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What’s Inside Ukraine’s 2025–2026 Action Program? Defense Spending, EU Goals, and Anti-Corruption Reforms
Ukraine has unveiled the Action Program for 2025–2026, prioritizing defense, EU integration, anti-corruption, and social protection. Here`s what`s inside.
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With a record $120 billion defense budget and major investments in reconstruction and digitalization, the plan aims to strengthen resilience and advance Ukraine’s path to Europe. Published on the Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers` website on August 18, the plan sets out a comprehensive agenda centered on defense, European integration, anti-corruption reforms, social protection, reconstruction, and culture.
Defense and security
In 2026, Ukraine’s defense budget—including contributions from international partners—is projected to reach $120 billion. At least half of that sum will be directed toward weapons and equipment produced domestically. The Government also plans to expand defense production using the “Danish model,” create a Defense City hub, introduce new technologies, and improve conditions for military personnel.
European and NATO integration
On the path to the European Union, Ukraine is preparing to launch accession negotiations across six clusters, achieve tangible progress under the EU Enlargement Package, and secure a favorable report from the European Commission. At the same time, Ukraine will continue to align with NATO standards and strengthen cooperation with the Alliance.
Anti-corruption reforms
Anti-corruption efforts center on digitalization. The Government plans to roll out e-Court, e-Excise, online monitoring, and next-generation administrative service centers to make state services more transparent and accessible.
Social protection and veterans’ support
Social policy will prioritize housing compensation for internally displaced persons, support for farmers, and the creation of a special economic regime in frontline areas. Funding for social programs is set at about $609 million in 2025 and more than $1.22 billion in 2026.
For veterans, the plan foresees a unified housing registry, expanded rehabilitation services, and new digital tools through the Diia app.
Reconstruction and economic development
A Recovery Fund and a nationwide Reconstruction Plan will drive the rebuilding of infrastructure and housing, while programs for returning Ukrainians from abroad will offer housing, jobs, and social support. The Government also intends to introduce multiple citizenship.
Culture and education
Cultural policy will emphasize the preservation of heritage, resilience of cultural institutions, and the growth of creative industries, alongside stronger international visibility of Ukrainian culture.
Energy security
A separate priority is winter stability. The Government pledges to safeguard critical infrastructure against missile and drone strikes, guarantee uninterrupted energy supplies, and strengthen cyber resilience.
This program highlights a comprehensive approach: securing Ukraine’s defense, accelerating EU and NATO integration, boosting economic recovery, and reinforcing the country’s resilience.
Earlier, Ukraine’s Parliament passed a presidential bill restoring the full independence of the country’s key anti-corruption institutions—the National Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office. The move follows widespread criticism of a recent law that had curtailed their powers. The President has already signed the legislation into force.
