Nearly 65% of the state budget was allocated to defense in January–April 2025
According to the Ministry of Finance, in January–April 2025, Ukraine allocated UAH 765.0 billion from the state budget to the security and defense sector*. This accounts for 64.5% of total expenditures from the general fund during this period. In April alone, the government spent UAH 204.9 billion on defense needs.
*The security and defense sector includes the Armed Forces of Ukraine, National Guard, Border Guard Service, Security Service of Ukraine, National Police, and other security institutions.*
These funds were used for:
- monetary support for servicemembers, police officers, and other security personnel;
- procurement of equipment, weapons, ammunition, personal protection gear, body armor, and helmets;
- fuel, food, and medical supplies;
- other needs essential to the operation of security and defense forces.
How do these figures compare?
Defense spending in 2025 shows a consistent upward trend that began in 2022. For comparison:
- in January–April 2024, approximately UAH 620 billion was spent on defense;
- in all of 2023, total defense spending reached UAH 1.5 trillion—meaning that half of last year's amount was already spent in the first four months of 2025;
- in 2021, defense spending accounted for about 5–6% of GDP, whereas now it exceeds 20%.
Why so much?
Wartime conditions shape budget priorities. Ukraine spends billions daily to sustain its armed forces, replenish equipment, and maintain logistics. Monetary compensation for soldiers is the largest expense and plays a crucial role in preserving combat readiness and morale.
Focus on effectiveness
Significant defense spending raises questions within society and among international partners. Transparency, accountability, and tangible outcomes are as critical as funding itself.
