KIEV, Feb. 9 – Political instability, seasonal increases in prices of dairy products, fruits and vegetables and a rise in the prices of fuel and lubricants were the key factors fueling a rise in inflation in January to 1.8% from 0.9% in December 2009, the Economy Ministry said.

"January is one of the months that have the largest inflation pace during the year. January 2010 was not an exception to the rule... Despite the creation of additional powerful stimuli to stir up the price pace on the consumer market during the [period of] political instability, the situation was under control," reads the report.