(Reuters) – Russia may spend around 107 billion roubles (1.34 billion USD) from the National Wealth Fund (NWF), to recapitalise its flagship airline Aeroflot. This was reported by Interfax on Wednesday, citing an unknown source.

It is part of an economic support package that the government plans to implement following Western sanctions against Moscow over Ukraine’s actions.

Interfax reports that the NWF is the nation’s largest oil revenue collector and will purchase Aeroflot shares via open subscription. It also plans to invest 57 billion rubles in equity stakes of other Russian airlines, helping them repay their debts.

Interfax reports that the Government’s share in Aeroflot cannot fall below 57.34% due to the sale of new shares.

Russia spent 80 billion rubles on Aeroflot shares for 2020 in order to weather the coronavirus crises.

Aeroflot, as well as the Russian Finance Ministry did not respond immediately to our requests.

RBC News reported Tuesday that Aeroflot was being considered for an additional share issue. This would be funded by the NWF (whose assets were $155.2 billion)

($1 = 79.7500 roubles)