There has been planned a gradual quarantine exit in Ukraine. The first relaxation measures are scheduled for May 11. Further easing of the restrictive measures will take place as soon as the situation with the spread of the infection and recovery proves favorable.

In particular, the Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal said this in an interview with the Ukrainian Radio on Tuesday, May 5.

"Throughout 18 days in Ukraine, there has been an even situation with an increase in the number of infected, which gives us the opportunity to begin the first stage of easing quarantine restrictions on May 11. Almost all the stores will open, except for those areas in the shopping centres that cause mass gatherings - entertainment areas, children's play zones, cinemas and food courts will be closed. Public transport will still operate in its current regime. However, city heads can decide to increase its number and change the operation schedule," explained the Prime Minister.

Moreover, Denys Shmyhal announced the start of the so-called adaptive quarantine on May 11. "If there are outbreaks of disease, the state as well as regional commissions on technogenic and environmental safety and the emergencies will adopt appropriate decisions to strengthen quarantine measures in particular regions, cities or villages," said Denys Shmyhal.

The Head of Government commented on the situation with the early and unauthorized lifting of quarantine restrictions in some cities of Ukraine. According to the Prime Minister, successful decentralization reform is making local governments stronger and more sustainable. But this does not mean that the system of public administration in Ukraine should be destroyed.

"We must not endanger people's lives and health because of their political ambitions. Therefore, when we have a law or a decision of the Government, no one is allowed to violate it. City heads must also comply with the laws and regulations of the state to ensure we have an organized society, organized public administration. Especially when it comes to the lives and health of hundreds of thousands and millions of Ukrainians," the Prime Minister stressed and called on city heads to demonstrate responsibility.

Apart from that, the Prime Minister commented on the situation with Ukrainian labour migrants. According to him, the current global crisis has proved workers from Ukraine being in great demand. The mission of Ukraine as a state is to defend the interests of our fellow citizens and guarantee Ukrainians to have decent working conditions in Europe. This is the first time this issue has been raised at this level. We are talking about insurance, official wages, accommodation, conditions for returning home. And most importantly - treatment, including in the case of coronavirus infection.

"When we are accused of talking about slavery, slavery is when Ukrainians who used to get to work abroad, were living in barracks, in basements, did not receive an official salary, were fired or not provided basic conditions for social and medical protection. They found themselves trapped. Today, for the first time, we have the opportunity to defend the interests of our workers in the European labor market," summed up the Prime Minister.