Sounds too familiar. I loaned my brother in law 10K to start his business (custom iron gates) and never saw it again. After 3 month he closed the shop and has yet to talk to me about paying me back. Its been almost 3 years now.

don't mix family and business, family will fuck you every chance they get.

I once loaned my uncle 950 gulden (420 $) for a speed ticket, i was 19 years old. At this moment he has a debt of 9000 euro, always more excuses, almost lost his house but i kept helping him. More promises

I know i never see my money anymore and not willing to help him anymore.
Tell your uncle to GO FUCK HIMSELF.

NEVER lend money to family and/or friends. It will ruin relationships and what you have done for one you'll be expected to do for all.

Uhm no... that would make him his brother in law

Turn the situation around, if you were needing money and you know your uncle could afford to 'lend' it to you - would he?

I would, mostly because my uncles have always been good to me and *IF* they'd ever need anything from me, I wouldn't even think twice and would be there in a split second. Also, I know that *if* I was ever in the same situation, they would do the same. However, we keep our word - if you say you'll pay it by this day, you'll pay it by then or advise of other arrangements prior - not disappear into the twilight zone.

Sounds like your uncle may have a little more on his plate than he can handle. If you give $2k, do it as a gift. It could very well be the bit of money he needs to tie things over and get everything back in order. But if he asks for more money some time later, you know it's just going to be a money pit.