Zelenskyy orders audit of public expenditures to prioritize defense
Photo: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (president.gov.ua)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the signing of a decree aimed at reducing bureaucratic procedures and conducting an immediate audit of state expenditures.
"Today, I signed a decree to reduce bureaucratic procedures and conduct an immediate audit of state expenditures," President Zelenskyy said in his address.
The head of state emphasized that he expects concrete results from the Ukrainian government within a month. According to him, the main goal is to redirect as many state resources as possible to defense needs and strengthen the country’s resilience.
The president also noted that tangible steps are being prepared to further deregulate and provide greater freedom for citizens.
"We will definitely accomplish all of this," Zelenskyy stressed.
It is worth noting that as of 7:45 p.m. Kyiv time, the decree has already been published on the website of the President’s Office. It takes effect from the day of its publication.
What the decree includes
The Cabinet of Ministers is instructed to take the following steps, taking into account its powers and national security threats:
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Review the functioning of state bodies to eliminate duplication of functions, unnecessary duties, and inefficient use of the budget and personnel;
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Carry out deregulation by removing excessive state regulations that hinder business and preventing unjustified government interference in entrepreneurial activity;
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Prepare a list of regulatory acts that need to be amended.
By September 1, 2025, the Cabinet must submit proposals on how to improve the functioning of the state under martial law, use the budget more efficiently, reallocate funds for defense, support businesses, and improve citizens' well-being.
Ukraine to launch DOGE equivalent
Earlier, Ukraine’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov announced that the Ukrainian government plans to launch an equivalent of Elon Musk’s DOGE department to reduce expenditures.
What is DOGE
DOGE is a US government department responsible for optimizing budget expenditures. In the early months of Donald Trump’s presidency, it was led by billionaire Elon Musk. It is a temporary government entity established by a presidential executive order and operates under a contract. The department is scheduled to complete its work by July 4, 2026.
Ukraine’s new Prime Minister, Yulia Svyrydenko, previously stated that the Cabinet may reduce the number of government officials amid the planned merger of ministries.
