Government explores fresh options for international financial aid

The National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) has approved a decision on continuing programs to support Ukrainians by ensuring economic stability and strengthening financial system oversight, Interfax-Ukraine reported.

The NSDC directed the Cabinet of Ministers to analyze Ukraine’s international aid situation within a month and propose additional funding sources at the next meeting of the Ukrainian Donor Platform’s Steering Committee.

The Cabinet must also take further steps to fully fund education, healthcare, and social protection, while advancing import substitution policies and supporting domestic producers.

Additionally, the NSDC ordered the government to refine criteria for designating defense companies as critical, including those authorized by the Defense Ministry for procurement and state contracts.

The decision also allows heating, water utility, and waste management companies to reserve up to 75% of employees subject to military service.

Within three months, the government and law enforcement must review assets of individuals and entities under sanctions to assess potential influence and take countermeasures.

Earlier, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced new sanctions following the NSDC meeting.