The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) will provide Ukraine with an additional $155 million in development funding.
The resources will be used to assist economic recovery from the downturn caused by the coronavirus pandemic, enhance anti-corruption efforts, counter Russian aggression and strengthen democracy.
“The U.S. government and the Government of Ukraine remain steadfast in their commitment to the realization of Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations, and will continue to work together in support of the people of Ukraine,” the announcement says.
The biggest portion of funds, $63 million, will be used to counter Russian aggression in occupied territories of Donbas and Crimea, reduce Ukraine’s energy and economic dependence on Russia, and expand access to high-quality, unbiased information for Ukrainians to support European integration and strengthen democracy.
Thirty four million dollars will be directed to improving Ukraine’s essential health services; expanding economic opportunities in energy, agriculture, and finance to increase investor confidence and attract investment; as well as improving the economic resilience of small and medium businesses. Funds will also support the development of a land market to drive economic growth and investment in the agricultural sector.
Fourteen million dollars will strengthen anti-corruption institutions and reduce corruption in the health sector to facilitate Ukraine’s purchases of vital medicines and provide access to less expensive, quality drugs.
Another $44 million will go towards judicial reform efforts, advancing Ukraine’s judicial reform and encouraging youth involvement in politics to build “a democratic, pluralistic, and European-leaning Ukraine.”
The United States has invested more than $5 billion in assistance to Ukraine over the past 20 years.
In 2020, the U.S. has allocated over $17 million in total assistance to help Ukraine enhance its health care institutions and help conflict-affected communities and refugees in eastern Ukraine.
