Economy
Disability pensions will increase by 12.1% from 1 March
From 1 March 2026, pensions in Ukraine will be indexed at a rate of 12.1%. The recalculation will be carried out automatically, including for disability pensions.
Oil prices rose sharply due to the escalation of the conflict surrounding Iran and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Oil prices jumped 13% after shipping in the Strait of Hormuz was disrupted amid mutual attacks between Iran, Israel and the United States.
Free transport for pensioners in March 2026
In March 2026, pensioners in Ukraine will be entitled to free travel on some forms of public transport. However, certain types of transport will not be covered by the concessions.
The Ministry of Economy has opened applications for compensation for the cost of Ukrainian equipment in 2026
Businesses and farmers can receive up to 25% compensation for purchasing Ukrainian-made equipment through authorised banks.
Memorandum with the IMF: Cabinet considers VAT increase
As part of the new programme with the International Monetary Fund, the government is considering raising the basic VAT rate.
Child benefits and "yeYasla" payments will be received by 2 March – Ministry of Social Policy
Child benefits, childcare benefits for children under one year of age, and benefits under the "yeYasla" programme will be paid into recipients' accounts by 2 March. This was announced by Minister of Social Policy Denys Ulyutin during a session of the Verkhovna Rada.
Mindich declared his readiness to return and go to prison on bail
Businessman Timur Mindich, who is involved in the Midas case concerning embezzlement in the energy sector, has stated his willingness to return to Ukraine and remain in custody on condition of "honest bail".
4.4 million Ukrainians will receive 699 million hryvnia in national cashback
Ukrainians have begun receiving payments under the National Cashback programme for their December purchases. A total of 699 million hryvnia will be transferred to the accounts of 4.4 million citizens.
How the ESBU and the Accounting Chamber will influence Ukraine's financial future: analysis of the latest IMF report
In the context of a protracted war, financial support for Ukraine from international partners has become not just an auxiliary tool, but the foundation of macroeconomic stability. The new four-year Extended Fund Facility (EFF) programme from the IMF, worth $8.1 billion, is part of a $136.5 billion international support package. However, these funds are not provided unconditionally: their receipt directly depends on Ukraine's ability to reform key state institutions, among which the Economic Security Bureau and the Accounting Chamber occupy a special place.
A tanker carrying Russian fuel, presumably bound for Cuba, was spotted off the coast of the United States.
The Sea Horse, which analysts believe may be transporting Russian fuel to Cuba, was spotted off the east coast of the United States. Experts say this is an example of the so-called dark fleet tactic, which involves manipulating signals and transshipping cargo on the high seas.
New IMF financing programme: what is Ukraine required to do?
The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund has approved a new 48-month Extended Fund Facility programme for Ukraine worth approximately $8.1 billion. This decision will allow for the immediate disbursement of a first tranche of $1.5 billion.
"Acted within the scope of their authority" - ESBU rejects Semyon Kryvonos' accusations of illegal surveillance
The Economic Security Bureau stated that it has all legal grounds to inspect vehicles through the Safe City system.
