KIEV () -- Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma left Kiev on Tuesday for Washington, where he will meet with U.S. President Bill Clinton and negotiate with financial institutions for aid.


During his three-day visit, Kuchma is expected to bring up Ukrainian concerns about its nuclear disarmament process, Ukraine's role in the Bosnian peace process, NATO expansion and the closure of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant.


The visit includes meetings with Vice President Al Gore, congressional representatives, and Secretary of State Warren Christopher, who invited Kuchma to the United States after the two met in Finland this month.