Good afternoon, esteemed colleagues, dear Ukrainians.
Ukraine feels the solid support of the world in our struggle for freedom and independence. Since the outbreak of the full-scale war, we have received over $23 billion of international financial assistance. Of these, $4.8 billion from the European Union and $8.5 billion from the United States.
These resources will be used to finance critically important budget expenditures. In particular, payments to state employees, pensioners, IDPs, recipients of subsidies, we support the capacity of hromadas.
Today, during a visit to Kyiv, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission Valdis Dombrovskis assured that next week Ukraine will receive another tranche of macro-financial assistance from the EU in the amount of EUR 2.5 billion. And another one for EUR 500 million – in December. We are grateful to the European partners for consistent solidarity with Ukraine.
Canada has made an important step to help address Ukraine’s needs. The Government of Canada has already issued five-year government bonds worth CAD 500 million. Now, through the purchase of sovereign bonds for Ukraine, everyone can contribute to the strengthening of our state. Thus, Canadians are investing in our victory, and the Government of Canada guarantees investors the payment of interest. We thank our Canadian friends for such an initiative and for their faith in our future.
In the coming year, the support of partner countries and international financial institutions will be crucial for us.
We are counting on a large package of financial assistance from the European Union in amount of EUR 18 billion in 2023. This will cover the budget deficit related to necessary non-defense expenditures.
We also expect a positive decision of the US Congress to allocate $37.7 billion. This includes, in particular, direct budget support, rapid recovery, energy security and expenditures for other purposes.
The third component of successful financing of the Budget is a new program of cooperation with the IMF, which we are working to launch next year.
We are also grateful to all states that have once again strengthened our defense capabilities within the framework of the Ramstein coordination group. In particular, to Canada, Sweden, Germany, Spain, Poland, Greece and others. Together we are fighting for the future of the free world. For the rule of law to reign in the world, not the rule of force.
Also today, we are adopting two decisions that enable an additional $4.5 billion grant from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the International Development Association.
These funds are part of a large project to ensure sustainable public administration in Ukraine. They will be used to pay salaries to state employees, in particular teachers and doctors. And also to make social payments to people with disabilities and internally displaced persons.
The second issue I would like to touch upon today is the Ukrainian energy sector, which is under attack of the enemy on the brink of winter.
The situation is difficult. Not only the light in the homes of Ukrainians depends on the availability of electricity, but also heat, water supply, communication and transport.
More than 1000 missiles and drones have flown to our substations since the beginning of the full-scale war. All thermal and hydroelectric power plants and key substations that transmit energy from generating facilities to consumers have come under fire. Some substations were attacked by the enemy up to 8 times.
If the shelling continues, the frequency and duration of outages may increase. We restore everything as fast as we can. But the next waves cause new destruction. Accordingly, blackouts – both scheduled and emergency – may become more frequent and longer.
One of the parts of our preparation is to import as much energy generating equipment as possible.
The Government has previously adopted a decision exempting goods that improve energy supply from VAT and import duties. These are power generators, transformers, batteries and other equipment for the energy sector.
Yesterday alone, according to the State Customs Service, 8,577 generating sets were imported to Ukraine.
But we had complaints about difficulties with their import by individuals. Allegedly, the Government’s decision does not apply to individuals. This is not true. Every Ukrainian can import the necessary generators and charging stations to the country without paying customs duties and VAT. Therefore, we adopt a protocol decision to ensure unimpeded customs clearance of these goods for individuals. If anyone at the customs creates obstacles, I urge you to immediately contact the hotline of the Security Service of Ukraine.
Today we all face new challenges. But we must pass them with dignity, demonstrating unity and mutual support.
We will stand, we will win, we will rebuild!
Thank you for your attention! Glory to Ukraine!