Yanukovych finds understanding in Moscow's Kremlin

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a meeting with the head of Ukraine Viktor Yanukovych on Tuesday in Moscow, during which they discussed a number of issues in Russian-Ukrainian policy. In particular, the politicians touched upon the problems of a new gas agreement, which, according to Yanukovych, Ukrainian producers were expecting "with great anticipation."

In the presence of the two presidents, Gazprom and Naftogaz of Ukraine signed an addendum to the contract for the supply of natural gas for 2009-2019, according to which the Russian side would supply gas at 268.5 dollars per one thousand cubic meters. Currently, the price exceeds $400.

Vladimir Putin said that the decision was made " to support the Ukrainian budget" and was temporary within the scope of long-term arrangements. In addition, the Russian government decided to invest $15 billion from the National Welfare Fund in Ukrainian securities.

The Russian President also referred to the strengthening of cooperation in the field of energy, engineering, aerospace, aviation, shipbuilding and other industries.

The volume of trade between the two countries has been declining recently. Last year, the figure fell to 11 percent, and this year - by 14.5 percent. Meanwhile, Yanukovych said that Russian and Ukrainian companies can already produce the products that will be peculiar for their "new quality".