Kerry Lands in Ukraine With $1 Billion Aid Package

U.S. Secretary of State Kerry touched down in Kiev today to show American support for the country's newly minted leaders - the same leaders Russian President Vladimir Putin called "definitely not legitimate" in this morning's press conference.

Before the diplomatic discussions kicked off, Kerry paid a visit to the Shrine of the Fallen, a memorial set up to honor those killed in last month's violence in the capital.

Kerry did not arrive empty-handed.

Credit: Efrem Lukatsky/AP Photo

According to the U.S. Treasury Department, Kerry has offered an economic package expected to include a $1 billion loan guarantee, pending congressional approval. The package will supplement a larger aid package from the International Monetary Fund. The U.S. will also provide technical experts to assist with the National Bank and Finance Ministry as well as technical assistance to train election observers ahead of the May 25 election.

In addition, the United States "is ready to provide assistance and financing to help Ukrainian businesses find new export markets and adjust to trade pressures and to enhance energy efficiency, helping to reduce dependence on imported gas," according to the statement released by the Treasury.

Kerry is slated to meet with the Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk and Acting President Oleksandr Turchynov.