IMF assessed Ukraine's financial needs at $20 billion higher: what does it mean

The International Monetary Fund stated that Ukraine may need an additional $10-20 billion more than the government previously thought. The conflict in assessments arose during IMF staff meetings in Kyiv last week, where external financing for the next two years was discussed. Resolving this discrepancy will be key before the fund considers Ukraine's request for a new lending program.

• The government estimates the need at $37.5 billion over the next two years
• The IMF believes that the figure may reach $47.5-57.5 billion
• The final amount is expected to be agreed upon next week during further consultations

However, Ukraine is facing difficulties in obtaining additional assistance. Most of the funds from the current IMF package of $15.5 billion have already been spent, and the program aimed at ending the war concludes in 2027. Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko hopes to receive approval for a new program from the IMF board of directors by the end of the year.

Challenges are mounting in attracting additional support from key partners. U.S. contributions, as the largest donor at the beginning of the conflict, have decreased after Donald Trump's return to power, making the European Union the main source of financial support.

Meetings between Ukrainian representatives and the IMF demonstrate significant differences in assessments of the country’s financial needs for the next two years. Ukraine may need an additional $10-20 billion more than the government calculated. Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko is working towards securing approval for a new lending program from the IMF, while the Ukrainian side faces difficulties in attracting additional financial resources from its partners.