KIEV, July 16 - The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development is considering a $300 million loan to Ukraine that will help Naftogaz Ukrayiny buy natural gas ahead of the winter, the bank reported Thursday.

“The trade loan will bridge the gap between purchase and sale of natural gas,” EBRD said in a statement. “The project aims at supporting the policy of the government of Ukraine to make Naftogaz operations financially sustainable.”