Economy

Speaking to journalists, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy outlined the key challenges facing Ukraine in the areas of defence, diplomacy and financing. He discussed US military aid, the threat of further Russian attacks, the negotiation process, security guarantees and cooperation with countries in the Middle East.

Ukraine has already begun preparations for the coming heating season and the restoration of its energy infrastructure following Russia’s attacks this winter. According to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, work is already underway at 245 sites across the country, although the €90 billion European support package remains blocked.

Vladimir Kudritsky, former head of the National Energy Holding “Ukrenergo” and founder of Ne Gen, stated that the return of power cuts this spring is not due to a new cyberattack or cold weather, but to the NEURC’s decision on price caps for non-domestic consumers.

Despite the sanctions, Russia’s missile production remains dependent on imported chemical raw materials. Documents analysed by StateWatch show that European-produced cellulose acetate was channelled via intermediaries and civilian companies to the Perm Gunpowder Plant, which supplies fuel for the Russian Federation’s missile systems.

A significant portion of the infrastructure in the Russian port of Primorsk on the Baltic Sea has been damaged as a result of drone attacks. This is one of the country’s key export hubs.

The threat of Iranian control over the Strait of Hormuz is forcing countries in the region to reconsider their plans for alternative routes for oil and gas exports. These are large-scale infrastructure projects, the implementation of which could take years.

Ukrainians may have their housing benefit amount reviewed if their household’s average monthly total income has changed by more than 50% either upwards or downwards. Such a recalculation is carried out automatically twice a year.

The Verkhovna Rada Committee on Education, Science and Innovation has highlighted the financial risks facing higher education institutions following the increase in the basic salaries of academic and teaching staff. Parliament drew attention to the shortfall in the special fund for higher education institutions and the absence of a budget programme specification as of the date of consideration.

The conflict surrounding Iran has led to a rise in global prices for energy and raw materials, generating additional revenue for Russia. This applies not only to oil, but also to gas, aluminium, grain and fertilisers.

Mykhailo Borusovskyi, acting head of the Territorial Office of the Economic Security Bureau in Lviv Oblast, has submitted his declaration for 2025. The document states that he lives in a rented flat owned by the proprietor of a grocery market in Sykhiv.

Improvements in the energy situation and demand bolstered business activity last month, but shelling, inflation and labour shortages remain key risks.

In April 2026, the minimum cost of living in Ukraine will remain unchanged at the level set on 1 January. The minimum wage will also remain unchanged, whilst some of the other financial changes during the month will apply only to certain categories of citizens.