Ukraine’s public finances remain under strain, and some of the planned international funding has yet to arrive.
Prime Minister said this, according to Serhii Koretskyi.
One of the reasons is Ukraine’s failure to meet some of its commitments to international partners.
“The situation with public finances remains difficult. Some of the planned international funding has not yet arrived. In particular, because Ukraine did not manage to fulfil some of the commitments it undertook to international partners,” the head of government stressed.
At the same time, the government is introducing strict austerity measures and setting priorities for public spending. First and foremost, defence, pensions and social benefits will be funded, as well as salaries for teachers, doctors and other public-sector employees.
Non-essential expenditure is to be postponed until the necessary funding is received from international partners. This includes, in particular, new construction, reconstructions and major repairs that are not critical, as well as public realm improvements—developing parks, squares and fountains, and relaying paving stones.
“We will certainly do all of this, but for now all resources must be directed to critically important areas,” Koretskyi said.
The Prime Minister also urged local authorities to set priorities in their own budgets and limit spending that is not currently a top priority.
“For its part, the government is doing everything necessary to meet its commitments and secure the planned international funding. We are working jointly with parliament. And what matters here is responsible work by MPs from all factions and groups,” the Prime Minister added.