To ensure the implementation of the NSDC decisions on counteracting the spread of novel coronavirus in Ukraine, the Cabinet of Ministers at an extraordinary meeting on March 14 adopted an order to temporarily suspend the crossing of the state border aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19 in the territory of the country.

The document stipulates for the following:

- temporarily close starting from 00:00 March 17, 2020, to April 3, border checkpoints for regular international passenger services (with the exception of a number of categories of citizens);

- temporarily ban starting from 00:00 March 16, 2020, to April 3, crossing the state border for entry to Ukraine for foreigners and stateless persons (with the exception of a number of categories of citizens).

The document also contains a commission for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to inform about the mentioned restrictions the diplomatic corps of foreign states in Ukraine as well as foreign diplomatic institutions.

Besides, at the meeting, the Government authorized the Deputy Minister of Health, Chief Sanitary and Epidemiological Doctor of Ukraine to exercise certain powers. Namely: regarding conducting epidemiological surveillance (control), prevention of the emergence and spread of infectious diseases, localization and elimination of outbreaks and epidemics. Moreover, a commission was given to designate authorized persons to perform the functions of the Chief State Sanitary Doctors in the regions.

The decision was adopted taking into account the objections.