Ukraine approves Int’l Monetary Fund-backed budget of austerity
The budget was passed after an acrimonious all-night debate and was finally approved by 263 lawmakers, about 40 more than the minimum required number.
The cash-strapped and war-scarred country badly needs aid and this move is crucial in unlocking the release of a delayed US$1.7 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund and other Western aid.