IMF Chief Georgieva Visits Ukraine Amid Economic Turmoil

IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva makes a discreet visit to Kyiv amid Ukraine's economic struggles and ongoing war. Her discussions focus on Ukraine's urgent financial needs and assessing progress on a $8.2 billion lending program. The visit follows recent state of emergency measures in the energy sector by President Zelenskiy.

IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva arrived in Kyiv for high-level discussions as Ukraine braces for the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion. Having been greeted warmly by Central bank chief Andriy Pyshnyi, she laid flowers at a war memorial and met separately with Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko and Pyshnyi.

Georgieva's unannounced visit highlights pressing economic needs as Ukraine deals with power disruptions and night-time temperatures plunging to minus 20 degrees Celsius. Intensifying these challenges is the ongoing conflict that has severely impacted the nation's economy. The visit follows President Zelenskiy's emergency energy measures.

Discussions with Ukrainian leaders focus on the $8.2 billion IMF lending program, essential to closing Ukraine's financial shortfalls, expected to hit $136.5 billion by 2029. Further financial collaboration with the European Union, including a $105 billion loan, is pivotal as the IMF and Ukraine outline further economic and legislative measures.

(With inputs from agencies.)