Ukraine on Wednesday banned foreigners from entering the country for one month after health officials registered a record increase in coronavirus infections. The ex-Soviet country of 42 million people reported a record daily increase in new infections on Saturday with 2,328 positive tests. Officials have repeatedly threatened to reintroduce anti-virus restrictions that were eased in May and June, saying citizens were ignoring social distancing rules and other preventative measures. The government announced on Wednesday it would close its borders to foreigners beginning Saturday until September 28. "Considering the level of infections, we need to protect our citizens and show responsibility to our foreign partners," Prime Minister Denys Shmygal said. Ukraine previously banned foreigners from entering the country from mid-March through late June. People who hold residence permits in Ukraine, as well as members of international and humanitarian delegations are exempt from the ban. Long-distance truck drivers will also still be allowed to enter the country. Lockdown measures were eased in May and June with the resumption of public transport and the reopening of parks, outdoor cafes and beauty salons. Former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko recently contracted the virus and her staff have not confirmed media reports that she has been hospitalised was in a serious condition. Ukraine has reported more than 110,000 cases and 2,354 fatalities. dg/jbr/pma