The "Winter is Support" project, known as the "thousand of Zelenskyi", causes a lot of discussions about the sources of funding and the real number of applicants for assistance. According to economist Oleh Pendzyn, it is expected that up to 15 million people will use the program, although the allocated budget may be insufficient.
According to Oleg Pendzyn, there are about 27-28 million people left in Ukraine today. Of these, according to his forecasts, 3-4 million will not participate in the program. This means that about 15 million people can claim assistance.
However, the allocated budget for the program is UAH 13-14 billion, while about UAH 20 billion will be needed to provide for all potential participants.
"To date, about 5 million people have volunteered, and the government is still investing in the budget. But if the number of applicants increases, a financial deficit will arise," Pendzyn notes.
The economist emphasizes that funds for "Zelensky's thousand" are not taken from budget revenues, because taxes and fees are directed exclusively to military needs. Funding sources for the program include:
- UAH 4 billion — redirection of funds from business and agricultural sector support programs.
- UAH 8–8.5 billion — unemployment funds.
Deputy Olha Vasylevska-Smaglyuk noted that the funds received can be spent only on goods at Ukrposhta branches or paying for utility services. This restriction caused mixed reactions among citizens.
Oleg Pendzyn believes that the government risks facing problems if the number of applications increases. The situation calls for detailed planning and a review of funding sources to ensure that promises are fulfilled without overburdening the economy.
"If the budget exceeds UAH 13-14 billion, it will be necessary to find new sources of financing, which may affect other important programs," the economist concluded.
The "Winter is Support" project shows the good intentions of the government, but at the same time emphasizes the importance of financial discipline and strategic planning. Time will tell whether it will be possible to avoid overspending.
