According to the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine, the highest costs for the programs “National Cashback” and “Winter eSupport” (the so-called “Zelensky’s thousand”) were the costs of paying for utilities. Since the launch of the program, Ukrainians have spent 56% of the total amount, or 3.8 billion UAH, on covering the costs of utilities. This allows us to conclude that utility payments remain a priority for citizens even in conditions of war and economic instability.
However, these funds are used not only for utilities. In total, from October 25, 2024 to February 1, 2025, Ukrainians spent UAH 6.7 billion, receiving a total of UAH 9.6 billion through the program. Thus, UAH 1,000 provided under this program is also spent on other important expenses. For example, UAH 1.4 billion was spent on mobile communications and telecommunication services, which indicates a high demand for communications in a country where military aggression has been ongoing for a long time.
Another important category of expenses was catering, where Ukrainians spent UAH 386 million. This amount demonstrates that even in wartime, a significant part of the population continues to support the restaurant and coffee business.
Among other expenses, we can highlight such categories as medicines (UAH 189 million), computer networks and information services (UAH 187 million), charity (UAH 177 million), and books and other printed materials (UAH 147 million). All this is a clear confirmation that the program provides significant support to Ukrainians, allowing them to spend money not only on basic needs, but also on various cultural and educational needs.
Rail and public transport received UAH 90 million, and cinemas received UAH 47 million. Postal services were used for UAH 42 million, while spending on cable, satellite and other pay television and radio amounted to only UAH 29 million.
It is worth noting that all of these costs remain in the Ukrainian economy, contributing to job creation and budget replenishment through taxes that go to finance the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
It should be noted that applications for the “Winter eSupport” program can be submitted through the “Diya” application, partner bank branches, or Ukrposht until the end of February. The program is available to all citizens who are in the territory controlled by Ukraine, and funds can be spent until the end of 2025.
