It is reported that Ukraine is preparing for a spell of extremely cold weather during the next 10 days and has already increased imports of Russian natural gas despite earlier assurances that such imports will be reduced.

President Mr Viktor Yanukovych instructed the government to make sure the freezing temperatures won’t disrupt the economy and the people.

He added that "God forbid that the people find themselves in a difficult situation. If this happens, the government will react in a systemic, serious way."

(Sourced from www.ukrainianjournal.com)