US gives $2 billion to Ukraine

Jack Lew and Natalia Yaresko sign the aid deal in Kiev. Photo: Sky News

The British based Sky News is reporting on US support for the Ukraine. The war-torn country invaded by the Russian Military will receive $2 Billion to help with "near-term social spending."

The deal came as America and the European Union said they were considering further sanctions on Russia to stop its support for separatists in eastern Ukraine.

After signing the loan guarantees agreement with Ukrainian Finance Minister Natalia Yaresko, US Treasury Secretary Jack Lew criticized "Russian aggression" in the region.

Armed pro-Russia fighters prepare for the battle with Ukrainian police on the outskirts the eastern Ukrainian city of Slavyansk  (AFP Photo/Anatoliy Stepanov)

"We remain prepared to do more (on sanctions) if necessary. To that end, we will continue to work with our allies to increase the pressure on Russia," Lew told reporters at the signing ceremony.

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There is no confirmation that Russian President V. Putin laughed robustly when told of the "social aid" while sending troops and supplies for additional invasion.