Kyiv: Ukraine and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) discussed the preparation of a new program Thursday to provide expanded financing for the war-torn country for 2026-2029. In a statement on US social media company X, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he discussed the issue with IMF Director Kristalina Georgieva, who arrived in Kyiv earlier Thursday on her first visit since 2023.

According to Anadolu Agency, the new program will aim to support macro-financial stability, finance critical defense and social needs, and rebuild Ukraine after the ongoing conflict. President Zelenskyy expressed appreciation for the IMF's readiness to continue supporting Ukraine and commended Georgieva for her attention to Ukraine and the programs that help strengthen the country's economy and resilience. He highlighted the challenges posed by Russian strikes and severe winter weather on the nation's energy sector and critical infrastructure.

The Ukrainian Presidential Office's statement following the talks noted Georgieva's commitment to the new financing program, which has been under development since last fall. Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko also expressed gratitude for Georgieva's personal engagement in supporting Ukraine, as they inspected damage from Russian strikes at a major energy facility in Kyiv.