisfied Yulia Tymoshenko’s petition to the court.

HACU opens proceedings in Yulia Tymoshenko’s case

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-17T18:11:42-05:00

The High Administrative Court of Ukraine has opened proceedings and is considering Yulia Tymoshenko’s case against the Central Election Commission. According to the court order from February 17, 2010, the appeal was submitted within the statutory period and meets the requirements of article 106 of the Ukrainian Code of Administrative Court Procedure. The court also established that there are no grounds to return the claim or refuse to open proceedings into the administrative case. The order also states that the case will be considered by the full panel of judges of the High Administrative Court, except those judges absent for legitimate reasons. The defendant (Central Election Commission) before the court hearing may submit written objections to the claim and any evidence that it has. The Central Election Commission and all persons involved in the case will be provided with a copy of the complaint and supporting documents.

Yulia Tymoshenko demanding that CEC protocol on election results be cancelled

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-16T15:38:10-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua In her appeal to the High Administrative Court of Ukraine, Yulia Tymoshenko is demanding that the court cancel the Central Election Commission’s protocol on the official results of the presidential elections. Yulia Tymoshenko announced that the lawsuit is laid out in 9 volumes that provide the court with video and photo evidence of fraud committed during the second round of the presidential elections. According to her, the plaintiff also proposes introducing as a witness an international observer who was registered from the OSCE.

Yulia Tymoshenko arrives at HAC to file appeal

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-16T15:38:03-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua Yulia Tymoshenko has arrived at the High Administrative Court of Ukraine to personally file her appeal against the results of the presidential election. She was accompanied by the head of the Batkivshchyna Party’s legal department, People’s Deputy Andriy Portnov (BYuT), Meanwhile, other deputies from BYuT carried two boxes of documents into the High Administrative Court. "These are documents and materials for the appeal," said People’s Deputy Andriy Shkil (BYuT).

European Party of Ukraine welcomes Yulia Tymoshenko’s decision to remain Prime Minister

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-16T15:34:45-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua The head of the European Party of Ukraine Mykola Katerynchuk believes that preserving the current coalition and Yulia Tymoshenko staying on as Prime Minister is the only way to prevent the centralization of power in the hand of the Party of Regions. "The coalition remains. The Prime Minister remains in her post, and I think that his format is the only one possible under these conditions for the Party of Regions to not monopolize all of government power," Mykola Katerynchuk said today during a briefing. He also added that the "European Party of Ukraine welcomes Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko’s position not to step down."

Yulia Tymoshenko calling for democratic coalition to be preserved

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-16T15:33:55-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko is urging the Our Ukraine – People’s Self-Defense faction to preserve the format of the democratic coalition in parliament. "I urged everyone to create and renew a single democratic team in parliament, then we will be able to jointly control all areas of activities," Yulia Tymoshenko said today in parliament after a meeting with deputies from OU-PSD. According to her, this issue was discussed during her meeting with the faction. "I talked to OU-PSD about uniting the democratic forces in light of the major challenges facing Ukraine," she said, noting that when democratic forces ‘are scattered’, as a rule, significant changes are not possible.

Yulia Tymoshenko has no plans to resign

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-16T15:32:50-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua During a meeting today with the Our Ukraine – People’s Self-Defense faction, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko announced that she is not planning to resign as head of government now that the election campaign is over. "We heard from the Prime Minister that she does not intend to resign," People’s Deputy Roman Zvarych (OU-PSD) said after the meeting. According to him, Yulia Tymoshenko’s position is based on the fact that "there are no legal or other connections between the presidential elections and parliament, and in particular, the government." Yulia Tymoshenko also said that she will try to preserve and consolidate the democratic coalition comprised of BYuT, OU-PSD and the Lytvyn Bloc, reports Roman Zvarych.

Defending Democracy: Tymoshenko Takes Battle to the Courts

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-15T12:42:29-05:00

In particular, the premier cited irregularities in the southern autonomous region of Crimea – a Russian-speaking stronghold of Mr Yanukovych – where she alleged 3-8 percent of votes were fraudulently given to him. She said that overall Mr Yanukovych’s team had stolen more than one million votes, more then enough to sway the result in his favour. ...While election monitors were quick to declare the election process had been “free and fair,” there has been growing disquiet that their proclamations were too premature, considering the fraud demonstrated by Mr Yanukovych’s supporters five years ago. “Yanukovych’s team has learned much since 2004,” said First Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Turchynov, “the falsifications we have witnessed are less obvious and much harder to verify, but they are there.” In her address, Ms Tymoshenko said that several observers from the Organisation for Cooperation and Security in Europe (OSCE) election monitoring mission supported her challenge and were concerned at “systematic fraud.” ...It meant that in 38,000 polling stations nationwide, local Party of Regions commissioners had the power to sign-off the results without the approval from commission members from the Bloc of Yulia Tymoshenko (BYuT).

Yulia Tymoshenko’s headquarters ready for simultaneous recount

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-11T11:20:18-05:00

BYuT supports the proposal made by one of the leaders of the Party of Regions, Oleksandr Yefremov, for a simultaneous recount of votes in eastern Ukraine and the Lviv oblast, Oleksandr Turchynov, the head of Yulia Tymoshenko’s campaign headquarters, has announced. ...If Yanukovych and his campaign offices have publicly stated they support fair and legitimate elections, let’s start the recount in the Donetsk and Lviv oblasts today," Oleksandr Turchynov said. He recalled that the largest number of violations was in the Donetsk oblast, where the Party of Regions has total control. That is why BYuT is insisting on a recount in this oblast, "because from the get go it was clear that Yanukovych’s results had been rigged." According to Oleksandr Turchynov, it doesn’t matter for BYuT which oblast the Party of Regions selects for a recount. ... If the Party of Regions wants to check Lviv, we’re ready," he said.

Oleksandr Turchynov: there are no grounds for the government to step down

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-11T11:18:06-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua There are no legal grounds for the current government to step down, First Vice Prime Minister Oleksandr Turchynov believes. "I see no motives for this. Once they assume responsibility and form a new coalition, then, of course, this is possible, but I’m curious as to how the communists, nationalists-patriots and Regions Party will create a joint coalition," Oleksandr Turchynov said today in the Cabinet of Ministers. He stressed that the government is working according to the Constitution and can only be dismissed after pre-term parliamentary elections are held and a new majority is formed. "As far as I know, there have been no parliamentary announcements about this (pre-term elections)," he added.

7-8% of votes in Mykolayiv oblast rigged in favor of Viktor Yanukovych

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-11T11:17:52-05:00

As a result of massive fraud committed by Viktor Yanukovych’s team in the second round of the presidential elections, Yulia Tymoshenko lost 7-8% of votes in the Mykolayiv oblast. "164 appeals have been sent to the CEC, but there has been no response to them so far. 7-8% of votes for Yulia Tymoshenko in the Mykolayiv oblast were stolen," Mykhailo Miney, a member of district election commission 130 in the city of Mykolayiv, said during a press conference. According to him, their district election commission received numerous complaints, reflecting the extent of the fraud. "We had people come to us with photographs, telling us about fraud committed by the Party of Regions. This included driving large numbers of people to the polling stations in buses, where campaigning for Yanukovych took place," he said. ...Miney added that the commission received testimonies of witnesses to attempts to bribe people with money and vodka.

BYuT: Yulia Tymoshenko’s team will defend its results despite falsification

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-08T11:01:42-05:00

The vote in Eastern and Southern Ukraine is distorted because of fraud, but Yulia Tymoshenko’s team will defend its result. "There was especially large distortion of the vote in Eastern and Southern Ukraine, and partly in the center. This includes election commissions adding citizens to the voter lists without court decisions, ‘carousels’, disappearing ink, and numerous other violations. That’s why Viktor Yanukovych at this point is 'ahead' of Yulia Tymoshenko. However, our team will make every effort to protect its result," said Olena Shustik, the deputy head of BYuT. According to her, "it’s still early to draw conclusions and for supporters of the leader of the Party of Regions to rejoice in victory.

Yulia Tymoshenko achieves convincing victory in 17 regions of Ukraine

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-08T11:00:31-05:00

According to Turchynov, Yulia Tymoshenko achieved a victory in the Vinnytsia (70%), Volyn (79.5%), Ivano-Frankivsk (87%) and Rivne (76%) oblasts. Yulia Tymoshenko was also supported by 49% of residents in the Zakarpattia oblast, 57.4% of residents in the Zhytomyr oblast, 69.4% of residents in the Kyiv oblast, 54.2% of residents in the Kirovohrad oblast, and 53% of residents in the Poltava oblast. She gained a convincing victory in the Lviv (87%), Ternopil (87%), Khmelnytsky (64%), Cherkasy (64%), Chernivtsi (66%) and Chernihiv (62%) oblasts and city of Kyiv (65%). Oleksandr Turchynov added that it is very difficult to count votes from the east and west of the country because of delayed protocols.

Yulia Tymoshenko’s team will not recognize the results from polling stations where she had no representatives

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-07T13:36:12-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua Yulia Tymoshenko’s campaign headquarters intends to demand that the results of voting at those polling stations where representatives of Yulia Tymoshenko could not work as of members of election commissions be invalidated. "Many of our polling station commission members in the Donetsk oblast weren't allowed to work, and of course we will demand that the results from these polling stations not be recognized," Yulia Tymoshenko’s campaign manager Oleksandr Turchynov has said. According to him, this applies to nearly one thousand polling stations. "We will have exact information in 1.5-2 hours regarding cases where our people weren’t given the right to become election commission members because the commission’s decision was blocked, or they simply weren’t allowed into the polling station."

BYuT will have preliminary results of parallel vote count after midnight

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-07T13:37:13-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua Yulia Tymoshenko’s campaign manager Oleksandr Turchynov was reported that they plan to have results of a parallel vote count just after midnight. "Given that there are only two candidates for President, I think we’ll have preliminary results by morning, or most likely by 1am," he said during a press conference at their press center. The parallel vote count will be conducted via a computerized tally of results called in and copies of vote protocols from polling station and district election commissions.

Yulia Tymoshenko casts her ballot

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-07T13:32:05-05:00

Prime Minister and presidential candidate Yulia Tymoshenko cast her ballot today at polling station 2, territorial election district 26 in Dnipropetrovsk, located at the Dnipropetrovsk State Medical Academy. She was accompanied by her daughter Eugenia and husband Oleksandr. After she voted, Yulia Tymoshenko said she was in a festive mood today. "I congratulate you on this holiday of democracy, when people can freely express their position and vote for a democratic country. I voted for a new Ukraine, a happy and prosperous European state. And it is precisely in such a state that every person can find his or her place and happiness."

Ukraine votes for a new President

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-07T13:31:58-05:00

If, as a result of the repeat vote, both running candidates received an equal number of votes, the elections of the President of Ukraine shall be declared such, that have not taken place. The Central Election Commission shall at its session on the basis of the protocols of the territorial election commissions on the results of the repeat vote within the respective territorial election districts and no later than on the tenth day from the day of the repeat voting determine the results of the repeat vote in the elections of the President of Ukraine. The newly elected President of Ukraine shall assume office no later than thirty days after the official announcement of the results of the elections. The assumption of the office of the President by the newly elected President of Ukraine shall take effect as of the date he/she takes the oath before the people of Ukraine at a solemn session of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. The Central Election Commission shall issue the newly elected President of Ukraine the certificate of the President of Ukraine after the oath has been taken.

Yanukovych Clears Path to Election Fraud

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-05T19:03:10-05:00

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko expressed her concerns to EU and US ambassadors and representatives of the OSCE/ODIHR election monitor mission. ... Klas Bergman, the director of communications for the OSCE's Parliamentary Assembly, was another to stress the importance of not changing the country's electoral rules between the two rounds. ...MEPs Elmar Brok and Charles Tannock (respectively the European People’s Party and the ECR’s foreign affairs coordinators) issued a press statement saying, "The decision to change the electoral rules in between presidential election rounds now raises serious concerns about the vulnerability of these elections to violations and fraud which could undermine the final result." Foreign Minister Moratinos, on behalf of the EU Spanish Presidency, passed responsibility for the EU's official response to High Representative Baroness Catherine Ashton. In a statement she said, “I call on all candidates to ensure that the will of the people can once more be expressed at the polls this Sunday.” ...At a press conference held yesterday a steely Ms Tymoshenko said, the law “opens a direct path toward the complete falsification of the election."

Hanne Severinsen: Party of Regions trying to repeat 2004

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-04T10:20:07-05:00

As reported, on February 3, parliament adopted in whole the draft law "On amending the Law of Ukraine ‘On elections of the President of Ukraine’", which was submitted by the Party of Regions. Two hundred thirty three members of parliament voted for it. Yulia Tymoshenko gave a public statement in which she stressed: "I want the entire world to know who and on what grounds are they ruining the sprouting shoots of democracy in Ukraine. I want the entire world to know that fair elections in Ukraine have come to an end. And I want the entire world likewise, as all civil society organizations, all democratic people of our country, to give their personal assessment." "I will fight for the law to remain in the edition it was earlier and for elections in the country to take place," added Yulia Tymoshenko.

Yulia Tymoshenko: Ukraine stands before threat of democratic destruction

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-04T10:18:30-05:00

"The law changes all the rules of conducting the election and opens a huge highway toward falsifying the vote. ...As reported, on February 3, parliament adopted in whole the draft law "On amending the Law of Ukraine ‘On elections of the President of Ukraine’", which was submitted by the Party of Regions. ...Yulia Tymoshenko gave a public statement in which she stressed: "I want the entire world to know who and on what grounds are they ruining the sprouting shoots of democracy in Ukraine. I want the entire world to know that fair elections in Ukraine have come to an end. And I want the entire world likewise, as all civil society organizations, all democratic people of our country, to give their personal assessment." "I will fight for the law to remain in the edition it was earlier and for elections in the country to take place," added Yulia Tymoshenko.

Statement by Yulia Tymoshenko regarding changes to presidential election law

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-03T10:16:47-05:00

First of all, I will ask the President of Ukraine – if he feels that he is the guarantor of the Constitution, and that he is responsible for the continuation of democracy in our state - to veto this law immediately. If he does not veto it, then I will assume that the President is a party in all the ongoing processes to destroy honest elections. ...Tomorrow I will invite all ambassadors here in Ukraine to inform them that once the law is signed, elections don’t exist, they have no meaning, because everything, every figure, will be falsified. ...I want the whole world to know that the end has come to honest elections in Ukraine. I want the world, all organizations and democratically-minded individuals in our country to make their assessment. I will fight for the previous version of the law to remain in force, and for elections to take place in Ukraine.

Yulia Tymoshenko: Ukraine will become the home of freedom of speech

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-03T10:15:58-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua After she becomes president, Yulia Tymoshenko will focus on strengthening freedom of speech in Ukraine. "I guarantee that there will be true freedom of speech, and that journalists, who are honest, intelligent and crave freedom, will not be dependent on the owners of central television channels who are constantly trying to influence editorial policy in favor of Yanukovych," Yulia Tymoshenko said today in an evening broadcast on channel 1+1.

Lutsenko Dismissal Raises Fear Over Election Fraud

iBYuT.com — 2010-02-02T08:55:58-05:00

Meanwhile the Party of Regions has sought to muddy the waters by accusing Ms Tymoshenko of attempting to rig the vote before it has even started. ...Even more bizarrely, the Mr Yanukovych claims that Ms Tymoshenko and Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili have hatched a plot to introduce subversive Georgian Election Observers. ...Ms Tymoshenko told Ukrayinska Pravda, "Do you really think that a president can call a prime minister to make some dubious offer by phone? ...“It is clear that the Regions party is trying to steal Tymoshenko’s clothes,” said a British businessman based in Kyiv. “They’re trying to paint a picture in people’s minds that there is no difference between the two candidates when there clearly is.” ...Only last month it challenged in court a decision from the Central Election Commission (CEC) that allowed voting from home without documentation to prove a voter’s invalidity.

Expert: when it comes to fulfilling promises, Yulia Tymoshenko seems more reliable than her competitor

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-29T14:58:20-05:00

According to political analyst Oleksiy Holobutsky, if Yulia Tymoshenko wins the presidential race, there will not be pre-term parliamentary elections. "If Tymoshenko wins, she has the chance of implementing policy. ... When it comes to fulfilling promises, Tymoshenko seems more reliable than her competitor. We won’t have a new parliamentary campaign, and the like. Ukrainians care more about which presidential candidate will ensure stability. In this sense, Tymoshenko looks like convincing and attractive than Yanukovych," he believes.

Political analyst: Yulia Tymoshenko to conduct balanced policy with Europe and Russia

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-29T14:57:04-05:00

Political analyst Kost Bondarenko believes that Ukraine under a Yulia Tymoshenko presidency differs by having a balanced policy in relations with Europe and Russia. "Yulia Tymoshenko is oriented toward adding Ukraine to the Paris-Berlin-Moscow triangle so that this three-sided structure is based on gas transportation priorities. Well, and of course, Ukraine has a huge role to play in this triangle. She has equal relations with European and Russian politics," said Kost Bоndarenko, responding to the question of what kind foreign policy course should Ukraine take and the domestic policy of Yulia Tymoshenko’s presidency. The political observer emphasized that the current Prime Minister is received well in Europe and in Russia alike. "She obviously will accent the need to conduct a balanced policy with Europe and Russia.

Political analyst: Yulia Tymoshenko will be able to reform Ukraine

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-29T14:50:53-05:00

Political analyst Volodymyr Tsybulko believes that as president, Yulia Tymoshenko will be able to reform Ukraine. ...She can implement many projects at once," he said, when asked what path Ukraine will take under a Yulia Tymoshenko presidency. He believes that Yulia Tymoshenko is capable of building a correct social system. "One of the first elements could potentially be health insurance," he said. Tsybulko believes that Yulia Tymoshenko, as a person, is much more interesting for society than Viktor Yanukovych. "She’s interesting because she doesn’t have to enter the public administration system anew.

Yulia Tymoshenko has the best chance of resolving the political crisis

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-29T14:44:59-05:00

Political analyst Vitaliy Bala believes that the main task for the future president is to resolve the political crisis in Ukraine. ...The foreign policy aspect, once these problems are resolved, looks more attractive with Tymoshenko as president than Yanukovych," he said when asked what Ukraine will look like with Tymoshenko as president. Meanwhile, political analyst Ihor Zhdanov added that with Tymoshenko as president, Ukraine will look to Europe. ... The Batkivshchyna Party is an associate member of the European People’s Party and Tymoshenko has good relations with such European leaders as Sakozy, Merkel and others." Zhdanov also believes that the main problem for Yulia Tymoshenko as president will be securing visa-free travel to the European Union. ... She will also take a more pragmatic approach to relations between Ukraine and Russia."

EBRD's assistance favoring modernization of Ukrainian economy

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-29T10:55:28-05:00

The assistance being provided by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to Ukraine bolsters the economic growth, reform and modernization of the country's most important economic branches - energy and energy saving, transport and communications, and municipal infrastructure. Ukrainian Vice-Premier for European and International Integration Hryhoriy Nemyria said this at a meeting with EBRD President Thomas Mirow at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, according to the vice-premier's press service. "The Ukrainian government highly appreciates a constructive cooperation between Ukraine and the EBRD. Financial assistance from the bank is marked by reliability, a clear goal orientation and favorable loan provision conditions," he said. EBRD Director for Ukraine Andre Kuusvek said earlier that the bank's strategy for 2010 did not foresee a reduction in the number of loans for Ukraine. The volume of business operations conducted on the EBRD's projects as of late 2009 totaled EUR 4.8 billion.

Statement by Yulia Tymoshenko on results of first round of presidential elections (video)

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-26T11:52:53-05:00

I believe that his strategic program for stabilizing the economy and reforming Ukraine corresponds, for the most part, with my economic program. I clearly know that votes for Serhiy Tihipko came from people who want change just as much as I do. That’s why my proposal is based on the understanding that the country needs a team that the people can trust and believe in – a team that is capable of making serious changes in the country. In appealing to Serhiy Tihipko with the offer to head the government, I expect that he will give a clear answer so that people can decide who to vote for in the second round.

Tymoshenko Offers Tihipko PM Position

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-26T11:38:24-05:00

Mr Tihipko, who had said earlier that he would not support any candidate, disclosed last week that he had had talks with both Ms Tymoshenko and Mr Yanukovych. “I would like to say that I do not rule out the issue of the premiership,” said Mr Tihipko in an interview with the BBC. He then said that he was ready to “risk his name and position” and take the post. ...A multi-millionaire, he formed Privatbank in 1992 and sold it for nearly $1 billion to the Swedish Swedbank group. He was a campaign advisor to Mr Yanukovych in his failed 2004 bid for the presidency. ... By doing this he avoided association with the allegations of widespread corruption that have dogged Mr Yanukovych’s team.

Between West and East

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-25T09:43:18-05:00

Published in The Globe and Mail Yulia Tymoshenko, the Prime Minister of Ukraine, is the better of the two remaining candidates for the country's presidency, after the first round of the election on Jan. ... She is more liberal, both politically and economically, and more pro-Western than Viktor Yanukovich. ...Yanukovich's vote surpassed hers by 10 percentage points, but the 40 per cent that went to other candidates, now eliminated, is now available for the second round, on Feb. 7. Read the full article at The Globe and Mail

Voters Have Last Chance to Save Orange Revolution in Tense Run-off

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-21T12:12:09-05:00

From her election night headquarters at Kyiv’s Hyatt Hotel, and again at the opening of the Cabinet of Ministers meeting on Wednesday, Ms Tymoshenko reminded journalists that 60 percent of Ukrainians voted for democratic candidates. “This gives us hope, I would even say this gives us confidence in the second round,” said Ms Tymoshenko, “the 60 percent of voters who cast ballots in the first round for different candidates but voted for a democratic choice gives Ukraine hope,” she said. ...Such thinking is based on the fact that Mr Yanukovych has already accessed most of his support and has fewer resources to draw upon in the second round. ...“Let us start the process of uniting the democratic forces and do this in such a way that in a run-off Yanukovych has no chance.” ...Appealing to Mr Yushchenko’s voters, Deputy Prime Minister Hryhoriy Nemyria said, “Those that voted for him need to get behind Yulia Tymoshenko if they want to preserve the country’s national identity.” ... “Yanukovych will turn back the clock and trap Ukraine in a grey zone between Russia and the west, while Tymoshenko will strengthen democracy and take Ukraine to the very heart of Europe.

Tymoshenko offers job to rival

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-21T12:08:42-05:00

Published by Financial Times Yulia Tymoshenko offered the job of prime minister to defeated presidential candidate Sergei Tigipko on Wednesday, in an attempt to win over his supporters ahead of next month’s run-off for the Ukrainian presidency against Viktor Yanukovich. Mr Tigipko, who is seen as kingmaker after being eliminated in the first round, has so far declined to back either candidate. His votes are seen as crucial if Ms Tymoshenko, the current prime minister, is to beat Mr Yanukovich, who won the first round by a margin of 10 points. Mr Tigipko won 13 per cent of the first round votes. Read the full story at ft.com

Yanukovych and Tymoshenko: Foreign and Security Policies

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-21T12:02:25-05:00

No country can be in two customs unions (SND YES and a Free Trade Zone with the EU), but such contradictions are quite common for the Party of Regions. ...Yanukovych is seeking to embolden his pro-European credentials (Ukrayinska Pravda, January 19), but there is strong suspicion that the rhetoric is as empty of content as it was under Kuchma. The Party of Regions has not shown itself to be a pro-European political force by turning, for example, its back on the election fraud five years ago. ...The center-right European Peoples Party, in which Batkivschina is a member, issued a statement in support of Tymoshenko calling upon all “Ukrainian democratic forces” to back her in the second round (http://vybory.tymoshenko.ua, January 18). ...Ukraine’s oligarchs see the Free Trade Zone and visa free regime in a positive light, as opening up a large market and trading area, while looking aghast at the huge number of Copenhagen criteria-style requirements that Ukraine will be forced to undertake. ...In the 2010 elections, the Party of Regions protested over the appearance of 2,011 Georgian observers, whom it described in Russian-style tones as a pro-Tymoshenko paramilitary force seeking to emulate the democratic revolutions of 2000-2004 (Ukrayinska Pravda, January 18, 19).

European People's Party urges support for Tymoshenko in runoff

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-19T12:18:54-05:00

He congratulated Tymoshenko for receiving about 25% of the vote in Ukraine's first round of presidential elections and passing into the second round slated for Feb. 7. "I believe that a strong foundation for Tymoshenko's victory in the second round of the elections was laid down today," Martens said adding: "The victory of Yulia Tymoshenko in the second round is the victory for Ukraine's clear European choice."

Yanukovych refuses to debate Tymoshenko

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-19T12:01:51-05:00

The refusal of Yanukovych to participate in a televised debate coincided with the publication of an open letter signed by the country’s leading political experts and sociologists for Yanukovych and Tymoshenko debate one another on television before the second round vote scheduled for Feb. 7. A signatory of the appeal, Volodymyr Fesenko, chairman of the Penta Center for Applied Political Studies, said Yanukovych’s refusal to debate Tymoshenko illustrated the “uncivilized and primitive” manner in which Yanukovych has chosen to conduct the remainder of the presidential campaign.

EPP Congratulates Yulia Tymoshenko - Democratic Forces Must Rally Around Yulia's Presidential Campaign

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-19T10:16:40-05:00

For the second round, the EPP expresses its support to Yulia Tymoshenko, since she is the only democratic pro-European candidate. Thus, the EPP calls on all democratic forces of Ukraine and the EPP partners in Ukraine to consolidate and support Yulia Tymoshenko, in order to prevent the return of the political forces of the past, to preserve the ideals of the Orange Revolution, and to open a new European path for Ukraine. I call on all other democratic candidates of the first round not to abstain from the second round and to unite their efforts in order to support democracy in Ukraine. The victory of Yulia Tymoshenko in the second round is the victory for Ukraine’s clear European choice,” stated Wilfried Martens. Yulia Tymoshenko and her party belong to the largest and most influential European political family – the European People’s Party - which currently includes 72 member-parties from 39 countries, 13 EU and 6 non-EU heads of state and government, the Presidents of the Council, Commission and Parliament, as well as the largest Group in the European Parliament.

Gap between Viktor Yanukovych and Yulia Tymoshenko is no more than 4%

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-18T10:34:18-05:00

He noted that the given results were based on protocols received from 99% of all polling stations. As reported, authorized representative of presidential candidate Yulia Tymoshenko in the Ivano-Frankivsk oblast Yuriy Romaniuk claims that the more than 10% gap between Yulia Tymoshenko and Viktor Yanukovych is artificial and the result of instructions issued by the Central Election Commission. "The district election commissions in western regions of Ukraine received instructions from the CEC to hold on to the vote tally protocols until January 19," Yuriy Romaniuk reported. He believes this will allow the Party of Regions to manipulate the numbers and attempt to show people their candidate’s advantage over Yulia Tymoshenko. "As a result of the withholding of protocols, votes cast in western Ukraine, where Yulia Tymoshenko is the undisputed leader, won’t be counted in the results," he stressed.

Support from democratic forces electorate to ensure Yulia Tymoshenko victory

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-18T10:33:11-05:00

Political analyst Viktor Nebozhenko believes that more than half of voters who in the first round voted for other candidates from the democratic camp will vote for Yulia Tymoshenko in the second round of voting. "Irrespective of whether Tymoshenko’s talks with outsider candidates are successful, more than half of voters who voted for Serhiy Tihipko, Arseniy Yatseniuk, Viktor Yushchenko and Volodymyr Lytvyn will certainly supporter her," Viktor Nebozhenko said in an interview with Deutsche Welle. He believes this kind of support for Yulia Tymoshenko will help her beat Viktor Yanukovych in the presidential election vote. As reported, presidential candidate Yulia Tymoshenko had earlier announced that she is ready to start negotiations with candidates from the democratic forces regarding consolidation for her victory in the runoff vote. ...I think this is the task of all democratic forces who represent 60% of the people so that in the second round Yanukovych doesn’t get one additional vote," Yulia Tymoshenko said. She appealed to those voters who voted in the first round for other democratic camp representatives with the call to support her candidacy in the second round of voting.

Mykola Tomenko: televised debates will play an important role in round two

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-17T18:52:10-05:00

He believes that "in this struggle for Ukraine, independent of the positions taken by Arseniy Yatseniuk, Viktor Yushchenko and other candidates who have positioned themselves as representatives of the democratic camp, their voters will vote for a democratic, European and patriotic country." "As such, they will vote for Yulia Tymoshenko," Mykola Tomenko believes. Overall, the people's deputy was optimistic about the course and results of the election based on the first round exit polls: Mykola Tomenko does not see much of a problem in the 4-7% gap between the candidates that will go on to the second round. "It should be noted that Viktor Yanukovych united around him all his supporters, while Yulia Tymoshenko has a very large resource among the supporters of other candidates who did not make it to the second round," explained Mykola Tomenko.

Yulia Tymoshenko headquarters satisfied with preliminary results

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-17T18:52:01-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua The head of Yulia Tymoshenko’s campaign headquarters Oleksandr Turchynov has said that the preliminary results of voting in the first round of presidential elections give them optimism. "I’m confident that the second round, which will be held in three weeks, won’t bring any surprises but great joy for our country and its future," Oleksandr Turchynov said at a press conference.

Next week BYuT to insist on consideration of legislation to curb election fraud

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-17T11:36:30-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua The Yulia Tymoshenko Bloc will insist that the Verkhovna Rada make the consideration of changes to the presidential election law during the next plenary week a priority issue. "We will insist that changes being blocked by the Party of Regions be made to the presidential election law," First Vice Prime Minister Oleksandr Turchynov said during a briefing. On January 14, people’s deputy from BYuT Serhiy Mishchenko announced that BYuT will demand that the draft changes to the presidential election law be considered during the next session of the Verkhovna Rada on January 19. "We don’t have much time left for all the procedures, for the President to sign the law, and to publish it before the second round of elections," he said

Yulia Tymoshenko casts her vote for president

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-17T11:33:57-05:00

The presidential candidate stressed that she’s not worried about being #13 on the ballot, because "nothing will prevent Ukraine from being happy," adding that she’s in a great mood today. Yulia Tymoshenko informed that her mother accompanied her to the polling station and plans to spend the rest of the day with her family. After voting, Yulia Tymoshenko and her family will fly to Kyiv.

Ukraine to elect a new President

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-17T11:32:33-05:00

9. puts forward, upon the proposal by the parliamentary coalition formed in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine as provided for by Article 83 of the Constitution of Ukraine, the submission on the appointment by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine of the Prime Minister of Ukraine, no later than fifteen days after the receipt of such a proposal; ...17. is the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine; appoints to office and dismisses from office the high command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and other military formations; administers in the spheres of national security and defense of the State; ...19. puts forward to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine the submission on the declaration of a state of war, and, in case of armed aggression against Ukraine, adopts a decision on the use of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and other military formations established in accordance with laws of Ukraine; 20. adopts a decision in accordance with the law on the general or partial mobilization and the introduction of martial law in Ukraine or in its particular areas, in the event of a threat of aggression, danger to the state independence of Ukraine; 21. adopts a decision, in the event of necessity, on the introduction of a state of emergency in Ukraine or in its particular areas, and also in the event of necessity, declares certain areas of Ukraine as zones of an ecological emergency situation — with subsequent confirmation of these decisions by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine; ...30. has the right to veto laws adopted by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine (except for laws on amendments to the Constitution of Ukraine) with their subsequent return for repeat consideration by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine;

Ukraine is Europe

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-14T10:28:30-05:00

Prime Minister and presidential candidate Yulia Tymoshenko believes Ukraine’s main foreign policy priority should be membership in the European Union. ...Ukraine is Europe, and Europe will have to reckon with this fact," Yulia Tymoshenko said in an interview in the Lviv newspaper "Express." According to the Prime Minister, the issue of Ukraine’s full integration into European structures is only a matter of time. ... I think that Ukraine will become a full-fledged member of the European Union very soon." She recalled that "when Europe was only getting up on its feet, Kyiv already had Europe's largest library, and alumni of medieval Ukrainian universities "were valued as much as graduates of Harvard and Oxford today. ...At the same time she stressed that as the head of government she protects Ukraine’s national interests in relations with Russia.

Association Agreement with EU will be signed this year

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-14T10:28:29-05:00

To achieve this goal, Yulia Tymoshenko identified five priorities: removing oligarchs from power, ensuring sustainable human development, energy independence for Ukraine, reforming medicine, education and research as well as 'creating Europe in Ukraine.' "I believe that correctly chosen priorities, properly mobilized work could actually change the situation," concluded Yulia Tymoshenko In an earlier interview, the Prime Minister announced that European Union membership should be Ukraine’s top priority. "My main principle in the foreign policy of Ukraine is very concise: “EU-YES”. ...According to her, the issue of Ukraine’s full integration with European structures is only a matter of time. ... I think that Ukraine very quicikly will become a full-fledged member of the European Union," Yulia Tymoshenko said convincingly.

Ukraine is a reliable energy partner

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-14T10:28:29-05:00

Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko has promised that Ukraine will always be a reliable energy partner for Europe. "Ukraine, will remain a reliable partner as a transporter of natural gas to Europe," she said today during a press conference. The Prime Minister underscored that the contract signed with Russia for ten years and is the foundation and guarantee of stability and predictability. Earlier she had noted that Ukraine continues to pay its gas bill on time and in full. ...Yulia Tymoshenko also assured that in 2010 Ukraine will ensure the stable transit of Russian gas. ...We will not, and everyone should be sure of this," she said.

Yulia Tymoshenko’s government improves investment climate

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-15T10:28:36-05:00

Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) has restored its programs in Ukraine, which will help increase American investment in Ukraine. "OPIC is pleased to once again make available its support for U.S. investment in Ukraine, a development which we anticipate will send a highly positive signal to prospective investors in the country," said OPIC Acting President Dr. ...According to Spinelli, "This historic occasion is indicative of Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to improve its investment climate, and we commend the Ukrainian government for its hard work in bringing about this result. We look forward to working with both U.S. and Ukrainian businesses to facilitate new levels of American investment in Ukraine." The original dispute involved OPIC payment in 1999 of an insurance claim to the U.S. sponsor of a project in Ukraine and a prolonged inability to settle the dispute resulted in suspension of OPIC programs in the country. Previously, OPIC had provided more than $254 million in financing and insurance to 21 projects in Ukraine.

Yulia Tymoshenko's "Strong Community - Strong State" program

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-12T11:40:26-05:00

Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko signed a five-year agreement on regional development of the Volyn oblast between the Cabinet of Ministers and the Volyn Oblast Council. ...This will coordinate the strategic development of each oblast and will ensure financing," Yulia Tymoshenko said during a working visit to the Volyn oblast. ..."This agreement isn’t just an organizational documents, it’s a clear financial document," Yulia Tymoshenko underscored. The documents establishes the figure of 2.257 billion hryvnias over a period of five years to be used to finance joint activities. According to current estimates, the government will work with the Volyn oblast to implement more than 50 investment projects that have already been planned. According to her, the economic effect of such investments is expected to exceed 1 billion hryvnias.

BYuT Takes Action to Prevent Election Fraud

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-11T15:10:07-05:00

Meanwhile, Ms Tymoshenko said that she would call for an extraordinary session of the Verkhovna Rada (parliament) if the CEC decision had not been cancelled by 8 January. ...“We will also appeal to foreign embassies in Ukraine as well as to foreign governments via our embassies abroad, informing them that Viktor Yanukovych and his corrupt members in the CEC are involved in preparing to falsify election results,” she said. ...During the 2007 parliamentary election a similar ploy was thwarted by BYuT resorting to legal action. Then, on 13 August 2007, the CEC relaxed the rules ahead of the September election, stating that a hand-written note was all that was required to avoid a trip to the polling station. On 25 August a legal action launched by BYuT and the Our Ukraine – People’s Self Defence bloc was successful. The Higher Administrative Court ruled that each application for a home vote should be checked stringently by the district polling station.

As President, Yulia Tymoshenko will create a stable coalition in parliament

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-06T12:09:29-05:00

Mykola Tomenko believes that this reformatting of forces in parliament will make it possible to avoid early elections to the Verkhovna Rada. The Vice Speaker also suggested that in the event Yulia Tymoshenko loses, 5 to 10 BYuT deputies will leave the faction. "But we will not have as radical a break up as the Party of Regions, because the Party of Regions has several decision-making centers, and we have only one center of decision-making," he explained. He believes that the ten deputies that could leave BYuT won’t give Viktor Yanukovych the necessary resource in parliament to feel confident and not hold early elections to the Verkhovna Rada. Mykola Tomenko has also stated that he is in favor of holding early parliamentary elections. "This parliament has exhausted its potential," he believes.

Yushchenko and Yanukovych sign secret deal

iBYuT.com — 2009-12-25T10:47:32-05:00

"It's no secret that relations between the Party of Regions and Presidential Secretariat are developing actively, as evidenced by regular visits to the Presidential Secretariat by the Party of Regions leadership. I want to note that the final straw that prompted me to act decisively was the document that I saw – a confidential agreement between Viktor Yanukovych and Viktor Yushchenko, in which they agreed to collaborate during the elections and the political future," Yaroslav Kozachok said today during a press conference. According to him, the agreement stipulates that Viktor Yushchenko and Viktor Yanukovych agree to abstain from mutual criticism and use all available means to support the Party of Regions leader in the second round. "They also ensure that Viktor Yushchenko will be nominated for prime minister and his candidacy will be supported by the parliamentary majority," Yaroslav Kozachok said. ...This was a difficult decision to make, but there are things that stand higher than personal interests," he said. Yaroslav Kozachok believes that Viktor Yushchenko and his Secretariat deliberately blocked government decisions, necessary laws and acts, including changes to the Budget Code, the law on combating money laundering, the financing of health care, decisions on privatization and the creation of the State Migration Service.

IMF Grants Ukraine $2 Billion Lifeline

iBYuT.com — 2010-01-04T10:29:01-05:00

However, a $3.8 billion tranche due in November was withheld when parliament passed legislation to hike social spending by 20 percent, with increases in the minimum wage and pensions. The populist measures, condemned by both the IMF and the government of Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, were pushed through by the Party of Regions led by presidential candidate Viktor Yanukovych. ...“This is a significant positive for Ukraine, and should enable it to get through the difficult New Year period without a repeat of the damaging gas supply disruptions which have now almost become an annual event in Ukraine. ...“We warmly welcome this development,” said Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, “and we will of course do everything possible to facilitate a consensus that will enable the resumption of ...“Agreement with the authorities on a 2010 budget, with the assurance of broad political support, would provide the basis for renewed progress and a resumption of disbursements under the Fund-supported programme,” said Mr Alier. ...Confirmation that both parties had reached a deal – which foresees Russia paying a rise in transit fees of 30 percent in 2010 – has allayed fears of another disruption of energy supplies to EU states.

Experts rate government anti-crisis steps as effective

iBYuT.com — 2009-12-25T17:56:11-05:00

According to the expert, government has implemented measures which helped "soften crisis manifestations for certain economic sectors and strata of society. In particular, [the government] managed to buttress the social sphere despite all of the present problems. The social sphere is the most legally protected…Taking into account the specific gravity of protected budget items, reduction in budget expenditures, as was successfully done in other countries, didn’t happen in Ukraine." The economist also emphasized that "over the course of the year, the government in fact worked as a minority in spite of a parliamentary coalition, because throughout the year the government had to react to opposition from the National Bank of Ukraine. Thus, we have been witnesses to constant opposition of institutions of power." During the roundtable, political analyst Ihor Zhdanov also voiced certainty that "in spite of the apocalyptic scenarios at the beginning of the year that the country won’t have money to pay salaries and pensions, the government managed to hold on to the socio-economic situation."

Yulia Tymoshenko’s Christmas Greetings

iBYuT.com — 2009-12-24T17:54:05-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko has wished Christians of the Western Rite a Merry Christmas and wished that Jesus bless Ukraine and bring confidence in a better future. "I wish all believers of Ukraine who celebrate Christmas according to the Western Rite, happiness and love." According to Yulia Tymoshenko, this holiday "for more than two thousand years has been giving people hope for eternal life and the victory of good over evil."

Ukraine's economy starts recovery

iBYuT.com — 2009-12-29T17:33:02-05:00

Published in Xinhua/Kyiv Post Although Ukraine's gross domestic product (GDP) suffered a decline in 2009 compared with the previous year, the country's economy has touched the bottom and began bouncing back, Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko said on Tuesday while summing up the government's main achievements in 2009. Read The Full Article

Government continues to implement energy strategy for Ukraine

iBYuT.com — 2009-12-22T11:34:10-05:00

The first unit of the Dnister Hydroelectric Power Plant was launched today, December 22. The second and third units will be launched in 2011 and 2012, respectively. The Dnister HPP, which is being built in the Chernivtsi oblast on the Dnister River , is one of the largest pumped storage electric power plants in the world.. ... Its main function is to regulate the frequency and schedule of the load on the Ukrainian electricity system and build an emergency reserve of electricity. According to the project, it will have an electric output of 2268 megawatts in generating mode and 2947 megawatts in pumping mode. ...The overall cost of the project is 5.8 billion hryvnia.

BYuT to initiate consideration of State Budget immediately after New Year

iBYuT.com — 2009-12-22T11:31:42-05:00

BYuT wants to hold an extraordinary session of parliament immediately after the New Year to adopt the State Budget for 2010. "If parliament repeals the corresponding decision to return the budget to the Cabinet of Ministers, the 1300 amendments already approved by the budget committee in the draft law on the State Budget for 2010 will be forwarded to the government. The government will take them into account or not, and present a draft budget in the session hall to review in a second reading. Clearly, we will then need to convene an extraordinary session at any time, and I think, right after the New Year.... To vote for the budget in the current edition," said BYuT deputy Serhiy Sobolev. On November 20, the Verkhovna Rada adopted the resolution "On sending for revision the draft Law ‘On the State Budget for 2010."

Ukraine’s IMF obligations remain valid

iBYuT.com — 2009-12-17T16:02:14-05:00

Talks in IMF’s headquarters in the U.S. will be led by acting Finance Mnister Ihor Umansky and his deputy Anatoliy Miarkovsky. As is generally known, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko earlier announced that the topic of IMF discussions remains the third review of the cooperation program. "Right now discussions are underway regarding a stable form of cooperation and which should be the third review of the program. Discussions are still ongoing," she said. The IMF in November 2008 approved a decision to implement a two-year stand-by loan program for Ukraine totaling $16.4 billion. Since 2008, Ukraine has already received three installments of the IMF loan totaling $12 billion.

Government delegation to clarify figures for IMF standy-by program

iBYuT.com — 2009-12-17T16:02:17-05:00

Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko had earlier said that the subject of negotiations with the IMF is the third review of the cooperation program. "The negotiation process is underway, and we are discussing requirements for joint cooperation and the third review of the program. The talks did not stop,” she has said. Ukraine has so far received close to $11 billion of the $16.4 billon two-year stand-by program that was approved by the IMF in November 2008.

EPP Throws Weight Behind Tymoshenko

iBYuT.com — 2009-12-16T09:11:57-05:00

The twice convicted Mr Yanukovych – who was President Viktor Yushchenko’s rival in the fraudulent election of 2004 – is tipped to lead the polls after the first round. ..."The European [People's] Party is calling on all democratic forces in Ukraine and the partners of the European People's Party to unite and support the most democratic and pro-European candidate who will win through to the run-off, with the goal of preventing the return of political forces of the past and defending the ideals of the Orange Revolution," he said. ...The premier’s centrist pro-European platform has long struck a chord with the EPP’s leaders, as has her ability to construct a pragmatic working relationship with Russia’s leaders. ...“I am particularly pleased that today we are the largest political party in Europe,” said Mr Martens, who is a former prime minister of Belgium. “We won for the third time in a row the European elections earlier this year and have the largest group in parliament led by Joseph Daul. ... With the Lisbon Treaty now in force and with many serious challenges ahead, it is my privilege to continue to offer leadership at this crucial moment for Europe.”

Ukraine appeals to IMF for $2bn loan

iBYuT.com — 2009-12-11T10:02:07-05:00

Published in Financial Times By Stefan Wagstyl and Roman Olearchyk Ukraine has made an urgent appeal to the International Monetary Fund for about $2bn in emergency loans to ease “an extremely difficult situation” in meeting its external obligations and avoid the danger of a “spill-over effect” on other economically vulnerable states. “The next three months are crucial,” Hryhoriy Nemyria, Ukraine’s deputy prime minister, told the Financial Times one day after returning from a mission to the IMF’s headquarters in Washington. Read the full article at FT.com

Tymoshenko discusses with Merkel IMF stand-by loan, EU financial assistance

iBYuT.com — 2009-12-11T09:57:54-05:00

The meeting took place after the congress of the European People's Party in Bonn on Thursday. "A brief meeting of the premier and German Chancellor Angela Merkel took place. The principal issue for discussion was the continuation of cooperation with the IMF as well as the prospects for the implementation of the EU decision about the provision of the macro-financial assistance to Ukraine [to the tune of EUR 610 million]," he said. Nemyria added that Tymoshenko and Merket discussed the prospects of the European Union's issuing EUR 500 million as a second tranche of assistance to Ukraine and the possible approval of this decision by the European Parliament, as though the provision of funds has already been agreed with the European Commission, their disbursement is conditioned by the continuation of cooperation with the IMF. The vice-premier added that the government wants to use these funds to support the state budget.

Yulia Tymoshenko’s government fulfilling IMF obligations

iBYuT.com — 2009-12-08T13:52:33-05:00

As is generally known, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko is counting on the Inernational Monetary Fund to continue cooperation with Ukraine within the framework of the two-year stand-by loan program. "We are fighting for continued cooperation and I think this will be achieved by the end of the year,” said Yulia Tymoshenko. For the time being, only acting Finance Minister Ihor Umansky and Yulia Tymoshenko have signed the letter on continued cooperation. In this way, Ukraine, having sent the IMF signatures from the heads of government, state and National Bank, should demonstrate its unified position regarding the conditions for continued cooperation and the receipt of the fourth loan installment. As is generally known, the International Monetary Fund in November 2008 approved a decision to start a two-year stand-by loan program with Ukraine for the amount of $16.4 billion. Ukraine has since 2008 received three tranches from the IMF totaling $12 billion.

Ukraine-EU Summit Calls for Reforms

iBYuT.com — 2009-12-07T15:16:02-05:00

He said, “A major component of this agreement is a deep and comprehensive Free Trade Area agreement that will benefit Ukrainian businesses and give them access to the world’s largest trading bloc.” ...One of the uppermost considerations of EU officials was to emphasise the need for stable energy relations with Russia, so as to avoid any recurrence of last January’s damaging gas dispute which saw gas supplies cut off to hundreds of thousands of EU households. ..."There is a lot of patience that has been lost with the European consumers when it comes to the conflicts linked to energy," said the Swedish premier. ...In a meeting with EU officials, Ms Tymoshenko pledged that Ukraine would do its utmost to guarantee predictable and stable energy supplies. “We have everything [we need] for Ukraine to be a very reliable partner in gas supplies during the autumn-winter period," she said. ...Ms Tymoshenko said that her government was doing all it could to bring about a resolution which would require a unified position and commitment from the government, the National Bank of Ukraine and the president.

European Party of Ukraine supports candidate for President Yulia Tymoshenko

iBYuT.com — 2009-12-04T14:05:51-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua The European Party of Ukraine supports Yulia Tymoshenko as candidate for post of President of Ukraine. This decision was made today during the party's V convention in Kyiv. Speaking at the convention, the head of the European Party of Ukraine Mykola Katerynchuk said: "Ukraine will have the chance for a European movement only if a candidate from the democratic forces is elected. And only Yulia Tymoshenko is capable of victory." 280 of the 285 delegates voted in favor of the resolution.

Ukraine pays for Russian gas on time and in full

iBYuT.com — 2009-12-04T14:03:22-05:00

State-owned Naftohaz Ukraine timely paid Russia’s gas monopoly, Gazprom, the full amount of money for the import of gas used in November 2009. ...Naftohaz confirmed once more its reputation as a reliable and steady partner. "In spite of all the internal economic and political difficulties, the company is continuing along its strategic task: securing sufficient volumes of natural gas for Ukrainian consumers and fulfilling the uninterrupted transit of natural gas on the territory of Ukraine," announced Naftohaz. As is generally know, acting Finance Minister Ihor Umansky , said that Naftohaz must pay $770 million to Gazprom for consumed natural gas in November. Should a late payment occur, the contract then changes to one stipulating advanced payments for gas. Ukraine has not missed a payment to Gazprom yet for the supply of gas.

Ukraine is confidently coming out of the crisis

iBYuT.com — 2009-12-01T12:18:10-05:00

Ukraine is gradually but confidently coming out of the recession. This was announced by Yulia Tymoshenko during her working visit to Lviv on Tuesday, December 1. "Month by month we see normal dynamics of economic recovery. By March 1, we are planning to be completely done with the crisis and return to all the vigorous social programs that we initiated in the beginning of 2008," the head of the government stated. "I think that in 2-3 months we will forget about all these political battles and disorder, and we will build a true state authority, tough, clear, reliable Ukrainian leadership, and Ukraine will be certainly strong. I want you to believe in this," Yulia Tymoshenko added during her address to Lviv residents.

Yulia Tymoshenko expresses condolences over Nevsky Express train accident

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-28T18:28:10-05:00

Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko has sent a government telegram to Vladimir Putin asking the Russian Prime Minister to pass along her condolences to the families of the victims of the accident involving the Nevsky Express train. "On behalf of the Ukrainian government and me personally, please express our condolences to the families and friends of the deceased and wishes for a quick recovery to the injured," reads the telegram. The Nevsky Express train traveling from Moscow to St. Petersburg derailed on Friday night, November 27, near the border of the Tver and Novgorod regions of Russia. According to preliminary information, 25-39 people died and 96 were hospitalized. Approximately 20 are unaccounted for.

There will be no "gas" fines or crisis

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-27T18:26:47-05:00

He also stressed that this trend is noticed in other countries, which is why he was able to come to an agreement with Gazprom concerning the decrease in gas volume for 2009 and 2010. ..."I think we will receive the final gas price for the first quarter of 2010 in December…right now negotiations are underway with our partners," he reported. ...As is generally known, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko announced that she doesn’t see any grounds for political intrigue regarding the gas issue. "Ukraine has almost for a year worked calmly and despite the hysteria of politicians, it has paid for gas on time, pumped and stored gas without problems and it’s unpleasant for me to see political intrigue surround the gas issue because it is unfounded," emphasized Yulia Tymoshenko. In addition to this, she said, there is a solid agreement with the Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin in which Ukraine will not have to pay fines for not purchasing the prior agreed to amount of gas. "As we agreed at the end of the year during which we’ll be drafting our annual acts that we’ll sign everything so that it will be confirmed on paper," stressed Yulia Tymoshenko.

Vladimir Putin wishes Yulia Tymoshenko happiness and goodwill

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-27T18:21:48-05:00

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin congratulated Yulia Tymoshenko on her birthday. "Accept my heartfelt greetings on your birthday and allow me to wish you happiness, goodwill, health, a good mood and success in your work," reads the greeting. Vladimir Putin thanked Yulia Tymoshenko for her hospitality in Yalta. "The talks were very intensive and effective," he noted. On November 19, the Fifth Meeting of the Committee for Economic Cooperation of the Ukraine-Russia Intergovernmental Commission, chaired by Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, was held in Yalta. On November 20, Yalta hosted the Summit of CIS Heads of Government.

Tymoshenko to attend European People's Party congress in December

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-24T12:41:17-05:00

"President of the European Commission [Jose Manuel] Barroso, President of the European Parliament [Jerzy] Buzek, and several leaders of the leading European countries will speak with her on this subject," Nemyria said. He said that Tymoshenko would attend the EPP summit a week after the European People's Party's participation in an international conference on energy efficiency in Stockholm, Sweden, on Nov. 26.

Premiers Agree on Position on Gas

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-23T12:09:03-05:00

Mr Putin remarked that Russia was taking into account the effects of the economic downturn and that this was good international practice and “not a sort of insidious exclusive for Ukraine.” ...“The contract brokered this year has proven to be a reliable framework,” said a British-based energy trader, “the removal of RosUkrEnergo was a major coup for Tymoshenko and establishing market prices in 2010 for supply and transit is perceived as a good thing. ...“Beginning 1 January, 2010, Ukraine will for the first time receive a market price for transit of Russian gas through Ukraine to Europe and, accordingly, Naftogaz Ukrainy will receive billions of dollars in revenue," said Ms Tymoshenko. ...Prior to Ms Tymoshenko’s meeting with Mr Putin, Ukraine’s President Viktor Yushchenko wrote an open letter to Russia’s President Dmitry Medvedev, asking for the terms of the January gas contract be reopened. ...Mr Putin reserved some harsh criticism for Mr Yushchenko, calling his antagonistic stance towards the Kremlin, and criticism of Ms Tymoshenko's energy policies, as things "I don't really understand." During a televised press conference he said that we was "comfortable" with Ms Tymoshenko and that he "always could come to an agreement" with her, even though "she is a tough negotiator."

Ukraine deal eases gas disruption fears

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-20T12:22:02-05:00

Published by FT By Roman Olearchyk Vladimir Putin, Russian prime minister, has agreed to waive sanctions against Ukraine and amend Russia’s natural gas contract with the country, in a move that could ease fears of a disruption to European gas supplies this winter. After late night talks held at the Crimean resort town of Yalta with Yulia Tymoshenko, his Ukrainian counterpart, the Russian premier reassured Europe that a repeat of last January’s gas dispute between Kiev and Moscow would be avoided. Read the full article at FT.com

Yulia Tymoshenko meeting with heads of CIS delegations

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-20T12:12:46-05:00

The project contains measures that are global in scale in terms of policy and aims to expand the use of national currencies of the Commonwealth in transactions with each other, removing barriers in trade and to coordinate efforts in protecting the domestic markets of the CIS countries. These series of propositions are connected to ensuring a higher level of transparency and openness in financial-economic activities by way of exchanging information on price regulation and the state of competition in socially important and infrastructural goods markets. ...In addition to this, the heads of the CIS countries will consider a Cooperation Convention in the energy sector and the Immediate Measures Plan for its implementation. The Conception project consists of pre-defined and agreed upon views and approaches of CIS countries with regard to cooperation in the energy sector and puts forth a goal, main tasks and principles as well mechanisms and priorities for cooperation among CIS countries in the fuel and power complex, energy integration and the oil and gas sectors. The Summit’s agenda also will consider a CIS Cooperation Agreement in the sphere of exploiting inter-governmental lines of electrical transmission of national electrical energy systems, which foresees the determination of conditions and legal framework for the dependable and effective use of inter-governmental lines of electrical transmission. The CIS heads of government in addition to this will consider the International Transportation Corridors Agreement that envisages inter-governmental cooperation in the priority areas of harmonizing rules and regulations for international transportation corridors.

Summit of CIS heads of government

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-20T12:11:06-05:00

These series of propositions are connected to ensuring a higher level of transparency and openness in financial-economic activities by way of exchanging information on price regulation and the state of competition in socially important and infrastructural goods markets. ...In addition to this, the heads of the CIS countries will consider a Cooperation Convention in the energy sector and the Immediate Measures Plan for its implementation. The Conception project consists of pre-defined and agreed upon views and approaches of CIS countries with regard to cooperation in the energy sector and puts forth a goal, main tasks and principles as well mechanisms and priorities for cooperation among CIS countries in the fuel and power complex, energy integration and the oil and gas sectors. The Summit’s agenda also will consider a CIS Cooperation Agreement in the sphere of exploiting inter-governmental lines of electrical transmission of national electrical energy systems, which foresees the determination of conditions and legal framework for the dependable and effective use of inter-governmental lines of electrical transmission. The CIS heads of government in addition to this will consider the International Transportation Corridors Agreement that envisages inter-governmental cooperation in the priority areas of harmonizing rules and regulations for international transportation corridors. Also, the agreement should develop the securing of resources for ensuring information and logistical support of transportation corridors.

IMF Has Not Abandoned Ukraine

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-19T10:20:03-05:00

The path out of the recession was made harder when President Viktor Yushchenko refused to use his power of veto and signed into law huge rises in the minimum wage and pensions. The budget busting move, which Fitch estimates could result in an 11 percent budget deficit in 2009, contravened IMF conditions to reign in public spending and an agreed deficit for the year of 6 percent of GDP. ...The President of the Centre for Social Studies, Andrey Yermolayev doubts Ukraine’s politicians will reach a consensus before next year’s presidential elections, which are slated for 17 January, 2010. ...Pressure will be put on the government to urge the National Bank of Ukraine to print money to pay for the wage and pension rises, but this would only weaken the country further by causing inflation. ..."We are taking extraordinary efforts to pay for natural gas, including for November, on time, without delay and in full," said Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko. Mr Nemyria also pointed out that Ukraine has put into store 25 billion cubic metres of natural gas, which should ensure the uninterrupted flow of gas supplies to Europe.

Ukrainian vice premier: Ukraine could join Energy Community on Dec. 18

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-18T12:04:30-05:00

He said that talks on Ukraine's accession to the Energy Community had finished on Oct. 7. "We hope, and there are all grounds [to hope], that a positive decision on Ukraine's accession to this treaty will be taken at the ministerial council meeting," Nemyria said.

Gas issues will not be on the agenda for Ukraine and Russia

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-18T11:50:05-05:00

She stressed that Ukraine and Russia have regulated all gas issues for 10 years ahead, including price setting and all issues regarding transit. "In addition, we have settled all issues regarding payment for gas. For the first time in 18 years, Ukraine has paid for all the gas on time. And we will continue to do so," the Prime Minister added. "That's why if issues concerning gas are left out because they've all been settled, then we have a strategy for the further development of our relations, including from the point of view of our national interests, and confirming our energy independence and energy self-sufficiency. And that's precisely the direction in which we will conduct our negotiations," Yulia Tymoshenko said regarding the agenda for her meeting tomorrow with Russian colleague Vladimir Putin.

Ukraine demonstrating stable trend of economic recovery

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-18T11:36:54-05:00

Moreover, according to her, as per results of the third quarter, Ukraine has made it to the group of countries where the economic decline is slowing every quarter. "There are few countries in the world like this, but we are among them," Yulia Tymoshenko added. According to her, industrial production is growing, particularly if one compares results of September and October of the current year - volume of industrial production increased 5%. The food industry is showing 15.7% quarterly growth, light industry - 1.1%, metallurgy – 3.7%, chemical industry – 3.5%, machine building – 2%. The Prime Minister underscored that "Agriculture is a key industry. It was growing through the crisis and continues to do so - this is a good signal that in the nearest future the economy will be functioning in a perfectly normal mode."

Ukraine will welcome in the New Year without gas conflicts

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-16T13:49:31-05:00

"During the difficult times of the gas conflict at the start of the year, we developed an agreement that defines a formula approach to the price formation for gas, and this is the first year when we do not have such rush, such stress, that the year is coming to an end and we need to come to an agreement with Gazprom somehow again, we need to do something, but it is unknown what prices would be offered to us. We have entered into the system where gas price formation, as well as transit price formation is pegged to a formula, therefore we are not only expecting an end to 2009 without any worries, but we are also very optimistic about the future – the next year," the First Vice Prime Minister said. ...There will be no crisis over the the supply of Russian gas to Ukraine in the beginning of 2010, she claims. "We – Ukraine and Russia – for the first time will celebrate the New Year and Christmas of 2009/2010 in absolute tranquility. Everyone will be at home, I for sure will not be at the airport, or in Russia at Gazprom," Yulia Tymoshenko assures. The Ukrainian-Russian agreement on gas supply, which was signed in 2009 for 10 years, will help to avert a gas crisis, the Prime Minister added.

Ukraine is fulfilling its obligations to the IMF

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-16T13:49:36-05:00

"We clearly explained the position of the Cabinet of Ministers that increasing the cost of gas and utilities doesn't mean that the balance of the budget or Naftohaz will improve, because this will only lead to a lack of finances among the population and result in non-payment," Oleksandr Turchynov explained. He added that the government did everything to ensure transparent privatization of the Odesa Port Plant, as envisaged in the Memorandum of Cooperation with the IMF. "The government did everything to ensure this process, but the President vetoed the Cabinet of Ministers decision once large foreign companies had joined the tender process, then they used the judicial branch so that the tender didn't take place," Oleksandr Turchynov noted. Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko sees continued cooperation with the IMF as Ukraine's main ant-crisis program. "We believe that continuing cooperation with the IMF is necessary to make it through to the end of the presidential campaign. This is a political stage for stabilizing the political situation in Ukraine and for overcoming the financial and economic crisis," she said.

Ukraine - Yulia Tymoshenko will start 2010 calmly

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-12T05:26:25-05:00

“Together with International Monetary Fund representatives, we worked out ways to execute the 2010 budget in order to first, not break Ukraine’s law, and second, keep the financial balance sheet level to ensure the country’s lifeline. And exactly on the basis of our joint work, a government resolution was passed which is in accordance with the budget code for 2010 financing up to the moment of passing the 2010 budget," she said. The Prime Minister is certain that Ukraine is ready to calmly begin the year 2010, irrespective of all the political opposition she is facing. At the same time, Yulia Tymoshenko has been looking at future cooperation with the IMF as the main anti-crisis program of Ukraine. We consider continued cooperation between Ukraine and the IMF as essential for completing the presidential election campaign, as a certain political step to stabilizing the political situation of Ukraine as well as overcoming the financial and economic crisis. ...In addition, Yulia Tymoshenko noted that continued cooperation with the IMF is a precondition to receiving assistance from the European Commission in order to maintain macro-financial stability in Ukraine.

Cooperation with the IMF - Ukraine’s main anti-crisis program

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-11T16:01:57-05:00

She also noted that continued cooperation with the IMF is a precondition for receiving assistance from the European Commission to maintain Ukraine’s macro-financial stability. On November 30 the International Monetary Fund’s board of directors will make a decision on whether to grant Ukraine the next tranche. ...On one hand we are reviewing the loan program and on the other we are conciliating the text of the letter of intentions. The planned meeting with the IMF is set for November 30," acting Finance Minister Ihor Umansky said today. On November 10, Vice Prime Minister for European Integration Hryhoriy Nemyria announced that "government is interested in receiving the IMF tranche as soon as possible". "If we reach a compromise inside of the country and reach a consolidated position with the IMF then within two weeks their board of directors will meet.

Ukraine will fulfill all its “gas” obligations

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-11T15:55:03-05:00

The head of government noted that Ukraine has adjusted the volumes of gas supplied to Ukraine "and today we have Russia’s firm position that they will not impose financial sanctions for this." An agreement has already been reached for 2010 "concerning that volumes of gas that Ukraine needs," Yulia Tymoshenko added. "We can guarantee that if the situation continues in this way, Ukraine under no circumstances will violate its obligations to the European Union, for the transit of gas as per the terms of our contracts, or to Russia, in terms of payment for natural gas consumed by Ukraine," the Prime Minister concluded.

Cabinet of Ministers and IMF agree on financing principles for 2010

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-11T14:52:58-05:00

"Together with the International Monetary Fund representatives, worked out ways to execute the 2010 budget in order to first, not break Ukraine’s law, and second, keep the financial balance sheet level to ensure the country’s lifeline. And exactly on the basis of our joint work a government resolution was passed which is in accordance with the budget code for 2010 financing up to the moment of passing the 2010 budget," announced Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko today at a meeting with the ambassadors of the G8 countries, European Union countries and representatives of the European Commission to Ukraine. "At the moment this resolution is approved, it is supported by the IMF, and frankly speaking, we are prepared in spite of all the political opposition, to calmly begin the year 2010,” said the head of government. ...As is generally known, the IMF board of directors will meet on November 30 to decide whether to issue Ukraine the next tranche. ...In his turn, Vice Prime Minister for European Integration Hryhoriy Nemyria announced that “government is interested in receiving the IMF tranche as soon as possible”. "If we reach a compromise inside of the country and reach a consolidated position with the IMF then within two weeks their board of directors will meet.

PM Closing Gap on Yanukovych in Polls

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-11T14:33:16-05:00

“Yatseniuk was the first out of the traps,” said Dr Taras Kuzio, Adjunct Professor of Eurasian and Russian Studies at Carleton University and Editor of Ukrainian Analyst, “but his campaign was poorly received, was taken over by Russian spin doctors, and support for him plateaued during the summer and has since declined.” Quoted in the English-language weekly, Kyiv Post, the political consultant Taras Berezovets, said, “If Yatseniuk wants to make further progress as a politician, he has to transform his current ratings to real results… otherwise voters will soon forget about him.” ...The poll reveals that the share of the vote is polarising around the two main candidates – Mr Yanukovych and Ms Tymoshenko – who have both increased their share since the summer. ... Whereas in August she was neck and neck with Mr Yatseniuk – with both candidates tying on 11.1 percent – in September her share of the poll grew to 14.2 percent before receiving an additional 3.7 points in October to bring it up to 17.9 percent. ...According to Volydymyr Fesenko, chairman of the Penta Centre for Applied Political Research, “Yanukovych will not be a puppet of Moscow, but the degree of influence of Moscow on Yanukovych will be greater than that on Tymoshenko.” Yet in the case of Ms Tymoshenko, she has already proved herself to be a practical and reliable partner to Russia – a refreshing alternative to President Yushchenko and someone Prime Minister Vladimir Putin can do business with.

Ukraine to convert IMF cash to pay for Russian gas

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-10T09:46:07-05:00

"As for (payment for) next month -- there are funds thanks to thespecial drawing rights that we received. The next conversion should happen already this week," Nemyrya told news channel 5 Kanal. The special drawing rightsfunds are not linked to the IMF's $16.4 billion bailout for Ukraine, which has been suspended after parliament increased the minimum wage, placing a strain on the budget. The Fund had been due to release $3.8 billion but has said it will not until the wage increases are overturned. The government - opposed to the increases - has said they would cost an additional $10 billion to fund by the end of next year - more than last year's entire gas bill.

Statement by IMF managing director wrongly interpreted, says Nemyria

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-10T09:35:35-05:00

Nemyria also said that if Ukraine continues its cooperation with the IMF, the European Commission would provide macro-financial assistance to the country. He said that the European Commission is considering plans on investing EUR 610 million in the Ukrainian economy and that a main condition for this should be the continuation of cooperation between Ukraine and the IMF. Media reported earlier that Strauss-Kahn told the Reuters news agency that the IMF would continue cooperation with Ukraine only after presidential elections. At the same time, the IMF headquarters in Washington told Ukrainian journalists on Monday that Strauss-Kahn had expressed the IMF's readiness to continue cooperation with Ukraine “as soon as the country's leadership reaches consensus on this issue.”

Europe to provide Ukraine with 610 million euros to support macro-financial stability

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-10T09:32:44-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua Ukraine is holding talks with the European Commission for the latter to provide 610 million euros to support macro-financial stability in the country. "We expect these funds to be allocated in late 2009/early 2010," Vice Prime Minister Hryhoriy Nemyria said today during a press conference. He clarified that these funds will come in two tranches. "The allocation of 110 million euros has already been approved and the only condition is that Ukraine continues to cooperate with the IMF. The second tranche - 500 million euros must be approved by the European Parliament," Hryhoriy Nemyria announced.

Tymoshenko: Naftogaz Has Paid Oct Gas Bill

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-06T07:54:50-05:00

Source Interfax Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko said Friday Naftogaz paid its gas bill to Russia's OAO Gazprom (GAZP.RS) for October's gas deliveries. "We paid Russia$500 million today," Tymoshenko is quoted as saying. Ukrainian national gas company Naftogaz said Thursday it has completed the restructuring of its $1.6 billion in external debt.

Tymoshenko and Putin discuss ways to combat flu

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-06T07:53:21-05:00

Tymoshenko.ua Ukraine will purchase 200,000 packages of the anti-virus medicine Arbidol as well as flu vaccine from the Russian Federation. Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin reached this agreement during a phone conversation. In addition, the heads of the Ukrainian and Russian governments agreed to cooperate in identifying flu strains and carry out joint research in this field. The Russian Prime Minister promised to supply the medicines as soon as possible.

Ukraine will fully pay for October gas on time

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-04T12:12:04-05:00

The Minister assured that Gazprom will not demand fines from Ukraine for purchasing lower volumes of gas that what’s specified in the contract. "We have agreements with Gazprom and they are being fully implemented. They will not be imposing any sanctions. There are objective factors showing that these agreements are active and I’m confident that they will continue to be fulfilled in the future," Yuriy Prodan concluded.

Yulia Tymoshenko will discuss flu fighting measures with the regions

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-04T12:09:36-05:00

The Prime Minister also held a meeting on diagnosis and treatment of patients, and prevention of the spread of flu and actute respiratory viral infections. In total, Ukraine has allocated 1.5 billion UAH to fight the epidemic. The first 500 million was allocated during an extraordinary session of the Cabinet of Ministers, and yesterday, November 3, the Verkhovna Rada approved allocating 1 billion UAH.

Government working to reduce long lines at hospitals

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-04T12:04:36-05:00

The Prime Minister believes that the regional leaders and Ministry of Health can enlist students studying in their final year of medical school to increase staff at hospitals and polyclinics. "If today we have a deficit of doctors, I would ask that you look into the possibility of setting up special mobile units for doctors and involving students in their final year of medical school," the head of government told the regional governors.

IMF warns Ukraine on aid

iBYuT.com — 2009-11-02T09:38:35-05:00

Published in Financial Times By Roman Olearchyk in Kiev The International Monetary Fund has warned that it could cut financial assistance to Ukraine, one of the world’s most recession hit economies, after the country veered “off track” by adopting populist wage and pension increases. The warning came after Viktor Yushchenko, Ukraine’s president, on Friday signed the increases into law, ignoring warnings from the IMF and Yulia Tymoshenko, his prime minister and bitter rival. The standoff is rooted in a rivalry between Ukraine’s political leaders ahead of a hotly contested presidential election to be held in January. Read the full article at Financial Times

Tymoshenko sure Ukraine will join European Union

iBYuT.com — 2009-10-31T01:01:48-04:00

“Ukraine’s relations with all countries will be pragmatically built on the basis of national interests, and a significant increase in the country’s competitiveness at the global arena will be a priority,” Tymoshenko said. “Friendly relations with Russia and other CIS countries will be based on the potential of current cooperation and mutually beneficial economic cooperation,” reads the program. Tymoshenko said that if she wins presidential elections, the question of Ukraine’s joining any system of collective security would “be resolved only at a referendum.” The Batkivschyna Party, which nominated Tymoshenko for president, is an observer member of the European People’s Party.

Tymoshenko formally registers as presidential candidate

iBYuT.com — 2009-10-31T01:05:22-04:00

The Central Election Commission has established that the application submitted by Yulia Tymoshenko and the package of other documents required to register her as the presidential candidate are formalized in compliance with the requirements of the Ukrainian legislation. The Central Election Commission has also registered Parliamentary Deputy Volodymyr Pylypenko from the faction of the Bloc of Yulia Tymoshenko as Tymoshenko's representative at the Central Election Commission. On registration, Yulia Tymoshenko received the certificate of the presidential candidate. As Ukrainian News earlier reported, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko on October 28 asked the Central Election Commission register her as a presidential candidate and submitted her application for registration and a package of other required documents. On October 24, the congress of the Batkivschyna Party nominated Yulia Tymoshenko, who leads the party, for presidential candidate. ...The Verkhovna Rada has set the first tour of the presidential elections for 17 January 2010.

Confirmed as Presidential Candidate

iBYuT.com — 2009-10-27T00:38:54-04:00

One of these singers, Ruslana, won the 2004 Eurovision Song Contest and, after an initial reluctance voiced by many rock singers to not become involved in politics during the Orange Revolution, joined Viktor Yushchenko’s election campaign and camped outside with the Orange Revolution protestors. ...BYuT deputy Serhiy Mishchenko said that the main point is that, “At a time when other parties hold their congresses in closed premises that bar the entrance of citizens we decided to opt for a format where everybody who wishes to do so can come and support the promotion of our candidate.” ...Ms Tymoshenko announced for the first time her support for open lists for elections to parliament – an initiative that will provide greater transparency in the process of choosing party candidates and offer greater choice for voters. ...She was re-elected in 1998 and a year later she established her own party – Batkivshchyna – which she still leads and which has become the lynch pin of her eponymous bloc, now one of Ukraine’s largest and best organised factions. ...Over the course of three elections, between 2002-2007, BYuT has increased its share of the vote by nearly 4.5 times and established support in Russian-speaking Eastern and Southern Ukraine. ...The promotion of her candidacy on the Maidan is testimony to her being the only political leader who, having stood there five years ago, can still claim to have not betrayed the ideals of the Orange Revolution.

Tymoshenko enters presidential race

iBYuT.com — 2009-10-24T22:17:23-04:00

Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko has today been nominated by her party to compete in the presidential elections on 17 January 2010. First Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine Oleksandr Turchynov declared the party's unanomous decision to thousands of cheering supporters in Independence Square, Kyiv.

Tymoshenko Draws on Faith Ahead of Campaign

iBYuT.com — 2009-10-23T10:49:36-04:00

"I, as an Orthodox, want to see all the holy sites of great importance for Orthodox believers, before a hard trial begins – the presidential elections and, most important, the restoration of order in the country after the presidential elections," said Ms Tymoshenko before departing for the Holy Land. ...While in Italy, Ms Tymoshenko met with members of the Ukrainian diaspora and told them of her commitment to “deep and real reforms.” Speaking to those assembled, she said, “Ukraine is firm in strengthening its independence and sovereignty and in the choice of its European path.” To keep Ukraine on its European trajectory, Ms Tymoshenko will have to succeed in the presidential elections set for 17 January 2010. ... It knows only too well that Mr Yanukovych is unlikely to muster more than 50 percent of the votes needed to win in the first round. In a second round run off, if the former orange camp unites around Ms Tymoshenko, she stands a good chance of becoming Ukraine’s first female president.

Economic Development Forum

iBYuT.com — 2009-10-13T16:33:01-04:00

The first annual international "Economic Development of Ukraine" forum will be held in the Knight Conference Center of the internationally-acclaimed Newseum on 15 October 2009. The event will focus on Ukraine's economic recovery in the face of the recent global liquidity crisis. In attendance will be a Ukrainian delegation, including Vice Prime Minister for European Integration Hryhoriy Nemyria and Minister of Economy Bohdan Danylyshyn. The Forum's main event will be a live video link between the Newseum and the World Bank studio in Kyiv, featuring the Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko and a panel of experts from the World Bank, IMF and EBRD. For more information please visit the event website here.

Ukraine Pays Gas Bill and Plans Cuts in 2010

iBYuT.com — 2009-10-12T09:20:24-04:00

Speaking at the world natural gas congress in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Gazprom’s CEO Alexei Miller said that Gazprom would not cut natural gas supplies to Ukraine in 2010 and that there will be no revision of the terms of the original contract. ...When Prime Minister Tymoshenko met with her Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, in Sopot, Poland last month, the two leaders agreed that Ukraine would only pay for natural gas that it consumed in 2009. The Russian leader said at the time “that the current global financial crisis… must be taken into account in our bills and supplies… We understand that the Ukrainian economy uses only that which it needs today." ...It is expected that in 2010 Ukraine will import 27-33 billion cubic metres of natural gas from Russia, which is less than the minimum 42 billion cubic meters it contracted to import. ...Demand for gas in Ukraine has dropped due to the global economic crisis, increased energy efficiency, the stepping up of domestic gas production and greater use of alternative energies. ...According to Vadym Chuprun the deputy head of Naftohaz, falling demand for gas across Europe means that extra gas pipeline capacity planned for Europe, in the form of multi-billion dollar plans for new infrastructure projects, is not actually needed.

Nemyria: Financial and economic crisis has passed its peak

iBYuT.com — 2009-10-04T08:47:04-04:00

At the same time, Nemyria stressed that the crisis enabled the Ukrainian economy to learn several fundamental lessons. According to him, the first lesson is that it is necessary to support a realistic currency exchange rate and the importance of holding back inflation. ...According to him, the second lesson is that it is necessary to implement structural reforms and the third lesson is that it is necessary to further develop the process of European integration. "At a time of crisis, we need more Europe in Ukraine," Nemyria said, adding that Ukraine needed financial support from the European Union. ...In particular, he said Ukraine was holding talks on creation of a free trade zone with the European Union, talks on joining the European energy community, and talks in the transport industry and other industries. ...As Ukrainian News earlier reported, Nemyria is scheduled to meet with the International Monetary Fund's Managing Director Dominique Strauss-Kahn, the World Bank's President Robert Zoellick, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development's President Tomas Mirow, and the European Investment Bank's President Philippe Maystadt, as well as with Deputy Prime Minister Wouter Bos of the Netherlands and Deputy Prime Minister Ali Babacan of Turkey while attending the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank in Turkey.

Premier Reaffirms Commitment to Europe and Friendly Relations with Russia

iBYuT.com — 2009-09-29T14:07:20-04:00

“A bad tradition to ask questions still exists: are you with mother or with father, are you with east or with west, are you with western countries or with Russia? ...While holding out an olive branch to Russia, Ms Tymoshenko took the opportunity to apologise to EU states for the “temporary discomfort” caused by last January’s gas dispute. ...In discussing Ukraine’s “choice for Europe,” Ms Tymoshenko hoped that the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, offered in Paris in September 2008, will be signed before next year’s presidential elections slated for 17 January. While this may be a tall order given the impact of the global downturn on the pace of legislative reforms, Ms Tymoshenko nevertheless suggested, “It will be a strong consolidating factor for pro-European politicians in Ukraine.” ...The gathering, billed by the organisers as “the largest informal forum on strategic relations on Ukraine and the world,” attracted the top three candidates in the forthcoming presidential election, together with policy-makers, business leaders and public leaders. ... Key areas for debate included the global downturn, the future of Ukraine’s economy, Ukraine and the EU, energy security, Ukrainian-Russian relations and the impact of China on the development of the global economy.

Odesa Portside Plant Will be Privatised

iBYuT.com — 2009-09-24T10:45:36-04:00

The fear was that the repayment programme would increase Ms Tymoshenko’s popularity ahead of the 2010 presidential election – something which had to be avoided at all costs. ...Party of Regions leader Viktor Yanukovych said openly what Mr Yushchenko believes: “These steps taken by the government to sell off state property ahead of elections is evidence of corruption and also an attempt to obtain additional finances for the candidate’s campaign from the authorities.” ...This institution, long under the control of Socialist Valentyna Semeniuk and loyal to the president, dropped its opposition to the plant’s privatisation and launched an open tender on 15 July to sell 99.56 percent of the state’s shares. ...The process has been going on for half a year and it could have been halted up to its start but not a week before the auction,” said Mr Turchynov. ...In a 30 November 2006 letter to Prime Minister Yanukovych, reprinted in Ukrayinska Pravda (18 September), President Yushchenko complained about the slow pace of privatisation, pointing out that only 111 out of 518 objects slated for privatisation had actually been auctioned. President Yushchenko complained that the Yanukovych government was blocking the privatisations of, amongst others, UkrTelekom and the Odesa Portside Plant “regardless of the fact this is harming their effectiveness and attractiveness for investors.”

BYuT Confirmed Most Conscientious Force in Parliament

iBYuT.com — 2009-09-24T10:41:49-04:00

Of note was OU-PSD’s intensive work on the rule of law and tackling corruption issues, including efforts to establish a National Bureau to battle corruption modelled on the US Department of Justice’s Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). ...Although the Party of Regions boasts parliament’s largest faction (with 173 deputies), its draft legislative attempts only reflected ten percent of its election campaign pledges and party programme. ...Also, BYuT was the most successful in ensuring parliament adopted its draft legislation (14 laws) with the Party of Regions trailing behind with only 8 laws adopted. ...If the Lytvyn bloc – which joined the revived democratic parliamentary majority in December 2008 – draft legislation is added to this total, the pro-Tymoshenko ruling coalition would have prepared 566 drafts, or nearly double that of the combined opposition. ...Ms Lesia Shevchenko, concluded that the best of all (the factions) that worked towards fulfilling their programmes were the pro-coalition factions in the (parliamentary) majority – BYuT and OU-PSD. Their success could have been greater if the president and opposition Party of Regions had not followed a policy of “the worse the better” for Ukraine, seeking to undermine rather than assist the Tymoshenko government’s policies to extricate Ukraine from the global crisis.

Irregular Goings On at the Central Bank

iBYuT.com — 2009-09-14T10:17:24-04:00

In December last year, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko complained about NBU officials engaging in currency speculation and staging the collapse of the national currency, the hryvnia, to benefit businessmen linked to the president’s staff (see Inform issue 98, 5 January 2009). In the last four months of 2008 the hrvynia lost half its value against the dollar, at one time slumping to UAH 10 to the dollar from UAH 4.9 to the dollar in September 2008. ...Tim Ash, the respected Head of Research for CEEMA at the Royal Bank of Scotland, wrote in a research note, “In particular, it seems as though he has been unhappy that NBU support for the banking sector has led to liquidity simply being used to short the hryvnia, further complicating the NBU's management of exchange rate policy. ...Last month, a British businessman based in Kyiv told Inform, “There is no reason behind the fluctuation of the hryvnia other than it being down to speculation by a corrupt few.” Interior Minister Yuriy Lutsenko would appear to agree with him and said in a statement that he suspected NBU officials of “plundering hundreds of millions of hryvnia,” which caused a fall in the currency. ...“If the public don’t have any certainty as to what the policies will be and the implications for inflation, then people may elect to go into foreign currency,” said Ms Pazarbasioglu.

Yulia Tymoshenko confirms she plans to run for president

iBYuT.com — 2009-09-14T10:16:16-04:00

Published in RBC-Ukraine Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko plans to run for president in 2009, she said during today’s meeting of the National Trilateral Social and Economic Council. She also said that the increase in social standards in 2010 will be very moderate due to the global financial and economic crisis. “Our main priority has to be rejuvenating the economy. But as a candidate for president, increasing social standards is very important,” Tymoshenko said.

Ukraine and Russia Normalise Gas Relations

iBYuT.com — 2009-09-08T11:32:39-04:00

Under the terms of the January gas deal cemented by Prime Minister Tymoshenko and her Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, Gazprom has the right to impose penalties on Naftohaz for importing less than the volume contracted. ...Meeting with Ms Tymoshenko last week in the Polish town of Sopot, Mr Putin agreed to waive any penalties, saying that the two leaders "agreed that the current global financial crisis… must be taken into account in our bills and supplies." ...Clearly pleased with her meeting with Mr Putin and the normalisation of gas relations with Russia, Ms Tymoshenko said, "We feel that all the crisis-inducing occurrences in this sphere have gone." ..."All the licenses which were unlawfully issued to Viktor Yanukovych's people – these are deposits with a billion cubic metres of gas and wells with a million tonnes of oil – will be transferred to Naftohaz," said Prime Minister Tymoshenko. ...Last week Naftohaz announced that it had appointed Credit Suisse to restructure its $1.6 billion debt, including its $500 million Eurobond, which matures at the end of this month. A statement from the company said that it “considers that in the light of tough market conditions and structural difficulties in the domestic and international gas market, the extension of the maturity of the Eurobond is one of a number of measures the company is considering to best manage its financial situation.”

Tymoshenko discusses Euro 2012 preparations with Tusk

iBYuT.com — 2009-09-02T15:01:37-04:00

Tusk thanked Tymoshenko for participating in events dedicated to the 70th anniversary of the beginning of World War II. Ukrainian Vice Premier Hryhoriy Nemyria and Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski also participated in the meeting. Tymoshenko also had brief meetings with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and President of the European Parliament Jerzy Buzek, the press service said.

Yulia Tymoshenko: 2010 State Budget is a “consolidated anti-crisis document”

iBYuT.com — 2009-08-31T10:47:10-04:00

The premier said that the draft budget takes into account all reforms concerning the transfer of funds to local communities. The draft budget for 2010 will be submitted to the Verkhovna Rada on September 15. “There will be no delays or problems…We believe that there are all grounds for the Verkhovna Rada to review this budget and approve it,” Tymoshenko said.

Tymoshenko says she has reached agreement with Putin on gas payments

iBYuT.com — 2009-09-01T10:47:15-04:00

Putin recalled that Russia understands that "the Ukrainian economy now consumes as much energy resources as it needs." ...The details will be discussed by the economic entities, Putin said. "We believe it would be wrong to limit ourselves to energy issues. We will prepare a meeting of the economic committee,' he said, recalling that Tymoshenko invited the Russian delegation to visit Kharkiv in October. "By this time we will prepare and will speak about diversifying our relations in many areas. The level of cooperation between Russian and Ukrainian enterprises is often such that these enterprises cannot work without each other, and that is also true for the aircraft industry," Putin said.

Ukraine’s Economy Shows Signs of Recovery

iBYuT.com — 2009-08-25T08:43:46-04:00

When comparing the second quarter GDP with the first quarter at an annualised rate, China’s GDP grew by 15 percent, South Korea by nearly 10 percent, Singapore by a staggering 21 percent and Indonesia by 5 percent. ...This sense of a modest recovery has given analysts some cause for optimism that Ukraine’s economy will grow next year by up to the 3 percent. Bohdan Danylyshyn, Minister for the Economy, said, "Given that Ukraine's industry is highly integrated into global markets ...improvements in the industrial sectors of EU countries will stimulate demand for Ukrainian goods in the short term." ...In order to comply with IMF conditions, the Cabinet of Ministers bypassed parliament by passing Cabinet resolutions to secure a $3.3 billion tranche payment from the $16.4 billion stand-by facility agreed with the IMF last October. ...Despite indications of a possible recovery, Ukraine’s economy has taken a battering and the IMF predicts that this year Ukraine’s GDP contraction will be 14 percent. The World Bank believes growth next year with be 1 percent, while the government considers the recovery could be stronger with growth in 2010 of 3 percent, rising to 5 percent in the coming years.

Premier Seeks to Defuse Russia-Ukraine Spat

iBYuT.com — 2009-08-21T11:38:23-04:00

The spat between the two presidents followed last week’s open letter from Mr Medvedev in which he accused Ukraine’s leaders of pursuing anti-Russian policies. In particular Mr Medvedev accused Ukraine of illegally arming Georgia in its war against Russia last year, pursuing NATO membership while "ignoring the opinion of your country's citizens" and for risking gas supplies to Europe through two gas disputes. ...President Yushchenko took a more measured response to Mr Medvedev’s letter, saying that he was very disappointed with the “unfriendly nature” of the Russian president’s address. After refuting points in the letter, he concluded: "I believe in a good future for Ukraine-Russia relations based on deep traditions of friendship and neighbourhood between the people of our countries.” Ms Tymoshenko said, "As prime minister, I have always done my best to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation between Ukraine and Russia, first and foremost, in the economic sector controlled by the government. ...The premier said that she has striven for and will build “equal relations with Russia based on national interests, mutual benefit, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

Tymoshenko asks IMF to send working group to Ukraine

iBYuT.com — 2009-08-19T12:25:05-04:00

Tymoshenko also said that the budget for 2010 will be drafted and submitted to the Verkhovna Rada according to the deadlines set by the Budget Code. “There won’t be a day’s delay,” she said. According to the premier, the 2010 budget is being drafted according to schedule and macroeconomic forecasts, including budget deficit figures, coordinated with the IMF.

Yulia Tymoshenko and Volodymyr Putin Talked on the phone

iBYuT.com — 2009-08-19T12:19:07-04:00

The Heads of Government of Ukraine and the Russian Federation highly estimated implementation of the Gas Agreement by the two sides. During the telephone talk the interlocutors also agreed on holding on September 1 of the current year a bipartite meeting of the Prime Ministers of Ukraine and Russia in Poland where Yulia Tymoshenko and Volodymyr Putin would stay on invitation of the Prime Minister of Poland Donald Tusk. The Head of Ukrainian Government Yulia Tymoshenko congratulated her counterpart Volodymyr Putin on successful holding of Aircraft Salon MAX-2009. Both sides positively evaluated signing of Protocol between Ukraine and Russia on start of serial production of An-70 aircrafts which took place during this event. The conversation of the leaders of Governments of Ukraine and Russia was friendly and constructive.

Yulia Tymoshenko: Ukrainian economy remains attractive for investment

iBYuT.com — 2009-08-19T12:17:23-04:00

RBC-Ukraine and CMU Press Service The Ukrainian economy remains attractive for investment, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko said during her opening remarks at today’s government meeting. According to data, direct foreign investments in the second quarter of 2009 exceeded $1.5 billion. “This is a sign that the economy is picking up and we are gradually recovering from the crisis. This means that Ukraine is attractive for investors. This is very important,” the premier said.

Ukraine Pays Debts on Time

iBYuT.com — 2009-08-13T10:27:44-04:00

Naftohaz spokesman Valentyn Zemlyanskyi said that the Ukrainian state gas company intends to purchase 3 billion cubic meters of gas a month in the third quarter. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the World Bank and the European Investment Bank said that they may lend the government a total of $1.7 billion. This would increase the security of gas supplies from Russia to Europe pumped via Ukraine’s vast gas transportation system – the second largest in Europe. ...The European Commission President José Manuel Barroso, was quoted in the Financial Times as saying, “I’m extremely pleased that political agreement has been reached with Ukraine on reform of its gas sector which opens the way for a financial assistance package to be provided by the international financial institutions to Ukraine.” ..."We are now in a situation of cutting down Ukraine's external debts and we will continue to systematically reduce debts as Ukraine comes out of the crisis," said Ms Tymoshenko. ..."The positive outlook reflects the improved economic prospects for Ukraine, primarily due to the level and flexibility of bilateral and multilateral support for the country," said S&P credit analyst Franklin Gill.

Tymoshenko: Ukraine pays in full for July Russian gas

iBYuT.com — 2009-08-05T11:10:16-04:00

Published by Kyiv Post Ukraine has paid $605 million for Russian gas supplied in July, Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko has said. "The government has paid for gas pumped into storage facilities today, before the deadline. We've transferred $605 million and have paid in full for gas originating in Russia," she said at a press conference in Kyiv on Wednesday.

Ukraine deputy PM: 'We chose a realistic path to EU integration'

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-31T17:53:22-04:00

Ukraine is making steady progress towards EU membership, but is aware of the difficulties which lie ahead amid an unfavourable global economic context, Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Hryhoriy Nemyria, responsible for European integration, told EurActiv in an exclusive interview. The EU and Ukraine are preparing an association agreement which notably includes a free trade deal. What is the tentative timetable for this, and what areas could be difficult for Ukraine, justifying special measures like transition periods? The EU-Ukraine Association Agreement is principally a new document with the free trade area as its key element. ...In practice, Ukraine must within a very short time transpose into national legislation a vast body of European norms and rules which have evolved in the EU for years. ...Our negotiating teams currently concentrate on the contents of the Agreement; [and] in particular, [the] transitional periods required for [the] most sensitive sectors of the Ukrainian economy.

Ukraine to receive third tranche of IMF loan

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-29T08:48:25-04:00

She emphasized that the third tranche of the IMF loan allows Ukraine to have a “full financial balance.” The loan is being issued at 4% interest – “it’s the most efficient and cheapest money.” Today the IMF’s Executive Board approved the transfer of the $3.3 billion third tranche of the two-year $16.4 billion stand-by loan for Ukraine. Including the latest amount, Ukraine to date has received a total of $10.9 billion. The agreement between Ukraine and the IMF was approved on 5 November 2008.

Is the Worst Over for Ukraine’s Economy?

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-27T10:39:07-04:00

Speaking at a government session last week, Ms Tymoshenko said, “This means that there is hope that Ukraine has seen the worst of the effects of the global financial crisis on its economy and is starting to slowly revive its economic figures. ...Valeriy Lytvytsky, the head of advisors to the governor of the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) was quoted in the Kyiv Post as saying that economic recovery is a prospect in Q4 of 2009. ...I think in Q3 2009 the fall will considerably slow, and positive changes would reflect on the poorly performing sectors – trade and transport," said Mr Lytvytsky. ...The latter has gone from a $3.4 billion deficit recorded in Q2 2008 to a surplus of $162 million in Q2 2009. ...Indeed, given these trends most analysts suggest that the current account is likely to come in flat in 2009 compared to the $12.9 billion deficit posted for the full year in 2008. ...“No one is saying that a wholesale recovery is taking place,” said Acting Finance Minister Ihor Umansky, “but there are indicators that the economic decline has stopped and that modest improvements are underway.

Ukraine to get over 500 million for development policy

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-23T12:25:47-04:00

Published by NRCU Ukraine is completing proceedings to draw from the World Bank a loan of over USD 500 million for development policy, Deputy Prime Minister Hryhoriy Nemyria says. "I see clear positive dynamics of our relations with the World Bank," he noted. Nemyria emphasized that Ukraine cooperates with the World Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and the European Investment Bank on the program of gas sector modernization.

Ukraine-EU free trade zone talks nearly over

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-23T12:25:50-04:00

Negotiations on the creation of 'an enhanced in-depth free trade zone' between Ukraine and the European Union are coming to an end, Deputy Prime Minister Hryhoriy Nemyria has told a news conference Thursday. He noted that 'this is a very important factor [free trade zone talks], which, I believe, is now taken into account by many investors from the point of view of their presence in Ukraine'. ... Nemyria also believes that this will become one of the crucial points for further integration of Ukraine with the EU, economic first of all. Ukraine and the EU discussed steps to intensify a negotiation process to create a free trade zone. The quality and matter of the instrument is crucial for Ukraine, as well as to what extent the document will take into account the interests of the Ukrainian goods producers and provide a possibility for full, but not 'virtual' access in the EU domestic market. Ukraine and the EU had launched talks on free trade zone on February 18, 2008.

Biden Reassures Kyiv

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-22T12:01:55-04:00

But I assure you and all the Ukrainian people that it will not come at Ukraine's expense. ...The US Vice President backed strongly the right for Ukraine to choose its own allies and expressed support for Ukraine’s accession to NATO. And in what was clearly a reference to Russia exerting its influence in the region, he emphasised that the US does “not recognise any sphere of influence.” ... "We do not recognise anyone else's right to dictate to you or any other country what alliance you will seek to belong to or what relationships, bilateral relationships, you have." ...Following their tête-à-tête there was a meeting between Ukrainian and US delegations led on the Ukrainian side by Deputy Prime Minister Hryhoriy Nemyria. ... “We see new opportunity for bilateral cooperation and – just like the US – we too seek to improve relations with our largest neighbour.

Tymoshenko holds an unplanned tête-à-tête with Biden

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-21T12:21:29-04:00

American officials included National Security Advisor Tony Blinken, Senior Director at the National Security Council David Lipton, National Security Council Director for Russian affairs Michael McFaul, second deputy defence minister of the US for Russia, Ukraine and Eurasia Celeste Wallander, Second Deputy US State Secretary for Asian Affairs Dan Russel, US Security Council Director of Economics and the European Union Christina Quien, Charge d'Affaires of the USA to Ukraine James D.Pettit.

Yulia Tymoshenko: Government will introduce necessary norms directly into 2010 budget law

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-21T12:11:50-04:00

The government will introduce necessary norms that were included in the draft Budget Code vetoed by the president directly into the law on the 2010 budget, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko said today during a briefing. According to Tymoshenko, they will simultaneously hold talks with the Party of Regions on overriding the president’s veto and gaining parliamentary approval for the changes to the Budget Code. ...Everyone understands that the veto is only meant as a means to personally battle me in the elections. I will turn to the Party of Regions and want to believe that at least Viktor Yanukovych and his faction won’t fight with me at the price of local government,” she noted. Today President Viktor Yushchenko vetoed the new version of the Budget Code that was approved by parliament on June 23. The new version included a formula for transferring funds between the state and more than 12,000 municipal budgets.

Ukrainian government to form special group of support to South Korean investors

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-16T12:33:04-04:00

"We will create special mechanisms of cooperation. A special group will be operating under Ukraine's government, which will be promoting your investments into the fields of cooperation with Ukraine," she said. The premier said that the Ukrainian government counts on cooperation in energy sector, in particular in production and transportation of energy, introduction of energy saving technologies and renewable power sources, oil and gas extraction, development of infrastructure and logistics, and cooperation in farming sector. While opening a meeting with heads of industrial groups of Korea, Tymoshenko expressed hope that her visit to the country will facilitate the inflow of Korean investments to Ukraine.

Tymoshenko: If our political force wins the president elections, VR will not be dissolved

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-14T13:29:46-04:00

If her political force wins the presidential elections, a nationwide referendum will be held on the form of government – presidential or parliamentary - in Ukraine, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko announced today during ceremonies marking the 10th anniversary of the Batkivshchyna Party. ...According to Tymoshenko, the Verkhovna Rada will not be dissolved. ... We will build a campaign on true Ukrainian ideals and will prove that we can win. Should our team be victorious…first we must decide what to do with parliament. There are two options: the first is to dissolve parliament and hold new elections and the second is to unite parliament. After the presidential elections we will unite parliament,” Tymoshenko said, adding that the existing VR coalition “will be increased.”

Batkivshchyna Party celebrates its 10th anniversary

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-14T13:29:44-04:00

A convention marking the 10th anniversary of the Batkivshcyna Party is taking place today at the International Exhibition Center in Kyiv. Party leader Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko gave the opening remarks.

Yulia Tymoshenko and Donald Tusk to discuss preparations for Euro-2012 final

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-09T16:54:07-04:00

At the end of the Committee meeting, there will be a signing of bilateral documents including a Protocol between the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and the Government of the Republic of Poland on introducing changes to the Agreement between the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and the Government of the Republic of Poland on cooperation during the organization of the Euro-2012 final from 28 March 2008 and the Protocol from the second meeting of the Ukrainian-Polish Committee for Preparing and Hosting the Euro-2012 Football Championship.

Government approves letter of intent to IMF

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-09T16:54:06-04:00

The prime minister also informed that the government hasn’t asked the IMF to increase the amount of the third tranche: “From the very beginning the amount of the third tranche was going to be $3.2 billion, that’s why no talks are being held on increasing it.” Moreover, Tymoshenko noted that the representatives of the IMF mission currently in Ukraine have decided to not make any public statements prior to the completion of talks and signing of necessary documents: “In my opinion, negotiations between the government, NBU and IMF are moving along successfully and should end just as successfully.” Tymoshenko called on the president to not complicate talks with new obligations for Ukraine: “I would like for the Ukrainian national leadership team to work unanimously and in a coordinated fashion. I am doing everything I can for there to be such coordinated work between the branches of power in Ukraine.” Tymoshenko reminded that the letter should be singed by the prime minister, finance minister, chairman of the National Bank, and at his will, the president. In addition, Tymoshenko informed that the inflation forecast for 2009 was reduced in the letter of intent to the IMF: “The current forecast is for 10-13% inflation.

Yulia Tymoshenko: Ukraine will pay Russian on time for June gas

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-06T17:34:40-04:00

Government Press Service Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko told journalists today that Naftohaz of Ukraine will pay Gazprom on time for gas supplied in June. “I’m always surprised at how Ukrainian politicians force the issue of non-payment for gas: every time, on the 7th of the month, they are hysterically shouting that Ukraine won’t pay for gas…while I am prime minister, Ukraine will pay Russia on time for natural gas. That will be the case this month too. We won’t allow any failure on Ukraine’s part,” Tymoshenko emphasized.

IMF talks moving along constructively

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-06T17:29:54-04:00

She also noted that she will be able to talk about concrete results of cooperation with the IMF once the negotiation process comes to a close. “So far, I don’t see any grounds for alarm. We’re moving along constructively and with mutual understanding, and working on joint documents.” “I want to reassure you and say that no matter how difficult things are during the global financial crisis, and no matter what stresses and challenges we face from this crisis, the government is working stably, including with the IMF and other international financial institutions,” Tymoshenko stressed.

Government seeks World Bank Loan to finance reconstruction of hydroelectric power stations

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-06T17:27:28-04:00

The government committee also approved a draft presidential decree entitled "On a Delegation to Talks with the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development on Conclusion of an Agreement on a Loan (for additional financing of the project for rehabilitation of hydroelectric power stations) between Ukraine and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development" and a draft of the relevant Cabinet of Ministers. The committee will now send the documents to the Cabinet of Ministers for approval, after which the draft presidential decree will be sent to the President of Ukraine for signing. As Ukrainian News earlier reported, the Ukrhidroenerho power generating company's Board Chairman Semen Potashnyk has expressed confidence that agreement will be reached with the World Bank on provision of a loan of about USD 60 million to the company for financing the second stage of reconstruction of the hydroelectric power stations. According to Potashnyk, the second phase of the reconstruction of Ukrhidroenerho's hydroelectric power stations will cost a total of about $500 million.

Brussels Gas Talks Made Progress

iBYuT.com — 2009-07-02T16:22:24-04:00

The meeting in Brussels was designed to find a solution to the funding issue. Russia had earlier ruled out a loan to Ukraine and no mechanism exists for the EU to make a bilateral loan to the country. Participants, including the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, said any assistance package would be contingent on continued reform of Ukraine’s gas sector. Sources close to the European Commission do not expect the matter to be resolved immediately and that it is first necessary to send a technical and financial mission to Ukraine to inspect its gas storage facilities and evaluate financial needs. Only then can a resolution be reached. Nevertheless, the EU’s executive arm said, “The participants made good progress in identifying the keys issues of concern and elements for possible solutions including possible financing arrangements.”

Yuliya Tymoshenko met with IMF Mission Chief in Ukraine Ceyla Pazarbasioglu

iBYuT.com — 2009-06-30T16:32:13-04:00

Published in NRCU ...Tymoshenko and C. Pazarbasioglu discussed the results obtained by an International Monetary Fund technical mission, which visited Ukraine last week. These results will serve as a basis for decisions that will be taken in the coming days. The first stage of work by the IMF technical mission in Ukraine started on June 23. Talks on a second review of the IMF programme with Ukraine under the stand-by arrangement were expected to start on June 30 when Ms Pazarbasioglu will join the fund's mission in Kyiv.

Ukraine can get USD 3.8 b as third tranche from IMF in July

iBYuT.com — 2009-06-26T10:43:55-04:00

It had been agreed during the visit of an IMF mission to Ukraine on June 23 that Ukraine will review its program with the fund, and that in July, it may receive the third tranche of an IMF loan, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko has said during her visit to Lviv. Tymoshenko emphasized that Ukraine will have a chance to increase the amount of funds transferred to the budget that will make this budget more stable and stabilize its expenses. In November 2008, the IMF approved a two-year loan of USD 16.4 billion to Ukraine and allocated USD 4.5 billion as the first tranche of this loan. On May 12, 2009, Ukraine received USD 2.8 billion as the second tranche of the fund's loan. Part of the second tranche worth USD 1.5 billion was sent to Ukraine's state budget to finance the government's foreign debts. ... Acting Finance Minister Ihor Umansky said earlier that Ukraine was planning to ask the International Monetary Fund to increase the amount of the third tranche to $3.8 billion to finance the country's budget deficit.

EU Warns of Potential Gas Crisis

iBYuT.com — 2009-06-23T12:26:55-04:00

But officials from Naftohaz Ukrainy – Ukraine’s national gas company – say it has 16 billion cubic metres of gas left to pump this year in addition to monthly gas purchases used mostly for industrial needs. The demand for gas in the country has slumped as a consequence of higher gas prices and the recession, both of which have hit Ukraine’s manufacturing industry hard. Anxious to avoid any repetition of the gas shut-off in January that caused a number of European countries to shiver, the EU has been keen to explore scenarios in which it could assist Ukraine. ...Oleksandr Paliy, a political analyst, was quoted in the Financial Times as saying, “It doesn’t make sense for Ukraine to pump gas into its storage tanks which is not necessary for the economy. ...Another option being explored is a $4 billion loan facility from European banks which would enable Ukraine to purchase three months of gas from Russia. It is understood that Ukraine, the EU and Russia are working jointly on this option after Russia refused to make a loan on its own.

Tymoshenko, U.S. delegates discuss energy issues

iBYuT.com — 2009-06-22T07:43:28-04:00

Published in Kyiv Post Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko on Friday met with U.S. delegates led by U.S. Special Envoy for Eurasian Energy Richard Morningstar. During the meeting, the sides discussed issues related to energy security and prospects for the implementation of bilateral energy projects, the Ukrainian government's press service reported. In particular, Tymoshenko stressed the importance of developing cooperation between Ukraine and the Untied States in the energy sector.

European idea will consolidate Ukrainian society: Yulia Tymoshenko

iBYuT.com — 2009-06-18T17:03:40-04:00

Moreover, Yulia Tymoshenko views as necessary to outline a European prospect for Ukraine in the text of the Agreement. The PM considers the European perspective is capable of consolidating Ukrainian society.

Cooperation between Ukraine and IMF proves successful: Yulia Tymoshenko

iBYuT.com — 2009-06-18T17:01:45-04:00

Government Press Office Ukraine’s cooperation with the International Monetary Fund has proven successful in the rendering of financial aid. The Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko announced during her meeting with Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Germany and Poland. “Ukraine has already obtained two tranches while the cooperation program was reconsidered only once,” the Premier underlined. The Head of Government explained on June 24 an IMF mission visit was due to further the dialog and reconsider implementation of the joint program. “We are expecting for the following tranche in the end of July,” Yulia Tymoshenko said and added the sum of tranche to amount USD 3.8 billion.

Yulia Tymoshenko holds a series of bilateral meetings in Luxembourg

iBYuT.com — 2009-06-17T09:30:26-04:00

Government Press Office In the course of her official visit to Luxembourg, Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko held a series of bilateral meetings. Yulia Tymoshenko met with Secretary General of the European Council, High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy Javier Solana and also with Grand-Duke Henri of Luxembourg. Furthermore, Tymoshenko considered issues of bilateral Ukraine-Luxembourg cooperation with the Prime Minister, Minister of State, Finance Minister of Luxembourg Jean-Claude Juncker.

Bank Recapitalisations Restore Stability

iBYuT.com — 2009-06-15T10:51:19-04:00

The defensive measures taken now could net an eventual dividend for the government as the State Property Fund plans to sell off the banks once financial and economic markets have recovered. Revised forecasts from the World Bank, IMF and government indicate that the economy is likely to start to recover later this year. According to the premier, the government intervention was necessary to prevent wider instability in the nation's banking industry, and because of stipulations set for Ukraine by the IMF. ...Martin Raiser, Director of the World Bank for Belarus, Ukraine and Moldova also applauded the decisive action, saying that it was a “crucial step” and that it will “resume and strengthen trust in the banking system of Ukraine.” ...A rapid depreciation of the currency, the hryvnia, has seen businesses and individuals (many home owners purchased mortgages with foreign currency loans) struggle with foreign debt. This both fed into and compounded an economic recession which has seen rising unemployment and falling wages, which in turn has put more pressure on the banks.

Premier to attend EU-Ukraine Cooperation Council meeting

iBYuT.com — 2009-06-15T09:24:24-04:00

Sources: Ukrinform & Station The Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko will visit Luxembourg tomorrow to attend a meeting of the EU-Ukraine Cooperation Council hosted by Jean-Claude Junker. European Commission officials and the Ukrainian premier are planning to discuss the political and economic situation in the country. They will also focus on the development of bilateral relations and visa issues. Yulia Tymoshenko will also be received in audience by His Royal Highness Grand Duke at the Grand Ducal Palace.

Ukraine and EBRD sign Memorandum of cooperation in energy domain

iBYuT.com — 2009-06-11T16:48:59-04:00

The Premier of Ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko stressed this instrument is significant for Ukraine as it concerns the most vulnerable branch – energy sector. According to the PM, this branch necessitates huge investments. The Head of Government underlined signing of the document would enable broadening cooperation in the issues of reforming of energy and introduction of energy saving programs.

Yulia Confirms Bid for Presidency as Talks Fold

iBYuT.com — 2009-06-10T10:07:26-04:00

The objective was to put in place a stable and strong government capable of tackling the severe economic downturn, which has ravaged Ukraine’s economy. To-date political infighting made this job difficult, with some politicians more concerned about scoring political points ahead of the January presidential election, than working in the best interests of the people. Ms Tymoshenko turned on her adversaries saying, “The anti-crisis programme of the government is being burned, on the one side by Victor Yushchenko and on the other by Yanukovcyh.” ...Ms Tymoshenko maintained that Mr Yanukovych had attempted to discredit her by suggesting he was opposed to plans to amend the constitution that would allow parliament to select Ukraine’s next president. She said that it was his party that backed this and wanted to introduce a clause that would only allow candidates 50 years of age or older to be considered for the presidency. ...Ms Tymoshenko said that she would continue to strive for political unity so as to combat more effectively the economic recession.

EBRD Delegation Arrives In Ukraine To Meet Executives

iBYuT.com — 2009-06-10T09:56:28-04:00

In course of the visit the delegation is likely to sign a memorandum on realization of energy-saving projects in Ukraine with the Cabinet of Ministers. The delegation will stay in Ukraine into June 13. As Ukrainian News earlier reported, the Ukrainian delegation headed by Vice Prime Minister Hryhorii Nemyria participated in the EBRD Board of Governors meeting on May 14-17.

Yulia Tymoshenko will run for president

iBYuT.com — 2009-06-08T14:41:06-04:00

iBYuT Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko says she will seek the presidency next January, though the actual date of the election has not been set. Tymoshenko announced her presidential bid on television Sunday night. Tymoshenko stated that under her leadership the government would be strong and would reject all forms of corruption. “I intend to be victorious,” she stated.

Tymoshenko: European project not finished because Ukraine is not there

iBYuT.com — 2009-06-04T14:35:55-04:00

She noted that today it isn’t enough to remember the events of twenty years ago – we need to continue to cast off the remnants of the totalitarian regime, because some of them still exist. “My friend, the Prime Minister of Poland, has been successfully overcoming difficulties during the crisis, and I wish him success in it and welfare to Poland”, she said. At the same time, Yulia Tymoshenko is confident that Ukraine will sooner or later become a member of the European Union. ...But I want to turn to all of you, to all my colleagues from the European Union, I want to turn to all the Poles, to my friend Mr.... I want to thank you for Poland is one of the countries, which have been insistently trying to pave the way for Ukraine to the place we you already are [to the EU]. We envy you, but we believe that Ukraine will be in the European Union”, the Ukrainian Prime Minister stressed, noting that Ukraine knows how to win, but sometimes needs more time for a victory.

Tymoshenko to visit Poland

iBYuT.com — 2009-06-03T10:55:53-04:00

Sources: Kyiv Post / Interfax Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko will on Thursday visit Poland to meet with Polish Premier Donald Tusk. Tymoshenko will also attend events celebrating the 20th anniversary of the collapse of the Communist dictatorships in Eastern Europe. During the trip, Tymoshenko is also to meet with the leaders of other European states, in particular, German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Energy is Politics as Russia Pressures EU

iBYuT.com — 2009-06-02T11:53:52-04:00

This time Gazprom claimed that Naftohaz Ukrainy – Ukraine’s state-run gas company – might have to start paying for its gas deliveries in advance because it was in financial difficulty. ...Fuel and Energy Minister Yuriy Prodan, who was part of a Ukrainian delegation visiting Libya, responded, “We will make all efforts to ensure that Naftohaz, as it has before, pays for gas deliveries in full and on time." ...Furthermore, the EU’s pledge of financial support indicated that the 27-member bloc was committed to Ukraine being a major artery for gas deliveries to Europe – raising doubt over the Nord and South Stream projects backed by Russia which bypass Ukrainian territory. ...Russia clearly wants to use fear of another gas crisis to undermine the recent deal signed by the EU and Ukraine to modernise Ukraine's gas pipeline system – which is a direct competitor to new pipelines Gazprom wants to build.” ...“Of course the prime minister wants to improve our relationship, but not to the detriment of our European integration efforts and certainly not at the expense of control over our gas pipeline network. ...One London-based analyst told Inform that he suspected that the Obama administration places more value on its relationship with Russia and that Ukraine, with its ongoing political turmoil, does not warrant such a high priority.

Ukraine Will Pay its Gas Bill

iBYuT.com — 2009-05-28T09:50:00-04:00

Political analysts believe that Russia’s choice of words is an attempt to besmirch Ukraine’s reputation, in the hope that the EU drops its plans to help modernise Ukraine’s gas transportation network and supports pipeline schemes that bypass Ukrainian territory. ...On the table was a proposal that Russia pay Ukraine five years in advance for the transportation of gas through Ukraine’s pipeline network (transit fees). This would enable Naftohaz to buy gas to fill its underground storage facilities and ensure uninterrupted supplies to Europe. Prior to the meeting, Russian officials hinted that Naftohaz was in financial difficulty and unable to meet its commitments to customers and replenish gas consumed from its storage facilities. ..."The financial state of Naftohaz remains stable, and there is no basis for the emergence of another gas crisis in our relations with Russia," he said. ...But I believe we will find a compromise that will ensure the stable operation of the Ukrainian gas transportation system in the autumn and winter period," said Ms Tymoshenko.

Nemyria met the Riksdag speaker of Sweden

iBYuT.com — 2009-05-28T09:12:20-04:00

The Vice Premier and Riksdag Speaker also discussed the prospects of relations between Ukraine and the EU during its Swedish presidency in the second half of year. “We have every reason to consider the Swedish presidency to be successful, in particular from the point of view of the European perspective toward Ukraine,” Hryhoriy Nemyria underlined. The other issue raised were the results of the Summit which dealt with the launch of Eastern Partnership Initiative (held on May 7 in Prague). The efforts made by the governments of Ukraine and Sweden in the direction of mitigation of consequences of the global financial turmoil and recent achievements of Ukraine in cooperation with the IMF, World Bank and EBRD were also discussed.

Tymoshenko leaves for two-day visit to Lybia

iBYuT.com — 2009-05-26T08:14:26-04:00

Source: Government Press Office Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko departed on an official two-day visit to Libya on Monday. In the course of the visit, Yulia Tymoshenko will meet with Libyan leader Muammar al-Gaddafi, Libyan Secretary of General People`s Committee of Libya al-Baghdadi Ali al-Mahmudi and Secretary General of the General People`s Congress of Libya Imbarek Shamekh. Cooperation in the oil, aircraft and agricultural sectors will be discussed. In the framework of the visit, bilateral Ukraine-Lybia documents are planned to be signed.

Tymoshenko hopes to agree on gas issue with Putin

iBYuT.com — 2009-05-22T14:14:18-04:00

Ukraine and Russia will find mutual understanding in supply and transit of Russian gas, the Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko stated. “Today we have a possibility to discuss cooperation on gas supplies and transit. I am sure we will find an understanding,” Tymoshenko said at the beginning of today’s meeting with the PM of Russia, Vladimir Putin, in Astana. Tymoshenko noted that the solution of this issue is important for everybody: for Ukraine, Russia and the EU. ...According to Tymoshenko, in the recent times between Ukraine and Russia there are very constructive relations. Tymoshenko added that in crisis conditions cooperation between the two countries has additional importance.

Prime Minister of Ukraine Y. Tymoshenko met with President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev

iBYuT.com — 2009-05-22T14:00:58-04:00

In his turn, President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev underlined the relations between Ukraine and Kazakhstan “is of great priority”: “I feel sorry that the potential the two states possess has not been used fully.” Also, during the meeting with Yulia Tymoshenko Nursultan Nazarbayev congratulated the Prime Minister of Ukraine on a victory of Ukrainian Football Club Shakhtar in the UEFA Cup.

Tymoshenko left for two-day working visit to Kazakhstan

iBYuT.com — 2009-05-21T11:24:53-04:00

Published by UNIAN Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko has left on a two-day working visit for Astana (Kazakhstan), where she will take part in a session of the CIS Prime Ministers Council on May 22. According to an UNIAN correspondent, within frames of the session, Yulia Tymoshenko is due to hold a number of bilateral meetings, in particular, with President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev and Kazakh Prime Minister Karim Masimov. Besides, Yulia Tymoshenko also plans to meet with Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin.

Court Rejects October Presidential Election

iBYuT.com — 2009-05-19T11:51:26-04:00

The parliamentarians had pinned their hopes for an October election on the contention that as the current head of state took office in 2005 – which was prior to the amendments to the Constitution taking effect – the old regulations applied. Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko greeted the court’s decision saying, “The president has managed to haggle a few more months from the Constitutional Court.” Political commentators do not believe that the extra time bought by the president will enable him to claw back the votes he would need to get into a second round run-off. Viktor Nebozhenko of the Barometer think tank was quoted in the Kyiv Post as saying, "Yanukovych will probably win the first round but lose the run-off as she (Ms Tymoshenko) is more skilled at elections.” ...It is expected that parliamentary lawmakers will abide by the decision of the Constitutional Court and not seek to hasten the presidential election. ...It halted its two-day blockade of parliament (a protest calling for the dismissal of the Minister for the Interior, Yuriy Lutsenko), which robbed President Yushchenko of the opportunity to dismiss Parliament on Monday, 18 May, when it would have been out of session for the 30 days since 17 April.

Nemyria notes importance of EBRD's financial support for projects to prepare for Euro 2012

iBYuT.com — 2009-05-18T12:44:27-04:00

Nemyria also described the dynamics of the development of relations between Ukraine and the EBRD as the indicator for cooperation with foreign investors. In addition, the officials also discussed the Ukrainian government's efforts regarding overcoming the consequences of the world financial crisis, and cooperation between Ukraine and other financial establishments, in particular, the International Monetary Fund.

Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko held meeting with President of Finland Tarja Halonen

iBYuT.com — 2009-05-14T15:00:12-04:00

Yulia Tymoshenko believes it is as a good sign that the delegation has brought a powerful team of businessmen who are interested in Ukraine as a potential partner: “The arrival of such a powerful business-team together with you is significant and weighty and it is a signal for the development of our joint work in the economic area”. According to the Prime Minister, cooperation between the states has to be developed in energy saving, in particular in use of renewable energy sources, climate improvement: “Energy saving is determined as one of mainstream strategic lines of Government’s activity”. Yulia Tymoshenko accentuated for Ukraine it would be an advantage to take experience of Finland in the issues of corruption fight as this phenomenon is least spread in there among the other EU countries. “Whole our team is trying to fight against this phenomenon, we have certain success but the discussion, experience exchange is significant too,” the Head of Government emphasized. In her turn, the President of the Republic of Finland Tarja Halonen stressed in their activity Ukraine and Finland should be guided by a principle “united Europe – single world”. ...At this, she expressed hopes Ukraine will be able to activate efforts in the frames of joining a free trade area as it would open new opportunities for the Ukrainian state.

Ukraine hopes for fruitful cooperation with EBRD under European energy efficiency initiative

iBYuT.com — 2009-05-14T11:49:50-04:00

Published in Interfax Ukraine is counting on fruitful cooperation with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) as part of the European initiative on energy efficiency, Vice Premier Hryhoriy Nemyria said at a Ukrainian-Finnish business forum in Kyiv on Wednesday. He said that Eastern European countries would be the major recipients of this program, and added that Ukraine has shown good progress in developing its cooperation with the EBRD, especially in the last two years. Nemyria said that EUR 5 billion would be spent over three years on the implementation of energy saving projects as part of this initiative.

Y. Tymoshenko: Ukraine has paid off to the Russian Federation for the natural gas in full amounts and in time

iBYuT.com — 2009-05-14T11:39:30-04:00

Besides, Yulia Tymoshenko accentuated the Gov’t had succeeded in curbing corruption in gas area and nowadays the system of natural gas supplies in Ukraine is freed from this phenomenon. “As it had been in the times of the Second World War when minefields had been checked and information received that the territory was free from mines, nowadays we have several areas, including the area of natural gas supplies, which are completely free from corruption, from abuses, from bureaucratic impudence of previous authorities,” the Prime Minister explained.

IMF Releases $2.8 Billion Payment to Ukraine

iBYuT.com — 2009-05-12T11:16:14-04:00

Exchange rate and import restrictions were waived on the proviso that the National Bank of Ukraine commits to implementing a flexible exchange rate policy and that the authorities phase out administrative measures, import surcharges, and restrictions limiting exchange rate flexibility. ...“First, the government has already made good progress; and, second, the first review was delayed for so long that it only seems fair to partially advance the disbursement originally scheduled under the second review,” she said. ...“We currently project a decline of real GDP by more than 8 percent in 2009, and further downward revisions may be needed if regional and global conditions deteriorate further. ... The exchange rate has undergone a sizeable adjustment, the current account deficit has declined significantly, and inflation has fallen more than expected,” she said. ...We have in place prudent fiscal policies, have embarked upon transparent plans for bank restructures and are committed to a flexible exchange rate. We are managing our way through this crisis and I am confident Ukraine will emerge with a solid foundation for long-term sustainable growth.

IMF To Eye Provisioning Ukraine With Second Stand-By Tranche On May 8

iBYuT.com — 2009-05-06T01:37:02-04:00

Tymoshenko said that this is a positive signal for Ukraine , which manifests the efficient work of the government. As Ukrainian News earlier reported, the IMF has admitted the allocation of the second tranche worth USD 2.8 billion to Ukraine . On November 5, 2008, the IMF decided to grant USD 16.4 billion to Ukraine to overcome turmoil in the country's economy. On November 10, 2008, the Fund allocated the first tranche worth USD 4.5 billion.

Tymoshenko Resets Ukraine-Russia Relations

iBYuT.com — 2009-05-06T01:14:42-04:00

However, consumption of gas by Ukrainian industrial customers was down 50 percent on the quarter year on year – with a total of only 2.6 billion cubic metres of gas consumed. This drop in usage was largely attributable to the economic downturn, and raised the prospect of Ukraine facing potential penalty fines in excess of a billion dollars. ...The talks also focused on bilateral trade, where, despite the economic downturn, trade between the two countries increased late last year and early this year, hitting the $40 billion mark. ... A satisfied Mr Putin said, “What very much pleases me is that cooperation between certain rather sensitive and important industries and enterprises is not being destroyed but deepened.” Although the talks did not result in confirmation of a $5 billion loan from Russia to help prop up Ukraine’s economy, dialogue on the issue was nevertheless kept open. ...Vitaliy Bala, Director of the Agency for Modeling Situations, was quoted in the Kyiv Post as saying that the visit to Russia "showed that relations between Ukraine and Russia are entering an economic, rather than a political stage."

Tymoshenko is pleased with Russian visit

iBYuT.com — 2009-05-01T16:44:38-04:00

“All the tasks set by the government for the visit to Russia and for the committee meeting have been fulfilled, and we continue fruitful cooperation,” Tymoshenko said. The Prime Minister emphasized that they managed to settle the question of opening new and strengthening old commercial missions of the two countries in one another's territory. ... Tymoshenko paid a special attention to the agreements signed on cooperation in the field of nuclear fuel supply to Ukraine in 2010 - 2020, and on completion of two reactors at Ukraine's Khmelnytskyi nuclear power plant. The fourth problem, that of pumping into Ukraine's underground storages Russian gas to be used in winter period, was also solved. The Prime Minister pointed out a particular importance of the accord on lifting restrictions on the volume of natural gas to be bought by Ukraine from Russia's Gazprom. ... As reported, in the first quarter of 2009, Ukraine used only 2.6 billion cubic meters of Russian gas, with 5 billion cubic meters contracted, which threatened with a fine of USD 1.188 billion.

Nemyria: IMF to consider allocation of next tranche to Ukraine on May 13

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-30T10:40:08-04:00

"Everything is fine. The meeting of the [IMF] Executive Board is slated for May 13," Nemyria quoted Pazarbasioglu as saying. He also said that the IMF mission chief does not see any obstacle to the allocation of the next tranche to Ukraine.

Tymoshenko: Talks with Russia on gas payments successful

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-29T14:45:00-04:00

An understanding was reached on pumping 800 million cubic meters of Russian gas into Ukrainian storage facilities in April at the expense of future transit, she said. Tymoshenko voiced the hope that the mechanism of payment by Ukraine for the gas supplies for the cold season will be determined in the future intergovernmental agreement, which Ukraine plans to submit to Russia in May. "Immediately after the holidays we will send the draft of the intergovernmental agreement," she said. The proposed option of settlements would be beneficial for both Ukraine and Russia, Tymoshenko said.

Germany ready to help Ukraine prepare to Euro-2012 – Nemyrya

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-28T11:43:02-04:00

Published in UNIAN According to an UNIAN correspondent, Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine Hryhoriy Nemyrya said this to a press conference on Tuesday, after the fourth session of the Ukrainian-German High Level Group for Economic Collaboration. According to him, considering the German experience in holding large-scale sports measures, the sides agreed to sign a framework agreement between Germany and Ukraine concerning collaboration in the sphere of Euro-2012. He noted that the document will be worked out in line with the model of the agreement signed between Germany and the South-African Republic, which hosts the World Football Championship in 2010.

Tymoshenko says government has political will to conduct reforms under cooperation program with IMF

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-28T11:44:55-04:00

“The government did the utmost to continue this cooperation, which is actually a bailout program to Ukraine,” Tymoshenko said. In his turn, Steinberg expressed confidence that the Ukrainian government well realizes the global financial crisis challenges and knows how to respond to them. In his words, further cooperation with the IMF is one of Ukraine's key anti-crisis efforts.

World Bank ready to boost co-operation with Ukraine

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-27T10:13:54-04:00

At the meeting, Nemyria informed her about the efforts of the Cabinet of Ministers to overcome the consequences of the global financial turmoil. The sides also discussed the co-operation between Ukrainian and other international institutions, in particular, the International Monetary Fund. The vice prime minister informed Okonjo-Iweala about the agreements reached during the IMF's mission in Kyiv and expressed his hope that soon, Ukrainian will obtain the second tranche of the stand-by loan from the Fund. As Ukrainian News earlier reported, on April 21, Nemyria left on official visit for Washington, the United States.

Ukrainian, Russian premiers to discuss energy cooperation on April 29

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-24T16:22:02-04:00

Published by NSDC Ukrainian and Russian Prime Ministers Yulia Tymoshenko and Vladimir Putin will discuss cooperation between their countries in the energy sector at a meeting in Moscow on April 29. At a meeting of the committee for economic cooperation of the Ukrainian-Russian interstate commission, they are also planning to consider the implementation of promising issues of the activity of the committee's sub-commissions, which were approved in a protocol at the third meeting of the committee in Kyiv in April 2008. In particular, the premiers will discuss ways to step up trade and economic cooperation in the context of measures to tackle the financial and economic crises, as well as interaction in the field of industry and transport, aviation and space sectors, and agriculture. A number of bilateral documents are to be signed at the meeting.

Ukraine's Deputy Premier Nemyria addresses Brookings Institution

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-23T14:58:21-04:00

Apart from this, the parties dwelt on the issues of support for Ukraine in the context of the fulfillment of its commitments in frames of the agreements with the IMF and ways of overcoming the aftermath of the global economic downturn by the Ukrainian and US governments. H. Nemyria has been on a working visit to the US since April 21, where he leads a Ukrainian delegation at the spring meeting of the IMF and World Bank Boards.

Ukraine to observe gas understandings with Russia

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-23T10:33:34-04:00

"That event proved that even under difficult conditions, it is possible to organise decision-making process in such a way that it will bring positive results," Nemyria noted. "As I said previously during the talks in Washington, the Ukrainian government in the person of Prime Minister Yulia Timoshenko pushed "the reset button" of relations with Russia even earlier than the US administration," the Ukrainian vice-premier said. He noted that Ukraine's desire for integration in Europe does not run counter to good relations with Russia. "We want to continue establishing cooperation with Russia, since we believe that European integration should be underpinned by very constructive relations with Moscow rather than to be levelled against it," Nemyria underlined.

Nemyria to participate in IMF, World Bank meeting

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-21T13:51:48-04:00

Published in Kyiv Post Ukrainian Vice Premier Hryhoriy Nemyria will leave for Washington, the United States, on Tuesday to participate in a spring meeting of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank (WB). "Today I am leaving for Washington to participate in a spring meeting of the IMF and the World Bank," he said in Kyiv on Tuesday. Nemyria said that he is planning to meet the management of these organizations, as well as officials from the new U.S. administration in order to "make use of the positive signal given to Ukraine last week [concerning the IMF's readiness to allocate the next tranche of its loan to Ukraine]."

Hryhoriy Nemyria left for the USA on official visit

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-21T13:02:17-04:00

Government Press Office April 21-26, Vice Prime Minister for European and International Integration Hryhoriy Nemyria will be on official visit to Washington. Hryhoriy Nemyria leads a delegation from Ukraine that will participate in the spring meetings of IMF and World Bank Board of Governors. In the course of his visit Hryhoriy Nemyria will hold meetings with leaders of the IMF, World Bank and representatives of the US Government and Congress. Hryhoriy Nemyria will also take the floor in Brookings Institution, during a meeting of the US-Ukraine Business Council and will participate in a conference “The First 100 Days. Opportunities in Crisis: Empowering Society in a Time of Economic Turmoil” sponsored by the Bertelsmann Fund jointly with the Financial Times.

IMF Puts Ukraine On Course for $2.8 Bn Payout

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-21T12:55:32-04:00

The move vindicates the actions of the democratic coalition government headed by Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, which last Tuesday approved unilaterally a series of anti-crisis measures needed to meet the loan conditions stipulated by the IMF. ...The Party of Regions, Communist Party, and elements of the Our Ukraine-People’s Self-Defence bloc loyal to the president, had voted to keep if off the parliamentary agenda, forcing the government to act. ...The payment of the second tranche was originally due in February, but had been held back while the IMF waited for Kyiv to trim public spending and, in particular, balance the state pension fund and the finances of Naftohaz Ukrainy, the state run gas company. The government resolutions confirmed measures to cut spending in the 2009 state budget; increase gas and electricity prices for large consumers; provide equal conditions for all payers to the Pension Fund; legalise paid services; recalibrate the budget of Naftohaz, and support the recapitalisation of banks placed under temporary administration. ...The ability of the premier’s team to tackle major fiscal issues, which other factions were manipulating for political purposes in what is now a presidential election year, has won the premier plaudits. Ms Pazarbasioglu described the talks with the government as “very constructive” and said, "We are optimistic and we were very encouraged (by) this recent stability in Ukraine."

Ukraine needs to speed up state reforms - UNDP

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-17T12:29:46-04:00

It is vital to analyse the recent achievements and shortcomings and revisit the agenda of national human development priorities,” explained Cihan Sultanoglu, Deputy Director at UNDP Regional Bureau for Europe and the CIS, who came to Ukraine on official visit. “The new report urges for a concerted reform effort in Ukraine, analysing recent developments against a set of 170 policy recommendations, which indicate most relevant measures aimed at building market institutions, providing macroeconomic stabilization and taking advantage of international trade on a path to regaining dynamic, long-term growth that will give the country the international prominence it so richly deserves” she added. ...These priority recommendations are selected from a detailed analysis that addresses the challenges faced by Ukraine in three main areas: 1) ensuring macroeconomic stabilization; 2) enhancing market institutions to support further reforms and 3) improving Ukraine’s integration into the world economy. ...“Ukraine’s WTO accession and the launch of negotiations on FTA with the EU, adoption of a modern joint stock company law, progress in public procurement law, and transition to a more flexible exchange rate regime are seen as the most important accomplishments,” said Marcin Swiecicki, BRAAC Director. But the list of pending reforms is yet long as there was small or no progress in combating corruption, privatization, empowering local authorities, lifting the moratorium on the sale of agricultural land, implementing the next stage of pension system reforms, instituting better targeted social policies, lowering inflation, abolishing the Commercial Code, and strengthening independence and impartiality of the judiciary. ...“These new recommendations are intended to help the President, the Government, and the Verkhovna Rada to shape policy in coming months, and also to give Ukrainian civil society a useful tool to monitor reform progress in key areas,” said Joanna Kazana-Wisniowiecka, Acting UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine.

IMF to propose $2.8 billion loan to Ukraine

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-17T12:29:50-04:00

The stand-by program foresees that the IMF mission will check every quarter whether Ukraine observes the terms of its memorandum with the IMF. According to the previous schedule, the second tranche was to be allocated on February 15 (SDR 1.25 billion - $1.87 billion), then on May 15 (SDR 2.5 billion - $3.73 billion), August 15 (SDR 0.75 billion), and November 15 (SDR 2 billion)

Ukraine’s cabinet to approve decrees for more IMF funds

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-14T12:18:52-04:00

The Kiev-based legislature declined to debate and pass changes to pension laws, including cuts in payments for retired state employees, and legislation on raising funding for the state-run oil and gas company NAK Naftogaz Ukrainy. Ukraine, like Latvia, Hungary, Serbia and Romania, sought an international bailout after the credit crunch dried up investment and recessions across western Europe sapped demand for exports. The IMF approved a two-year $16.4 billion loan in November and $4.5 billion was disbursed that month. Still, the government’s plan to run a 5 percent budget deficit this year delayed the second installment, initially planned for mid- February. The Washington-based lender’s mission retuned to Kiev last week after Ukrainian lawmakers approved two measures to narrow the budget gap, including increasing taxes on alcohol and diesel products, and pledged to pass the other three legal amendments. ...Its economy contracted 8 percent in the fourth quarter of 2008, compared with 6.4 percent growth in the previous quarter.

Ukraine's Dangerous Game

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-10T11:50:31-04:00

With her fiery rhetoric and political savvy - not to mention her stunning looks and famously distinctive braids - she seemed destined to be the face of the post-Soviet world's new wave of democratic revolution. ...In attempting to manage Ukraine out of a crisis while attending to both her country's desire to rejoin Europe and its fear of an increasingly expansionist Russia, it's becoming more and more difficult to please anybody. ...Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin did not like Tymoshenko's recent deal with the European Union on the modernization of Ukraine's gas infrastructure, and Moscow is holding up a $5 billion loan to Ukraine to mark its dissatisfaction. ..."I try to defend our interests so that we can find a balance in our relations both with the EU and Russia," Tymoshenko explains, meaning she wants her country to get into the EU without giving the impression of antagonizing Russia. ...While recognizing it would be "uncomfortable" for Ukraine to remain "in a void, outside all existing security systems," she still sees several "political barriers" between Kiev and NATO. ...In Tymoshenko's own words, "There is no unanimity in the EU on Ukraine's joining NATO as we have not yet witnessed a favorable attitude in every country."

Tymoshenko: Ukrainian authorities united in their desire to resume cooperation with IMF

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-08T13:48:44-04:00

Tymoshenko said that the "revenues to the state budget's general fund are being covered with extreme difficulty," but added that wages and pensions are being paid in Ukraine. "We have built our cooperation with the National Bank [of Ukraine] quite effectively," she said, adding that the government had balanced the financial plan of Naftogaz Ukrainy, and that the company is currently making payments for Russian gas in full and on time. ...Tymoshenko said that "there are [a lot of] problems" in the country and added she would like to discuss them at a meeting with the fund's mission. National Bank of Ukraine Governor Volodymyr Stelmakh, in turn, said that the financial situation in Ukraine is stable, and noted the strengthening of the hryvnia in March and a fall in the inflation rate. IMF Mission Chief in Ukraine Ceyla Pazarbasioglu, in turn, said that the question of regaining confidence in government policies is currently important for Ukraine. ..."The government, the National Bank of Ukraine, the Presidential Secretariat, and ministries have all shown a good level of cooperation with us – the IMF Resident Representative Office in Ukraine," she said.

65% of Ukrainian citizens convinced the Gov't of Yulia Tymoshenko will curb the crisis

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-07T12:49:00-04:00

65 % of citizens of Ukraine are convinced the Government of Yulia Tymoshenko will curb the crisis. The public opinion poll demonstrated in the course of the Shuster Live program on TRK Ukrayina channel. “I am grateful to you for the support. I will spare no effort for you to feel our country is strong,” the Prime Minister of Ukraine emphasized.

IMF Payment Imminent as Mission Returns to Kyiv

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-07T14:03:51-04:00

The emphasis now is to pass the remaining legislation which includes measures to balance the finances of the state pension fund and national gas company. “This is a most positive development and the culmination of much hard work,” said Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko. “We are confident that Ukraine’s parliamentary forces will not squander this opportunity and we will pass the necessary legislation.” ...However, the second tranche of $1.86 billion, due in February, was delayed pending the passage of laws to tighten fiscal spending. Last week, leaders of the G20 countries met in London and pledged to triple the IMF’s war chest to $750 billion. IMF Managing Director Dominique Strauss-Kahn said that the huge increase would bolster the IMF’s firepower to help economies around the world respond to the global financial crisis.

Tymoshenko: Naftogaz to pay Gazprom for gas supplied in March on time

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-03T11:07:42-04:00

Tymoshenko said that there would be no surprises in the work of the Ukrainian company following the removal of "corrupt intermediaries" from the gas trade between Naftogaz and Gazprom. Speaking about Russian objections to Ukraine's plans to modernize and reconstruct its gas transportation system along with the European Union, Tymoshenko said that Ukrainian Fuel and Energy Minister Yuriy Prodan and Acting Naftogaz Head Ihor Didenko are currently holding the necessary talks on this issue with their colleagues at the Russian Energy Ministry and Gazprom. "This is an open option of cooperation. We are ready to cooperate with everybody who offers the best options with the lowest prices and the highest quality," Tymoshenko said.

Hryhoriy Nemyria stands for cooperation between Ukraine and the OECD

iBYuT.com — 2009-04-01T10:55:30-04:00

Within the scope of his official visit to Paris, Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine for European and International Integration Hryhoriy Nemyria took part in a ministerial conference dedicated to the launch of a Eurasia Competitiveness Programme for the Southern Caucasus and Ukraine, in the frames of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). “I am pleased to see that the OECD has expressed a desire to facilitate carrying out reforms and sustainable development in Ukraine and countries of the Southern Caucasus,” Hryhoriy Nemyria said at the beginning of his speech. According to him, right now, in the time of a global financial crunch the launch of an Eurasia Competitiveness Programme is rather timely. The Programme completely corresponds to the efforts of the Government directed to mitigation of the fallouts of the crisis and will enable to improve investment climate in Ukraine, carry out necessary reforms, notably in financial sector, and raise competitiveness of our state. Hryhoriy Nemyria urged to deepen cooperation between Ukraine and the OECD, especially to intensify participation in the activity of committees of this organization.

Tymoshenko: Visit to Japan a success

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-30T15:11:23-04:00

At the same time, she recalled the general goal of the visit: "We had two days only, and we had to open Ukraine to Japan, and Japan to Ukraine within the two days." Tymoshenko said there were mutually beneficial conditions for a partnership between Ukraine and Japan. "No one is giving any presents to Ukraine… We're equal partners. Japan is interested in investing its technologies here [in Ukraine's gas transportation system], using energy saving and environmentally friendly technologies and receiving a profit from this. We want to have a country with an absolutely different level of environmental [protection] and energy efficiency," she said.

Yulia Tymoshenko meets with Japanese prime minister

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-26T12:40:50-04:00

Japan is a reliable partner to Ukraine for bilateral economic cooperation, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko stated during a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso in Tokyo. Tymoshenko noted that the Ukrainian government highly values its cooperation with Japan. She expressed thanks on behalf of the government for this bilateral cooperation, which allows for the implementation of joint projects in many fields. “Ukraine considers Japan to be a reliable partner for implementation of projects in many directions, dealing with the reconstruction and modernization of all spheres,” Tymoshenko noted. Aso noted that Japan considers Ukraine to be an important country, especially due to its geographic location. He welcomed the Ukrainian government’s efforts during the switch to a market economy, and emphasized that the joint statement between the prime ministers of Ukraine and Japan solidifies a course for future cooperation between the two countries.

Tymoshenko calling on Japanese corporations to deepen cooperation with Ukraine in frames of Kyoto Protocol

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-25T11:54:35-04:00

The prime minister said that these documents are the starting point for the elaboration of the complex strategy of modernization and using them Ukraine and Japan can work out the complex action plan. ...At the same time, she said that the Ukraine's resources from the sale of a part of the emission quotas will be channeled for the environmental projects. At his turn, the chairman of the Ukraine-Japan business co-operation committee, representative of the board of directors of the Sumitomo corporation Motoyuki Oka expressed hope that the current dialogue between the Ukrainian governmental delegation and heads of the leading Japanese corporations will give new impulse for the deepening of the co-operation between the countries. ...Oka said that the Ukraine's accession to the World Trade Organization enhanced the hope for the deepening of the co-operation with Ukraine. ...Prime Minister Tymoshenko is escorted by Vice Prime Minister Hryhorii Nemyria, Economy Minister Bohdan Danilishyn, and Vitalii Haiduk, the head of a group of advisors for the prime minister and the coordinator of the intergovernmental Ukrainian-Japanese cooperation. ...On February 13, 2009, Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko met with delegations from the leading Japanese corporations Sumitomo, Marubeni, Mitsubishi, Itochu, Sojitz, and Mitsui on and promised that the Ukrainian government would support Japanese corporations willing to invest in projects in Ukraine.

Yulia Tymoshenko: Ukraine is a reliable partner in energy sector

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-24T10:46:20-04:00

Together with that, the global financial crisis is teaching us to change our attitude and under such conditions I think we should turn to a more objective attitude to the gas transport system of Ukraine, as during a crisis it is rather hard to invest money into new global projects, but the Ukrainian GTS is worth investing funds. ...A joint workgroup of independent experts from Ukraine and the EU, that had held research during 2002-2006 years, have come to a conclusion the technical state of gas transport system of Ukraine is satisfactory and the system can ensure transit of gas to the tune of 140 billion cubic meters of gas year-on-year. ...In this connection it is evident that development and functioning of Ukrainian GTS according to the European principles and standards is a harmonious component of the general process of integration of Ukraine’s energy markets with those of the EU. ...The statement, due to be signed today, and our work are a proof of mutual striving of the parties to further cooperation in the context of harmonization of standards of functioning of the GTS and whole energy sector of Ukraine with the European standards. ...Realization of investment projects with regards to the Ukrainian GTS will enable to lure Ukrainian contracting companies, companies of other states to fulfill works and perform respective supplies in the framework of projects in the mentioned domain which, undoubtedly, will stir up the economic sector of Ukraine and the states wishing to participate in such large-scale projects of reconstruction and modernization. ...On my part, as the Head of Ukrainian Government, I guarantee rather firm control over keeping by Ukraine liabilities in the context of bringing to compliance with the norms and standards of the EU functioning of the gas sector.

President & PM to Visit EU Pipeline Conference

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-23T08:01:48-04:00

An EU-Ukraine audit of Ukraine’s gas transit infrastructure undertaken in 2006-2007 concluded that Ukraine’s pipeline system needed a €2.5 billion modernisation programme from 2008-2013. ...Also, it contains 13 underground gas storage systems, mostly located in the western part of the country, capable of holding a total volume of about 34 billion cubic metres of gas. ...A source close to the conference told Interfax that Russia hopes to get support for alternative pipeline routes that bypass Ukraine, namely the Nord and South Stream projects. Nord Stream is a planned Russo-German gas pipeline that would run under the Baltic Sea, whereas South Stream is a proposed route to transport Russian natural gas to Italy and Austria, running under the Black Sea to the south of Ukraine and through southern Europe. The decision by Ukraine’s president and prime minister to attend the conference took place before the two leaders met at a gathering of the European People’s Party in Brussels last Thursday. ...“I am completely ready for cooperation with the president, I was and always will be, in order to protect Ukraine from the crisis,” said Ms Tymoshenko.

Yulia Tymoshenko expects cooperation with IMF to resume quickly

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-20T18:00:13-04:00

Tymoshenko also said that Ukraine correctly set the State Budget deficit to 3%. According to her, one of the issues discussed during the European People’s Party summit was the size of the budget deficit that should be directed at supporting the real sector of the economy. “We were absolutely correct for not setting a zero budget deficit, and I’m very happy that all the anti-crisis measures discussed during the EPP Summit fully coincide with what the Ukrainian government is doing. ...The prime minister also announced that Ukraine supports Jose Manuel Barroso to a second term as EU President. “Ukraine isn’t a member of the EU, but it fully supports Mr. Barroso being President of the European Commission for a second term.

Prime Minister to visit Brussels

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-19T11:21:31-04:00

Published by Interfax Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko will pay a working visit to Brussels today. She is planning to meet with Secretary General of the EU Council, High Commissioner for Common Foreign and Security Policy Javier Solana. Tymoshenko will also take part in the summit of the European People's Party for holding bilateral meetings with Prime Minister of Belgium Herman Van Rompuy, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Prime Minister of Luxembourg Jean-Claude Juncker, and other European countries' leaders. The parties will discuss issues involved in cooperation between Ukraine and the European Union, including strengthening of European energy security, creation of a free trade zone, and conclusion of an association agreement between Ukraine and the EU.

Ukraine urges EU to extend emergency loans beyond its borders

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-19T11:21:36-04:00

"I'm talking about the potential use of the emergency fund," he added, referring to a 25-billion-euro pot currently available only to EU members outside of the eurozone. Hungary and Latvia, destablised by the economic crisis, have been allowed to dip into the fund, which may be increased at a meeting of EU heads of state and government in Brussels on Thursday and Friday, "If the EU neighbourhood is destabilised as a result (of the crisis)... then the immediate and negative impact will be felt very deeply bot just in the neigbourhood but also just as much in the EU," Nemyria warned. EU External Relations Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner said there were no plans to extend the emergency loans beyond the EU borders. ...The IMF is considering whether to grant a second instalment of 1.9 billion dollars from a 16.4-billion-dollar loan package to help the country cope with a severe economic crisis. But Ukraine risks missing out on the money over concerns for its ballooning budget deficit and political tensions between Tymoshenko and Yushchenko, which have paralysed decision-making in the country.

Cabinet of Ministers halves salaries of ministers

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-18T12:04:42-04:00

Members of the government agreed that the salaries of only the ministers who are political appointees would be reduced. The salaries of civil servants of all levels and employees of state monopolies will not be reduced because of the low wages in the civil service and state monopolies. The Cabinet of Ministers called on parliamentary deputies and President Viktor Yuschenko to also reduce their own wages. As Ukrainian News earlier reported, the parliament instructed the Cabinet of Ministers on March 3 to halve the maximum wages of the president, parliament speaker, prime minister, deputy prime ministers, parliamentary deputies, and senior government officials temporarily (until January 2010).

Ukraine and IMF continue to adjust cooperation program: Yulia Tymoshenko

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-18T12:04:45-04:00

At this, she added the process of working out the cooperation line with the IMF can not be unilateral activity of Ukraine but “it is the joint activity of the IMF and Ukraine”. Yulia Tymoshenko stressed the Government had completed its part of work concerning preparation of the mentioned document and submitted all the projects for considering to the IMF, so it is expecting for the results within the nearest time. “After all the adjustments to the program coordinated, I and the President will sign these documents,” the Head of Government assured.

Tymoshenko to pay official visits to Belgium on March 19, Japan from March 25 to 26

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-14T15:30:15-04:00

In Belgium Tymoshenko will deal with the issue on granting Ukraine a European Investment Bank's loan, Hryhoriy Nemyria aired on Ukraina TV Channel on March 13. "We are currently negotiating with certain international institutions, in particular, the European Investment Bank and the European Commission. The next round of the talks is due to be conducted in Brussels on March 19 with the participation of Ukraine's Prime Minister," Nemyria said. He reminded that the Cabinet of Ministers was also negotiating a loan to be granted by the World Bank. As Ukrainian News reported, the Cabinet of Ministers set up ten working groups to draft proposals on stepping up Ukrainian-Japanese cooperation. Tymoshenko met with delegations from the leading Japanese corporations Sumitomo, Marubeni, Mitsubishi, Itochu, Sojitz, and Mitsui on February 13 and promised that the Ukrainian government would support Japanese corporations willing to invest in projects in Ukraine.

Ukraine's government approves decisions on cooperation with IMF, getting second tranche of IMF loan

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-11T09:25:12-04:00

Nemyria also said that "a number of important decisions" were made at the meeting of the government to ensure the independence of the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU). It was decided to amend a resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers and the NBU regarding the refinancing of banks in the period of financial and economic crisis. It was also decided to amend a government resolution on the issue of the state participation in bank capitalization. In addition, it was decided to submit a draft law canceling Articles 84 and 86 of the Law of Ukraine on the 2009 national budget. Nemyria also confirmed the financial plan of Naftogaz Ukrainy had been approved at the meeting.

SBU Raid on Naftohaz Backfires

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-10T13:55:08-04:00

The raid on Naftohaz’s offices took place when Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko was on a one day working visit to France. Speaking from Paris, Ms Tymoshenko said, “They simply wanted to paralyse Naftohaz’s activity and destroy the gas transportation system in Ukraine.” ...Its objective was to torpedo the 2009 gas contract, causing Naftohaz to miss its payment deadline of 7 March and leverage the return of RosUkrEnergo. ...The strong-arm tactics, reminiscent of the worst of the Kuchma era, ultimately backfired as Naftohaz paid its debt to Gazprom. Also, last week Ukraine’s parliament voted overwhelmingly to establish a commission to investigate the circumstances around the raid. ...“The president seems intent on damaging the reputation of the nation by politicising the activities of SBU in this fashion,” said First Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Turchynov, “We will not tolerate corrupt practices in the energy sector.

Yulia Tymoshenko: The path to consolidating relations with the EU will unite Ukrainian society

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-09T11:51:52-04:00

And I, as the leader of a party, am involved in this competition,” she said. When asked if Ukraine will still want to enter the EU and NATO following the dismissal of Foreign Minister Volodymyr Ohryzko, Tymoshenko responded: “Naturally. ... This is an issue for all ministers, not just the minister of foreign affairs.” ...One is the lack of consensus among the population: only 30% of Ukrainians support joining NATO…And along with that there is a lack of unity among the European nations regarding Ukraine’s membership in the alliance. ...Speaking about relations with Russia, Tymoshenko noted that there’s no need to seek confrontation, because there is a need for “a certain harmony in energy and cooperation in the industrial sector.” “It is in our interest to seek harmony in the Europe-Ukraine-Russia triangle – and this is in line with the EU’s policy,” she emphasized.

France ready to help Ukraine cover planned budget deficit

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-05T11:21:54-05:00

The prime minister is sure that foreign loans will make it possible to fill the stabilization fund of the national budget. She predicts that Ukraine will be able to extend about UAH 20 billion for the real sector of the national economy. As Ukrainian News reported, Tymoshenko hopes Ukraine will get the second tranche of the International Monetary Fund loan in March or April. Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Hryhorii Nemyria says further cooperation with the International Monetary Fund within the framework of the stand-by program is the key prerequisite for successful completion of talks with other countries on financial aid to Ukraine.

Ukraine and France agree on deepening bilateral cooperation

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-05T10:24:00-05:00

Besides, during the talks the Prime Minister of France expressed readiness of Government of his country to provide overall support to Ukraine in the process of gearing-up to the European Football Championship of 2012, taking into account the fact France has an experience of holding such events while the business circles of the state are ready to invest into the Euro-2012 projects. According to Hryhoriy Nemyria, the heads of the governments have decided to ink a respective international agreement within nearest time. As Yulia Tymoshenko opined during the meeting such a document would possibly be signed in April already. Moreover, Vice Premier disclosed the heads of governments, in the course of negotiations, paid a great attention to the issues of cooperation in energy and gas spheres, in particular in terms of modernization of Ukrainian gas transport system. The counterparts agreed that the question of improvement of Ukrainian GTS should not be viewed apart from diversification of energy sources. According to Hryhoriy Nemyria, in the process of talks cooperation between Ukraine and France in the scope of integration to the European Security and Defence Policy has been considered either.

Ukraine asks for French nuclear, budget help

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-04T17:02:10-05:00

Tymoshenko said she and Sarkozy discussed French support for financing Ukraine's deficit. ...While in Paris, Tymoshenko met with executives from French nuclear energy giant Areva and discussed a possible joint project to extract Ukrainian uranium and build new Ukrainian nuclear energy facilities "to improve the energy situation in Ukraine." "Areva is ready to help us," she said, though she gave no details and announced no solid deals. ...In other meetings with French executives, she said, she discussed the possibility of building helicopters jointly with Airbus parent EADS and investment in road-building projects ahead of the Euro 2012 football championships, to be jointly hosted by Ukraine and Poland. Earlier, Tymoshenko gave the clearest sign yet that she plans to run for president, according to a report in France's Le Monde newspaper. ...The date of Ukraine's next presidential election has not been set, but it is expected late this year or in early 2010.

O. Turchynov: President Abuses SBU Powers

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-04T16:36:02-05:00

First Deputy Prime Minister, Oleksandr Turchynov, warned SBU agents not to abide by “criminal orders” from their leadership that run contrary to state interests. “The main aim of the security service’s attack is to seize the original gas contracts with Gazprom,” Turchynov said. ...You should not become weapons of criminals, which with the appointment of the president are managing the [state security] service or controlling it,” Mr Turchynov said at a briefing in Kyiv. Serhiy Davydenko, head of Naftogaz’s legal department, said the security agents were seeking original contracts from the Jan. 19 deal with Gazprom, Russia’s state-owned gas giant. The agreement ended a two-week cutoff of Russian gas to Europe and removed RosUkrEnergo from future gas transactions between the two nations. ...Davydenko said the dispute would not lead to renewed disruptions of Russian gas supplies to Ukraine and the rest of Europe.

Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko visits France

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-04T17:00:49-05:00

Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko has set off to France with a one-day working visit. In the course of the visit the Head of Ukrainian Government will hold a meeting with President of the French Republic Nicolas Sarkozy and Prime Minister of France François Fillon. Also the visit’s agenda includes a meeting with Minister of Economics, Industry and Employment Christine Lagarde.

A New Role for France in NATO and Europe

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-03T12:16:50-05:00

Only by securing the European identity of this entire region, and by anchoring the growing Russian-German relationship in a European context, can the European Union continue on its path of stability and prosperity. ... For it is in no European country's interest, or in the interest of the EU as a whole, for Central and Eastern Europe to feel that they have been cast adrift. ...But keeping Russia at arm's length from Europe has only strengthened the sense of isolation that many Russians feel, tempting them to define the country's interests in ways that are irreconcilable with those of Europe. ...A singular vision has always animated this process: Animosity among neighbors must not be allowed to fester, and the rule of law must reign not just within countries but also between them. To believe that such a vision can work for Russia, Ukraine and Europe is not wishful thinking but rests on the successful experience of France and Germany in promoting amity. ...Federal Reserve has engaged in credit and currency swaps with Brazil, Mexico, Singapore, South Korea and others to ease their access to the dollars they need, the European Central Bank must offer such swap arrangements to Europe's noneuro countries so that trade and production processes to continue.

Tymoshenko says Ukraine will get second tranche from IMF

iBYuT.com — 2009-03-02T16:27:42-05:00

Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko has said she is confident that Ukraine will get the second tranche from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). "Ukraine will definitely receive the second tranche from the IMF," the government's press service quoted her as saying on Monday. The IMF suspended payments on a $16.4 billion loan because Ukraine failed to rein in spending and adopt a balanced budget. ... The second one will be worth about $1.8 billion and will help stabilize the hryvnia, which has lost nearly 50 percent in value from its summer high of Hr 4.6/$. Tymoshenko also said that a meeting between President Viktor Yuschenko, Parliamentary Speaker Volodymyr Lytvyn, as well as the leadership of the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) and the Finance Ministry, concerning Ukraine's cooperation with the IMF, was constructive. "The document was considered in a constructive way, and there are currently no obstacles for the president, the premier and the acting heads of the NBU and the finance ministry to sign the letter with the [country's] agreed position on its cooperation with the IMF and send it to the IMF," she said.

Vice premier says strategy for political association, economic integration will be core of new Ukraine-EU agreement

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-27T13:56:47-05:00

"That is why it is important to remember about the privatization of certain facilities, even in this difficult situation," Nemyria said. Speaking about other directions of Ukraine's cooperation with the EU, he stressed the importance of so-called "sector cooperation" and pointed to successful talks held by the country and the EU on the creation of a common airspace. Nemyria said that talks on in the sphere of energy and energy security should end this year with the signing of a respective document. He expressed hope that in June this year, the dialogue on easier travel for Ukrainian citizens in the Schengen zone should also have "specific results." He also said that Ukraine expects practical results from its enhanced policy cooperation with the EU, which is entitled the European Partnership.

Vice premier says IMF could continue talks on second tranche to Ukraine within two weeks

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-26T11:02:07-05:00

"Those who point to the IMF's demand that there should be a zero budget deficit or a deficit-free budget either don't understand the situation or deliberately mislead citizens," he said. Commenting on President Viktor Yuschenko's refusal to sign a joint statement of the Ukrainian authorities to the IMF, which was approved by the government, Nemyria said that "if the president fails to sign this joint statement, the IMF will recognize this with regret, however, this will not serve as a ground to close the program." "They are ready to work with the [Ukrainian] government and the National Bank," he said. He also commented on how much the hryvnia/U.S. dollar exchange rate depends on the IMF loan. "These things are mutually connected," Nemyria said.

Ukrainian government expecting second tranche of IMF loan in March

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-24T15:05:38-05:00

He said that Ukraine is currently cooperating with the IMF in the reconstruction of its banking sector, taxation and budgetary policy and the consistent introduction of the more flexible currency exchange rate. According to the vice-premier, the IMF understands that Ukraine will have budget deficit budget due to the crisis. The size of the deficit will depend on Ukraine's ability to attract additional financing from sources other than the IMF, he said. Nemyria added that the government and the World Bank are holding talks about advancing the date for Ukraine's getting a fourth development policy loan.

Premier Tymoshenko seeks cooperation with Swedish investors to diversify energy sources

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-24T14:59:47-05:00

For his part, Sweden’s BiogazProm board member Bo Ronander declared that Swedish companies are prepared to move into Ukraine to realize various energy-producing projects, notably the biogas and gas made by recycling garbage, the so-called Yellow and Blue Project. Sweden is ready to invest up to 20 billion euro within 2 years, he confirmed. Sweden’s Ambassador to Ukraine Stefan Gullgren informed that the Swedish government had endorsed a program of strategic support for Ukraine along two lines – energy-efficiency and environmental protection. Within this strategy Sweden will render assistance to the tune of 20 million euro to support private investors. The ambassador stressed that transparent rules and reliable laws are most important to attract foreign investments. Addressing the meeting, Yulia Tymoshenko said the Ukrainian parliament had passed the first reading of the law creating a favorable investment climate for domestic and foreign investors.

Ukraine Will Not Default

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-23T10:46:10-05:00

With the timing of the next tranche of the $16.4 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) uncertain and debt rating agencies like Standard and Poor’s warning of a future cut in Ukraine’s credit rating, the government is battling hard to bolster the economy. ...“I do regret that in this dirty presidential campaign, which, unfortunately, has already been started by Ukrainian politicians, they use the word “default” as an additional instrument of influence upon international financial organizations and rating agencies, just to destroy Ukraine. ...In addition, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has announced that it is prepared to invest a total of €500 million ($639.7 million) to help shore up the country’s banks. ..."There's a real possibility that in the coming weeks or months another couple, or maybe more than that, countries will need some support, especially emerging countries," said Dominique Strauss-Kahn, Managing Director of the IMF. ...Ukraine is certainly not alone in feeling the full force of recession and it is expected that the government will downgrade its optimistic 0.4 percent GDP growth rate for 2009. ...Tim Ash, Head of CEEMEA Research, at the Royal Bank of Scotland said, “Clearly, with Poland, Hungary, the Baltic Republics all set to run deficits in excess of 3 percent of GDP, and the UK/Russia set to run deficits of 8-10 percent of GDP, it does not seem unreasonable for Ukraine to run an enlarged budget deficit in 2009.

Zbigniew Brzezinski: US Should Defend Georgia, Ukraine and Azerbaijan

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-22T23:01:16-05:00

We should do everything to defend these countries,” Zbigniew Brzezinski, former US National Security Adviser under Jimmy Carter, said, APA reports quoting Georgian media. Zbigniew Brzezinski, who is foreign policy adviser of the new administration, considers that the United States should strengthen cooperation with Europe. “If Germany’s affair with Russia deepens, it may impede integration in Europe. Germany is a very strong and influential state and unlike Russia drew right conclusions from its history. But other European countries would better tell Germany: make your priorities clear to everybody.”

Tymoshenko: Recapitalization of Ukrainian Banks Could Start Next Week

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-20T22:58:54-05:00

"This important document will help us start recapitalizing the national banking system next week," she said. The Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers, along with the World Bank (WB), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU), has drafted a resolution on a scheme to recapitalize commercial banks, according to Premier Yulia Tymoshenko. "Along with the World Bank, the EBRD, the IMF and the NBU, we have drafted today a resolution by the government on a scheme to recapitalize commercial banks, taking into account, using this recapitalization, the purchase of some shares at national private commercial banks in order to cover the losses of the banks," she said while opening a government meeting on Wednesday. Tymoshenko said that this would help the country's banking system "return to stable work." "This important document will help us start recapitalizing the national banking system next week," she said.

Ukraine Counting On IMF Cooperation

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-17T10:40:59-05:00

He did however indicate that a loan such as the $5 billion being sought by the government could allow a high deficit to be considered. ...Meanwhile, in her meeting with representatives from Japanese corporations (such as Sumitomo, Marubeni, Mitsubishi, Itochu, Sojitz and Mitsui), Ms Tymoshenko praised the Japanese government’s agreement to loan the IMF $100 billion over the next 5 years. According to the premier, this was a most welcome development as the funds could be used to assist countries ravaged by the global financial crisis. ...She noted that democracy was developing successfully in Ukraine and that this, coupled with improved transparency in business dealings, gives Ukraine an advantage over some other countries in the region. ...Projects discussed included privatisation of thermo-nuclear power plants, upgrading metallurgical enterprises, investment in renewable energy initiatives such as solar power and wind turbine plants, and agricultural projects. ...“Engaging in such projects will make Ukraine a stronger, more confident country and would assist us to overcome the global economic crisis,” said Ms Tymoshenko.

Yulia Tymoshenko counts upon further cooperation with IMF

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-13T11:20:53-05:00

Yulia Tymoshenko also added Ukraine counts upon further cooperation with the IMF: “We are convinced the program of cooperation, which has been opened now and on the base of which Ukraine has gained special financial tranches from the IMF, will be furthered,” she stressed. The Prime Minister noted this cooperation would ensure stability of economics of Ukraine and facilitate to drawing investments.

Japanese investment portfolio in Ukrainian economy may amount to USD 16 billion

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-13T11:09:10-05:00

The Prime Minister asked for the representatives of powerful Japanese corporations to organize one team to propose investment into existing and new projects. In particular, she outlined 29 large projects totaling USD 6 billion, as well as 358 projects related to green investments to the sum of USD 10 billion. Yulia Tymoshenko is confident that developing such cooperation, will help Ukraine to overcome the economic crisis and make Ukraine a stronger and more confident country. The head of the Ukrainian Government thanked the representatives of those Japanese corporations that have worked in the Ukrainian market for many years and expressed hope for further cooperation, “We are always open to you.”

Tymoshenko Calls for Unified Gas Prices

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-11T13:55:59-05:00

"I believe that if we will find such a unified approach, we will be able to remove a political aspect in a system of forming the price for gas supplies to European states," said Ms Tymoshenko. Deputy Prime Minister Hryhoriy Nemyria, who accompanied Ms Tymoshenko on her two-day trip to Munich, said that Ukraine was ready to play “a highly constructive role” in working with EU officials to determine future energy policy. ...The Munich Security Conference was attended by 13 heads of state and government, as well as 46 ministers and 6 heads of international organisations. ...He went on to call for greater cooperation with Russia, stressing that he did not see Russia as a military threat to the EU or NATO. ...Whilst in Munich, Ms Tymoshenko held bilateral meetings with international leaders, including the President of the European Commission José Manuel Barroso, US Vice President Joseph Biden, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and World Bank President Robert Zoellick. ...The pair then discussed the need for deep strategic ties in all areas of energy supply, and the importance of a forthcoming international investment conference on the modernisation of Ukraine’s gas transportation system.

Yulia Tymoshenko held a working breakfast with President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-07T11:33:09-05:00

The President of the European Commission thanked for the responsible and constructive position, as well as the decisive role of Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko in resolving the January gas conflict. Jose Manuel Barroso informed Yulia Tymoshenko about his visit to Moscow and the outcomes of talks with President of the Russian Federation Dmitry Medvedev and Prime Minister of Russia Volodymyr Putin. Yulia Tymoshenko emphasized the fundamental importance for Ukraine of the deepening of strategic cooperation with the EU in all directions of energy supply (natural gas, power industry…). The Head of Ukrainian Government and President of the European Commission expressed confidence in success of holding the international investment conference on modernization of gas transportation system, slated for March 23, in Brussels and also stated about its importance. ...Jose Manuel Barroso has invited Yulia Tymoshenko to visit Brussels in the near future.

Ukrainian premier calls on EU to amend energy policy, dismisses loan allegations

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-08T11:56:07-05:00

Commenting on the gas row between Ukraine and Russia that disrupted gas supplies to Europe in January 2009, Tymoshenko said it is not worth constructing gas pipelines bypassing Ukraine. ...She went on to say: "I think that if we find such uniform approaches we will be able to remove the political element from the system of pricing gas supplies to all European countries." Commenting on accusations by the Ukrainian president's representative for international energy security issues, Bohdan Sokolovskyy, that Ukraine is holding secret talks with Moscow on receiving a loan with special conditions, Tymoshenko said that the Ukrainian government has indeed addressed several countries, including the USA, the European Union, Japan, China and Russia, requesting a loan to cover the state budget deficit. She said that these talks are not secret and the remarks spread by mass media are aimed to destabilize the situation in the country. ...Commenting on the remarks by European officials on Ukraine's NATO prospects, Yuliya Tymoshenko said that there are two reasons why Ukraine is not a NATO member yet. ... Ukraine should become involved in the European security system and transfer to more serious economic ties with Europe, the Ukrainian prime minister said.

Biden praised Tymoshenko's role in gas talks

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-07T11:53:11-05:00

Biden said he had considered it essential to meet with the Ukrainian premier during what is his first visit to Europe in his vice-presidential capacity. He credited Ukraine with successes and development prospects that largely determine the region's future. He also commended Tymoshenko's role in settling the Ukrainian-Russian gas row and invited Tymoshenko to visit the United States.

Tymoshenko to participate in the Munich Security Conference

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-06T11:08:50-05:00

Yulia Tymoshenko will also hold a number of bilateral meetings during her visit to Germany, in particular, with U.S. Vice President Joseph R. Biden, President of the World Bank Robert B. Zoellick, President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.

Yulia Tymoshenko met with IMF Director of the European Department Marek Belka

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-06T11:03:36-05:00

The Head of Government assured that agreements envisaged by the Stand-By Arrangement are priority for the Government of Ukraine while taking antirecessionary measures. The sides have agreed to continue the discussion of the Arrangement. Vice Prime Minister of Ukraine for European and International Integration Hryhoriy Nemyria and IMF Mission Chief for Ukraine Ceyla Pazarbasioglu participated in the meeting.

Parliament Again Supports Tymoshenko as Prime Minister

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-05T10:48:58-05:00

Sources from NRCU and DPA Ukraine's parliament again supported Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko when it failed to pass a motion of no-confidence initiated by the pro-Russian Party of Regions. A total of 203 MPs, almost all from the Party of Regions, voted in favor of considering a no confidence motion, but failed to obtain the 226 votes needed to pass. The result was a victory first and foremost for Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, who had predicted the no confidence motion would fail to reach the parliament floor, after her enemies had argued the Tymoshenko government was doomed. This is the second attempt by the opposition to push a vote of non-confidence against Tymoshenko's Cabinet. In July 2008, the Party of Regions tried to dismiss this government but failed with only 174 MPs backing the motion.

Tymoshenko to meet with Biden

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-03T10:47:22-05:00

The conference will be attended by European Union High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy Javier Solana, European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso, French President Nicolas Sarkozy and German Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel. "The Ukrainian prime minister was invited by French President Nicolas Sarkozy to make an official visit to Paris and the premier accepted the invitation. This visit will take place in early March," Nemyria said. The Munich Security Conference will take place on February 6-8 2009

President to Uphold Gas Contract

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-02T10:42:54-05:00

He recently told the Financial Times, “It’s a bad deal” and argues that Ukraine is paying too high a price for gas at a time when its economy is being ravaged by the economic downturn. ...Under the new contract, Ukraine gets a 20 percent discount for gas in 2009, which equates to $360 per thousand cubic metres in the first quarter. However the country will pay far less in successive quarters as gas prices catch up with oil prices that have dropped from $147 a barrel in July 2008, to around $45.50 today. ...Ms Tymoshenko insisted that the new gas deal was favourable to Ukraine, saying that it would pay a lower rate to Gazprom than any other European state. ...Ms Tymoshenko has since announced that Naftohaz has signed a contract with Gazprom to buy 11 billion cubic metres of gas for $153.90 per thousand cubic metres. ...Furthermore, the agreement by both countries to pay market prices for gas supply and transit by 2010, removes a huge source of friction between Russia and Ukraine and is a major step towards normalising relations.

Nemyria: European Union Should Do More To Help Ukraine Overcome Economic Crisis

iBYuT.com — 2009-02-02T10:29:46-05:00

The settlement of the crisis in Ukraine will be decisive not only for it, but also for the whole European projects over the next 20-30 years, he said. "The European Union acknowledges Ukraine's European aspirations, but there is a threat that it does not see Ukraine as an EU member. ...As he put it, against the backdrop of the crisis, the European Union has reviewed a number of traditional approaches, in particular, when Hungary or Latvia received a record high financial aid. "If Europe tries to stabilize the good neighborhood policy, it would be logical if these working instruments also concerned the EU's neighbors, in particular, Ukraine. In his words, in addition to minimizing undesirable social tense on the borders with the European Union, there are purely economic reasons for such support, in particular, considerable commodity turnover between Ukraine and the European Union, particularly in the countries bordering on it. "The European Commission and the European Central Bank should think how to provide Ukraine with mechanisms and instruments of support they [usually] employ.

Will the Real Gazprom CEO Please Stand Up

iBYuT.com — 2009-01-28T12:31:52-05:00

During the January 2006 Russia-Ukraine gas conflict, Gazprom's stock price skyrocketed because investors were impressed when the company pushed for higher export prices at a time of rising energy prices. During the latest gas war, however, Gazprom's stocks plummeted as investors objected when the company treating its customers recklessly by demanding unrealistically high prices at a time of sharply falling energy prices. ...During Putin's news conference with Merkel on Jan. 16 in Berlin, Merkel lectured him like a teacher to a schoolboy, placing the responsibility on Moscow, and Putin ate his teacher's humble pie. ...Putin has been identified as one of RosUkr-Energo's main beneficiaries, but now he has accepted the fact that this middleman will have to be eliminated from gas transactions. ...My suspicion is that his main purpose was to whip up Russian patriotism against Ukraine and enhance support for the government in a time of economic decline. ...Whatever Putin's motive was, he is likely to offer more shocks as the situation grows worse for both Russia and Putin in a deepening economic crisis.

The Gas Wars

iBYuT.com — 2009-01-27T16:28:30-05:00

The calculation for Russian gas should be very simple: you take the price paid by end users like Germany, then deduct the transit fees Russia has to pay to [pipe the gas through] the Czech Republic and Ukraine. ...Why has Ukraine allowed a middleman company, RosUkrEnergo , to make huge profits trading gas between Gazprom and Ukraine over the last three years? ...For years now Prime Minister Tymoshenko has been highlighting how nontransparent the company was, that its corruption led to the highest political levels. ... Everything would have been different now if there were no RosUkrEnergo and its corruption, which extends to politics on both sides [in Russia and Ukraine]. ...The Russians say they have nobody to negotiate prices with in Ukraine because Ukrainians are so divided between President Viktor Yushchenko and Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko. ...The longer each gas war lasts, the more ruined both Gazprom's and Ukraine's reputations are going to be, as the customers are not willing to go into details of our disputes when their homes are cold.

US 'Welcomes' End Of Russia-Ukraine Gas Dispute

iBYuT.com — 2009-01-23T14:34:40-05:00

Both Russian state-run energy giant Gazprom and its Ukrainian counterpart Naftogaz confirmed that gas flows had resumed after they signed a 10-year contract on Monday to end their dispute. "This incident underscores the need for transparent, market-oriented arrangements for the sale and shipment of natural gas and the importance of diversifying energy supplies," Wood added in a statement. "The United States stands ready to support European Union efforts to enhance its energy security." The crisis erupted on January 1 when Russia cut gas to Ukraine's domestic market over unpaid debts and demands for a higher price in 2009. It escalated six days later, when all supplies for Europe transiting through Ukraine were halted, with Moscow accusing Kiev of stealing gas. Ukraine vehemently denied the allegation.

Gas Deal Signed With Russia

iBYuT.com — 2009-01-20T13:56:49-05:00

In 2008, Ukraine paid $179.50 per thousand cubic metres of gas, which is slightly less than half the current market price for European countries. ... A higher rate will be paid in the first quarter but this will decrease as the price of gas catches up with the price of oil. ...The new deal also removes intermediaries from the supply of natural gas to Ukraine; something Prime Minister Tymoshenko has long campaigned for. The agreement also maintains Ukraine’s sovereignty over its gas transit system, which is a prized national asset that has long been coveted by Gazprom. ...“We seek to develop closer energy ties to Europe,” said Hryhoriy Nemyria, Deputy Prime Minister responsible European integration, “energy security, transparency and stability of supply are fundamental tenets underpinning future energy cooperation.” ...“Ukraine’s prime minister has again affirmed her pragmatic approach in terms of dealing with Russia,” said Tim Ash, a senior emerging markets banker for the Royal Bank of Scotland.

Naftogaz and Gazprom sign a 10-year contract of supplies and transit of Russian gas

iBYuT.com — 2009-01-19T13:55:41-05:00

Government Press Service NJSC Naftogaz of Ukraine and Gazprom Public Corporation have signed a long-term contract for 2009-2019 of the supplies of Russian natural gas to Ukraine and its transit to the European Union countries. From Ukrainian side the contract was inked by Head of executive board of the NJSC Naftogaz of Ukraine Oleh Dubyna, from Russian side – Head of executive board of the Gazprom Public Corporation Oleksii Miller. The deal was signed in the presence of Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko and Head of Government of the Russian Federation Volodymyr Putin.

Yulia Tymoshenko and President of the EC J. Barroso discussed the delivery of Russian gas to EU countries on the phone

iBYuT.com — 2009-01-19T13:54:05-05:00

Government Press Service Today Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko had a telephone conversation with President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso. The interlocutors discussed issues on the delivery of gas from the Russian Federation for its transit to the European Union countries. Jose Manuel Barroso expressed hope for the soonest signing of relevant contracts between the NJSC Naftogaz of Ukraine and Gazprom Public Corporation, in accordance with agreements achieved between Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko and Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Volodymyr Putin.

Bulgarian Prime Minister Stanishev Thanks Tymoshenko For Constructive Position In Gas Conflict With Russia

iBYuT.com — 2009-01-19T13:49:37-05:00

They also discussed the signing of the relevant contracts by the Naftohaz Ukrainy national joint-stock company and the Russian gas monopoly Gazprom. As Ukrainian News earlier reported, on Monday, Tymoshenko is paying an official visit in Russia to sign the contracts on the gas supplies and transit to Europe. On the night of January 17-18, Tymoshenko and Putin agreed to reduce the natural gas price for Ukraine for 2009 by 20% and retain the gas transit fees.

Statement by the Prime Minister of Ukraine ahead of her visit to Moscow

iBYuT.com — 2009-01-16T17:39:11-05:00

What gives me confidence that the negotiations on gas supply will be finalized shortly, is the existence of the October Memorandum between the Russian and Ukrainian Prime Ministers, as well as gas reserves accumulated in underground storage. The latter provides a firm base from which to negotiate and has already permitted us to hold out for several weeks without using, for our own needs, a single – and I emphasize a single! – cubic metre of anybody’s gas. ...I confirm once again that, on the 30th of December, all mutually beneficial terms for the supply of gas to Ukraine and transit to Europe were agreed at the level of the Prime Ministers of Ukraine and Russia. But during the last two days of the year, those political forces within Ukraine that have corruption links to the shadowy middleman, RosUkrEnergo, took the opportunity to ruin the signing of the contract, and sabotage the entire painstakingly constructed process of negotiation. ...In this context, the latest statements by some officials from the Presidential Secretariat aimed at me, do nothing to strengthen the position of the Ukrainian Government in its negotiations with Russia, and do not serve to enhance the image of Ukraine in Europe. ...The main principles of the negotiations will be the following: no middlemen; direct relations between Naftogaz and Gazprom; mutually beneficial prices for gas and transit; no talks about possible privatization or any other forms of transfer of the Ukrainian gas transportation system; all Russian gas directed to the European countries will be, to a single metre, given to Europe.

Tymoshenko takes over OU-PSD Faction

iBYuT.com — 2009-01-16T07:48:22-05:00

Martynenko and Tretiakov, are businessmen who were once very loyal to Yushchenko and funded Our Ukraine from its launch as Yushchenko's party in 2001. Their defection to Tymoshenko is a sign of their frustration at Baloga's control over the president and the resultant strategic mistakes made by the president that have severely reduced his popularity. ...Zhvannia fell foul of the president last year when there was a politically inspired attempt to strip him of his Ukrainian citizenship after he reused to toe the presidential line in the May 2008 Kyiv city council pre-term elections. ...Yushchenko will enter the December presidential elections with a very low popularity of 2.4% (according to a January Democratic Initiatives poll) and a minute political support base composed of Our Ukraine (one of the 9 parties in OU-PSD) and United Centre. ...Firstly, Our Ukraine, headed until recently by Vyacheslav Kyrylenko, is opposed to a grand coalition with the Party of Regions while United Ukraine supports a grand coalition. Secondly, Kyrylenko's group in Parliament does not support a vote of no confidence in the Tymoshenko government while United Centre is aligned with the Party of Regions in supporting the governments removal.

Ukraine and Russia Agree Gas Talks on Saturday

iBYuT.com — 2009-01-15T15:22:21-05:00

The breakthrough comes after mounting pressure from the EU for the two countries to resolve the dispute and resume the full flow of gas to European states. ...Naftohaz Ukrainy, quickly complained that insufficient gas was being supplied by Russia causing low pipeline pressures, and that Gazprom deliberately sought to transport gas via an unworkable route that would have meant cutting off domestic consumers. ..."I would like to convey a very clear message to Moscow and Kyiv: if the agreement sponsored by the EU is not honoured as a matter of urgency, I will advise European companies to take this matter to the courts and call on member states to engage in a concerted action to find alternative ways of energy supply and transit." ...This constructive role was underlined last week when a delegation to Brussels led by Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister Hryhoriy Nemyria and Mr Dubyna, submitted a proposal to Mr Barosso. It contained provisions for ending the dispute and providing greater transparency; the removal of the intermediary RosUkrEnergo and granted access to EU observers to monitor Ukraine’s gas transit system. ...“Saturday’s talks provide both parties with the opportunity to win back trust and find mutually agreeable terms to ensure gas supplies resume to Europe in full,” said Mr Nemyria, “from there we can move forward to agree an acceptable gas price for 2009.”

EU redoubles efforts to restore flow of gas

iBYuT.com — 2009-01-10T15:20:25-05:00

The impasse left the pipelines closed since Russia will not resume shipments because it says it cannot trust Ukraine not to divert the westbound gas for its own use. ...Each side blames the other for escalating a crisis that began after the breakdown of talks over the supply of gas from Russia to Ukraine. ...He was due to continue to Moscow today in the hope of securing a deal before the gas shortages, which are already affecting 18 countries, worsen as reserves decline. ...Yesterday, the first team of about 20 EU observers, made up of senior EU officials and experts from large gas companies, also arrived in Ukraine and started to work at the central gas dispatching point in Kiev, where they will monitor the flows on screens. "This means that all the conditions agreed between the leaders of the EU, Russia and Ukraine are in place for the immediate restart of gas supplies from Russia that are destined for European customer," said the European Commission. Dmitri Medvedev, the Russian president, said: "Of course we are interested that gas transit should be resumed immediately . . . but this can only be done after signing of the documents . . .

Interview: Gas as soon as today: Hryhoriy Nemyria

iBYuT.com — 2009-01-10T15:21:51-05:00

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said yesterday talking to the western media in Moscow that Russian gas has not been able to make it through Ukraine to Europe and that’s why it had to shut off supplies. ...It is important to assess why is it happening and what has been learned from the first gas war of January 2006 which lasted only 3 days; now we have 9 days so far. ...In the same month, as a follow-up, Dubina and Miller, signed an agreement (see document below) in Moscow about the principles of the long-term cooperation in the gas sector, which develop further the points of the memorandum, make some parameters in terms of the technical matters, and establishes as a deadline, the 1st of November, until which both sides agree to finalize negotiation and sign a contract. ...In light of the crisis that has escalated in recent days, would Ukraine now accept a gas price closer to USD 250 per 1,000 cubic meters that Gazprom proposed last month if the Russian company put it back on the table? ...When Gazprom gave us the offer of $250, which is an increase from the current $179.5, while insisting that the transit fee is frozen at the current level, namely $1.7 (per 1,000 cubic meters across 100 km), defacto means that Naftogaz, for 2009 would be subsidizing Gazprom for transiting the Russian gas through the territory of Ukraine. ...The change of paradigm has to do with the fact that Ukraine will be responsible, and will be in contract with the EU companies for the transit, and not be dug into a standoff with Gazprom which is a monopolist.

Gazprom’s Gas Price Shell Game

iBYuT.com — 2009-01-09T07:25:49-05:00

During the current “gas war” between Ukraine and Gazprom, Gazprom managers and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin have managed to quote four different prices for gas in less than a month ranging from $250 to $450 for 1,000 cubic meters (tcm). ...“If transit prices are added to this price, the price of gas for Ukraine will be $380 per one thousand cubic meters,” the prime minister said, a far cry from the $450 he had quoted a day earlier. When the Ukrainian side rejected the $250 price, Miller weighed in again and stated that since Ukraine had rejected a reasonable offer (one that had little in common with the wellhead price for gas in Russia), it would now be forced to pay $418. ...Yet, the former Ukrainian deputy foreign minister responsible for energy negotiations with Russia, Oleksandr Chaliy, told the BBC’s Ukrainian Service on January 6 that German companies buying gas from Russia had paid $290 per tcm in 2008. ...The answer is unknown because of Gazprom’s non-transparent pricing policy, the use of murky intermediaries, and the self inflicted silence of its customers who refuse to disclose at what price and for what political payback they purchase Russian gas. ...By first artificially raising gas prices and then attempting to raise prices even higher by cutting off most gas deliveries in the middle of a freezing winter, their hope might be to create a panic-driven market in which spot prices for Russian gas would go through the roof.

Naftogaz, Gazprom holding direct talks - Ukraine

iBYuT.com — 2009-01-08T09:12:43-05:00

Published in Reuters The heads of Russian gas firm Gazprom and Ukraine's Naftogaz are holding direct talks aimed at solving a dispute that has cut Russian gas supplies to Europe, Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister Grygoriy Nemyria said on Thursday. The talks are being held by Oleh Dubyna, head of Ukraine gas company Naftogaz and Alexei Miller, chief executive of Gazprom. "Mr Dubyna and Mr Miller are currently talking to each other. That is a good sign," Nemyria told the European Parliament.

Gazprom Stops Gas Deliveries to Ukraine—What Next?

iBYuT.com — 2009-01-06T10:14:00-05:00

RosUkrEnergo, which was made a middleman for gas supplies to Ukraine at Gazprom’s insistence in January 2006, has been the center of a continuing conflict between Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko and Gazprom. ...On January 1 Oleh Dubyna, the head of Naftohaz Ukrainy, offered to buy Russian gas for $235 contingent on a price increase for transporting Russian gas to Europe from the current $1.70 per 1,000 cubic meters per 100 kilometers to $1.80 (RIA Novosti, January 1). ...These highly lucrative opaque companies, alleged to be the brain child of former Gazprom deputy CEO Yuriy Komarov, do not own any gas fields or pipelines, yet Gazprom has insisted on their inclusion in the Ukrainian market since 2002, despite the fact that their role as intermediaries has never been clearly explained and the people involved in these schemes have admitted to ties with Russian organized crime figures. ...If the gas shutoff succeeds in discrediting the Tymoshenko government (Yushchenko’s approval ratings are so low that the gas situation would have no impact on him) then the pro-Russian opposition Party of Regions could find itself getting a needed boost in popularity. ...Gazprom emissaries and Western PR companies hired by Gazprom have been ordered to explain Russia’s side of the conflict and to demonize the Ukrainian leadership, while Russian media reports continuously repeat unsubstantiated reports that Ukraine is once again stealing Russian gas. ...If the Russian strategy is both to discredit the Tymoshenko government and to keep RUE in place, the European outcry might be loud and bitterly anti-Russian as was the case in January 2006 when Gazprom cut off gas to Ukraine for the same alleged reasons as in January 2009.

Ukraine Rejects Gas Theft Claim and Calls on EU

iBYuT.com — 2009-01-05T10:13:40-05:00

Gazprom offered Ukraine a 2009 gas price of $250 per thousand cubic metres, which amounts to a 40 percent hike over the 2008 price of $179.50 per thousand cubic metres. ...Gazprom reduced its offer to $235 per thousand cubic metres but has since dug in its heels, maintaining that Ukraine pay a market price of $418. ...“Ukraine is open to negotiation not intimidation,” said Hryhoriy Nemyria, Deputy Prime Minister responsible for European integration, “and will do its utmost to guarantee no disruption in supply to our European neighbours.” However, President Yushchenko’s envoy on energy security, Bohdan Sokolovsky, warned that although Ukraine will continue to ship gas to Europe, disruptions may occur in “10 to 15 days” unless Ukraine’s gas is pumped along with supplies to Europe. ...On Saturday, a Naftohaz official confirmed that Russia had actually reduced the amount of gas being shipped to Europe through Ukraine’s pipelines by 21 million cubic metres a day to 284.5 million cubic metres. ...Tammy Lynch, a Senior Fellow at Boston University’s Institute for the Study of Conflict, Ideology and Policy, writing for the Huffington Post, said: “forcing Ukraine to negotiate under the distress of having its gas turned off is a tactic that smacks of blackmail and intimidation.”