Naftogaz, Ukrainian Railways, Ukrhydroenergo, another 3 companies to pay at least 50% of dividends to national budget in advance

MOSCOW. Feb 28 (Interfax) - Naftogaz of Ukraine, Ukrainian Railways, Ukrhydroenergo and another three joint stock companies are due to pay at least 50% of the 2023 annual dividends to the state shareholder by February 29, Ukrainian media said, citing the government decision made on Tuesday.

"The government, as a shareholder, has decided to assign some of the dividends from companies under its management to the national budget. The reason is the need to replenish the national budget under martial law and to fund public expenses," media quoted Deputy Economy Minister Alexei Sobolev as saying.

That will bring 3 billion hryvni to the national budget in February, the Finance Ministry said.

Media noted that the decision concerned Ukrainian Energy Machines, Nizhnednestrovakaya HPP, and Ukrainian Defense Industry joint stock companies.