The International Monetary Fund (IMF)
has approved a $17.1bn (£10.1bn) bailout for Ukraine to help the country's
beleaguered economy.
The loan comes amid heightened military and political tension between Ukraine
and neighboring Russia. The loan is dependent on strict economic reforms, including raising taxes and
energy prices. The money will be released over two years, with the first installment of
$3.2bn available immediately.
The head of the IMF, Christine Lagarde, said the IMF would check regularly to
ensure the Ukrainian government followed through on its commitments.
In March Ukraine put up gas prices by 50% in an effort to secure the
bailout. The government has also agreed to freeze the minimum wage.
