Zelensky asks IMF, World Bank to give 'financial shield' to Ukraine

MOSCOW. April 18 (Interfax) - The International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank and partner countries should provide a "financial shield" to Ukraine, President Vladimir Zelensky said.

"We need sufficient financial support. We need an efficient financial shield," Ukrainian media quoted Zelensky as saying at a World Bank ministerial roundtable in support of Ukraine on Wednesday.

"Unfortunately, this year our minimum budget needs are not yet closed, and we count on your support - of all our partner countries, all international institutions which are involved, and particularly on the support of the United States, on the relevant decision of the Congress - a strong decision that will reflect American leadership," he said.

"We have to start planning the year of 2025 already now. Reconstruction is needed. We need a new economic capacity. And for that, we need your further support - both direct support for the reconstruction and restoration of our energy system and instruments for business such as export financing for supplies of your equipment and technologies and insurance of your business investments by your export credit agencies," Zelensky said.