The United States plans to make available $1 billion in loan guarantees to Ukraine and is considering other direct financial assistance, Secretary of State John Kerry said on Wednesday.
Kerry told reporters that the U.S. was "urgent to move forward" in assisting Ukraine following the ousting of President Viktor Yanukovych, The Associated Press reported.
He also said it was urgent for Ukraine's interim government to enact reforms, curb corruption, and prepare free and fair elections.
The U.S. aid would be part of a planned massive international assistance package that was expected to include European contributions as well as loans from the International Monetary Fund.
In an interview with Andrea Mitchell of NBC News on Wednesday Kerry warned that Russia must be “very careful” in decisions it makes about Ukraine and that it must keep its commitment to respect the sovereignty of the nation.
The White House also issued a statement on Wednesday afternoon that urged Ukrainian leaders to “form an inclusive, multiparty government to represent all the people of Ukraine as they prepare for May elections, and to restore order, stability, and unity to the country. “
In an apparent reference to Russia, the statement added, “We urge outside actors in the region to respect Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, to end provocative rhetoric and actions, to support democratically established transitional governing structures, and to use their influence in support of unity, peace, and an inclusive path forward.”
—Jeff Black and Carrie Dann of NBC News, with The Associated Press