KIEV, Nov. 3 - Ukraine failed to persuade the International Monetary Fund to resume a $15.5 billion loan program, the central bank indicated Friday, stripping the country of a key funding option as it confronts a looming currency crisis.

“The IMF mission is completing its work in Ukraine,” the bank said in a statement.

“The central bank hopes that the International Monetary Fund and the government will resolve all issues ... in the nearest future which will allow (Ukraine) to receive the next tranche which is crucial for the advancement of reforms.”

The IMF halted payouts under the programme at the beginning of this year after the government delayed unpopular reforms such as raising domestic gas prices.