Ukraine expects final IMF deal approval in coming weeks

Ukraine expects its new $8.2 billion programme with the International Monetary Fund to be formally approved in weeks, its debt chief has told Reuters, a

telegraphed but symbolic step, with the war with Russia about to grind into a fifth year.



The agreement, which is set to replace an existing $15.6 billion IMF facility, will help Kyiv maintain economic stability and public spending against what is expected to be a near $140 billion budget shortfall over the next few years.



In an interview with Reuters, Ukraine's long-serving debt management head, Yuriy Butsa, said formal IMF Board sign-off on the money should come very soon.

"I would expect it in a matter of weeks," Butsa said during an interview in London where he was attending meetings. "I think February is still doable in terms of a timeline."



The IMF declined to comment on the potential timing of a formal approval.