IMF approves $8.1 billion loan for Ukraine, deputy prime minister announces first tranche

She stressed that in the fifth year of the full-scale war, amid continued Russian attacks on energy infrastructure, guaranteed financial support from partners is critical for the country’s stability.

"The IMF-backed program is part of a broader financing framework designed to cover Ukraine’s projected state budget deficit of $136.5 billion over four years," the statement said.

Svyrydenko added that the program oversees continued reforms that have helped ensure macroeconomic and financial stability in recent years.

The new IMF program is also described as an anchor for wider international financial assistance, including up to €90 billion in EU support.

According to the government, this also includes funding from G7 countries, international financial institutions, and reduced debt servicing through debt relief mechanisms.

"Partners confirmed the continuation of the current moratorium on servicing official debt and their readiness to complete restructuring once the situation stabilizes," Svyrydenko said.

Ukraine's economy

A week earlier, Svyrydenko said the IMF had dropped several previous conditions tied to the new $8.1 billion program, including requirements related to VAT rules for sole proprietors, parcel duties, taxation of digital platforms, and the military levy.

Earlier reporting suggested that access to IMF and EU financing provides temporary relief, but Ukraine could face challenges meeting program requirements as early as late March, potentially leading to talks on easing conditions.

A detailed analysis is available in RBC-Ukraine’s report.