US to provide $700m to modernise Ukrainian ports, railways: official

The United States will allocate nearly USD 700 million to modernise Ukrainian ports, railways, and checkpoints, Ukrainian deputy prime minister Oleksandr Kubrakov said after a meeting with US special representative for Ukrainian economic recovery Penny Pritzker.

"We have to modernise Ukrainian checkpoints, ports, and railways. This will improve logistics and increase export capacity. The United States plans to provide almost USD 700 million for this purpose," Mr Kubrakov posted on Facebook, without elaborating.

It was not immediately known when the money would be allocated.

The Ukrainian official said that he had also raised the issue of American investment in the restoration of the energy grid, which was severely damaged by Russia as it attempted to completely disrupt power supply in Ukraine.

The United States has already allocated USD 522 million to restore and protect Ukraine’s energy sector, according to Ukraine’s prime minister Denys Shmyhal.

During Ms Pritzker’s visit to Kyiv on Monday, a first since she was appointed White House special representative for Ukraine recovery, the sides discussed assistance for restoring water supply and sewerage, demining, and developing the agricultural sector.

"A joint working group has already been set up to develop a model of cooperation to move to the implementation of specific projects. I am ready to discuss every cent of American aid and investment," Mr Kubrakov added.