IMF sees large shortfall in Ukraine financing, Bloomberg says
Photo: IMF says Ukraine underestimates its needs by $20 billion (flickr.com/imfphoto)
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) believes that Ukraine’s financing needs for 2026 and 2027 could be significantly higher than Kyiv currently projects, Bloomberg reports.
According to a source, the difference in estimates emerged during the latest IMF mission visit. Resolving these discrepancies is crucial before the Fund considers Ukraine’s request for a new credit program.
If the IMF’s estimates are correct, Ukraine may require additional financial support of several billion dollars per year as it continues to repel Russian military aggression. With the war now in its fourth year and no end in sight, concerns are growing that Ukraine may struggle to meet rising military needs.
Currently, Kyiv sticks to its forecast, which calls for up to $37.5 billion over two years. Bloomberg reports that the IMF estimates the total could be $10–20 billion higher.
The sides are expected to agree on the amount next week. The Ukrainian government and Ministry of Finance declined to comment, the outlet added.
Earlier, it was reported that the IMF mission had completed its work in Ukraine. According to the Ministry of Finance, the parties discussed the need to prepare a new program, with dialogue expected to continue in the coming weeks.
The mission arrived in early September to discuss budget plans for 2026. Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko requested a new credit program from the Fund. A decision is expected by the end of the year.
Earlier, the National Bank of Ukraine Governor Andriy Pyshnyy told RBC-Ukraine that the format of the current program no longer fully meets today’s needs.
