VIENNA, June 30 - Negotiations on financing the pumping of natural gas into Ukraine's underground gas storage facilities will take place in Kiev between July 6 and 11, Energy and Coal Industry Minister Volodymyr Demchyshyn told journalists on Tuesday.

At least $1 billion is needed for the purpose, he said.

Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak said Western donors are discussing $2.5 billion-$3 billion aid for Ukraine, but it is unclear how much of this sum will be spent on the accumulation of gas in underground gas storage facilities.