The National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, chaired by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, held a meeting to discuss economic issues and the strengthening of sanctions.
One of the top priorities was support for citizens and Ukrainian businesses.
Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and First Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Economy Yuliia Svyrydenko reported on the implementation of state programs such as "eSupport," "eOselia," "Made in Ukraine," "National Cashback," as well as initiatives for teacher support and free school meals for Ukrainian children. Under the "eSupport" program, nearly 13 billion UAH has already been disbursed to Ukrainian families who applied for assistance.
Meanwhile, the "National Cashback" program now has over 5 million users.
"We are working to expand all effective support programs, and I have given the government the necessary instructions to do so. Importantly, we are already prepared for pension indexation in the spring, which will take effect on March 1," the President stated.
A key focus of the meeting was financial stability and discipline. President Zelenskyy instructed the government to address trade imbalances between imports and exports.
"We need to create significantly more opportunities for domestic production and support all forms of economic activity in Ukraine. Just as we are already attracting foreign investments into weapons production, government officials must work on securing investments in other industries as well," the President emphasized.
The discussion also covered engaging European partners to create safe conditions for economic activities, including humanitarian demining, demining of the agricultural land, and strengthening air defense for Ukrainian cities.
Head of the State Tax Service Ruslan Kravchenko and Head of the State Financial Monitoring Service Filip Pronin reported on financial transparency in the country. Their reports highlighted efforts to shut down shadow financial schemes previously used by oligarchs, officials, and MPs to conceal funds.
"The relevant materials have already been handed over to law enforcement agencies. Investigations must be objective – regardless of who is breaking the law. The NSDC has also approved new sanctions. The lists will be published soon, and several tough sanctions packages will follow," the President concluded.