Government prepares draft State Budget 2026 for second reading in the Verkhovna Rada

The Government has prepared the draft State Budget 2026 for its second reading in the Verkhovna Rada. This was announced by Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Svyrydenko following the Cabinet of Ministers meeting on 5 November.

“All decisions in this document have been developed in the context of the budget’s key priorities – security, defence, and social resilience. The entire volume of domestic revenues is directed towards the Armed Forces. At the same time, ensuring decent wages in the social sphere is crucial, so next year’s budget includes salary increases for doctors and educators. The Government is constantly seeking additional resources – both internal and external – to cover all necessary expenditures and obligations,” stated Yulia Svyrydenko.

To balance defence needs and social spending, the Government has made corresponding adjustments ahead of the second reading.

Total revenues will increase by UAH 27.8 billion, including through raising the bank profit tax rate from 25% to 50%.

Expenditures will also rise by UAH 33.6 billion. Of this, UAH 18.9 billion will go to the reserve fund, and UAH 6.6 billion will fund a phased 50% salary increase over the year not only for school teachers but also for lecturers in higher education institutions and vocational colleges.

“We count on the support of Members of Parliament and hope for the swift adoption of the State Budget 2026,” noted the Head of Government.