Information on the above-mentioned topics could not be found among the sources consulted by the DIRB. However, for a reference to the presence of mafias in Ukrainian ports, please consult the third to last paragraph of the first page of the attachment.

This Response was prepared after researching publicly accessible information currently available to the DIRB within time constraints. This Response is not, and does not purport to be, conclusive as to the merit of any particular claim to refugee status or asylum. Please find below the list of sources consulted in researching this Information Request.

American Metal Market [n.p.]. 14 October 1994. Magda Abu-Fadil. "Mafias Dictate Lebanon Rebuilding with Ukrainian Steel." (NEXIS)

Amnesty International Report. Yearly.

CSCE Digest [Washington]. Monthly.

DIRB country file on Ukraine.

DIRB databases.

Foreign Broadcast Information Service (FBIS) Daily Reports.

News from Helsinki Watch [New York]. Monthly.

Transition [Prague]. Twice monthly.

Uncaptive Minds [Washington]. Quarterly.

On-line search of media sources.

Unsuccessful attempts to contact oral sources.