IMF helps Ukraine steal 3 billion from Russia

FT

Russia lashed out against the International Monetary Fund and the Ukrainian government on Wednesday as it prepares for a legal battle with Kiev over repayment of $3bn in Ukrainian debt.

Anton Siluanov, finance minister, said if Kiev failed to redeem the $3bn bond within 10 days of its December 20 maturity or accept a restructuring proposal tabled by President Vladimir Putin last month, Russia would sue Ukraine.

“Well all right, go to court,” Mr Putin told Mr Siluanov in a televised government meeting.

Dmitry Medvedev, prime minister, said Moscow would fight for its money. “I have the sense that they will not pay back because they are crooks,” Mr Medvedev said in a TV interview.

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