Ukrainian businessmen protested against the building Verkhovna Rada in the center of Kiev against the introduction of new quarantine restrictions in the country due to the coronavirus, reports RIA Novosti .
The rally was organized by the Ukrainian movement SaveFOP. Businessmen are unhappy with the government’s decision to impose a lockdown in the country due to the pandemic from January 8 to 24 and other anti-coronavirus restrictions. They are also protesting against a law requiring small businesses to install cash registers.
The action is being supervised by Ukrainian security officials. They cordoned off the Rada building and warned of possible traffic restrictions in the center of the Ukrainian capital. “In order to prevent any wrongdoing and to ensure the peaceful conduct of the rallies, law enforcement officers have strengthened security measures in the government quarter,” the press service of the Kiev National Police Department said in a statement.
Previously government of Ukraine introduced enhanced quarantine measures due to coronavirus from 8 to 24 January. At this time, the work of all entertainment establishments will be prohibited in the country, markets, schools, universities and cultural institutions will be closed. In turn, the emergency situation in the country was extended until February 28 due to the pandemic.
Ukrainian economists called such a decision by the authorities a step to “strangle” citizens and business. They believe that the January lockdown will finish off the service sector and trade, and people who have been left without jobs and salaries will not be able to pay the increased utility rates.