IMF Raises Concern Over Ukraine's Access to $8.1 Billion Aid, Bloomberg News Reports

IMF raises concern over Ukraine's access to $8.1 billion aid, Bloomberg News reports

IMF's Concerns and Ukraine's Legislative Challenges

Stalled Legislative Measures Threaten Aid Access

March 17 (Reuters) - The International Monetary Fund has raised concerns that Ukraine may be unable to tap its $8.1 billion aid as lawmakers stall on measures to release the funding, Bloomberg News said on Tuesday, citing an IMF representative familiar with the matter.

Parliamentary Deadline and Required Amendments

The Ukrainian parliament has until the end of this month to pass a package of legislative amendments that would raise taxes on businesses and households under a four-year loan program approved in February, the report said. 

Recent Disbursement and Ongoing Conflict

Last month, the IMF disbursed $1.5 billion to help keep the government running, as its war against Russia's invasion drags into a fifth year.

Verification and Official Responses

Reuters could not immediately verify the report. The IMF did not immediately respond to Reuters' request for comment. 

Upcoming Meetings Between IMF and Ukrainian Lawmakers

The IMF's staff, led by mission chief Gavin Gray, is set to meet Ukrainian lawmakers starting from March 18, added the source, who sought anonymity to discuss private talks, the agency said. 

(Reporting by Mihika Sharma in Bengaluru; Editing by Christopher Cushing and Clarence Fernandez)