Ukraine has appeared in a difficult situation economically, socially and politically and if we say they are a fraternal nation, we must treat them as relatives, Vladimir Putin said during Q&A on Thursday.

Asked about the reasons for Russia’s financial help to Ukraine, Putin said everything is done in the interests of Ukrainian people, RIA Novosti reported.

He added Ukraine needs hundreds of billions to make reforms, while $15 billion provided by Russia will help the government just to keep running.