External backers pour billions into Ukraine to counter war damage

FILE PHOTO: A view of the destroyed village of Moshchun amid Russia's invasion, Kyiv region, Ukraine May 19, 2022. Picture taken with a drone. REUTERS/Leonardo Benassatto/File Photo

KYIV/LONDON (Reuters) - Pictures of devastation in Ukraine following Russia's invasion have sparked urgent questions over how its reconstruction can be paid for. But before they can even begin to be answered, Kyiv is seeking billions just to ride out this year.

After a 30% contraction in its economy in 2022, Ukraine will need $38 billion by the end of year to cover its budget deficit alone.