A major meeting of global finance ministers and central bank leaders took place in Washington during the IMF and World Bank sessions. Though the event drew limited public attention, its consequences are significant for the global economy and for Ukraine.
The main topics included risks of a global financial crisis, record-high global debt levels (235% of GDP), slowing global trade, a rise in populist governments, and reduced globalization. The IMF raised its forecast for global economic growth in 2025 to 3.2%, but experts warn of growing cracks in world markets.
Despite optimism about avoiding the worst-case scenarios, concerns remain about possible new trade wars (such as potential US tariffs on Chinese goods) and the prospect of rising interest rates. Diverging approaches between European and American economic policies—particularly actions by the Trump administration—have created uncertainty among US partners.
The role of artificial intelligence was also a critical discussion point, with its impact on labor markets underscored, along with the need for wise leadership from world powers.
For Ukraine, such meetings are crucial given its dependence on international support and global markets. The future trajectory depends on the outcome of US-China negotiations and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. These factors will shape the stability or volatility of the world economy in the near term.
