“Winter Bribe”: why the government is handing out 1,000 hryvnias

Source: Author’s Facebook page

Neither the public nor ordinary citizens, nor even the so-called “intellectual opposition,” has asked the crucial question: why was a populist handout set at exactly 1,000 hryvnias? Not 800, not 2,000, but precisely 1,000.

It would also be somewhat understandable to provide those in need (not ALL!) with support in the amount of the subsistence minimum for persons who have lost their ability to work (2,361 UAH). It is also very little, but at least it is clear why so much.

You can’t determine the amount yourself! This isn’t money from the pockets of those in power! This isn’t business money! This is not—at least, I hope—an election stunt!

Where do these calculations come from that approximately 5% of the average salary will significantly help a Ukrainian?

I take the liberty of noting that this figure, as they say, was taken from the ceiling. This is precisely the essence of those who made the decision. Why even calculate, explain? They are “not suckers” to “bother” with this. As the youth say, “people hide!”

It was this visually “attractive,” yet meager—even by Ukrainian standards—handout from the authorities that didn’t prompt anyone to question basic calculations. Three zeros—and that’s it!

A society with low critical thinking and pitiful wages will always be hostage to populism. Without an economically self-sufficient middle class, it will be next to impossible for us to “get back on track” after the war. We need to start thinking now about how to address this…

Recall that the government program “Winter Support” has been launched in Ukraine, according to which every Ukrainian can receive 1,000 hryvnias. The state assistance can be spent on utilities, medicines, Ukrainian-made products, postal services, books, charity, and donations. You need to use them by June 30, 2026.

At the same time, the government plans to finance the “Winter Support” program by cutting other social expenditures. According to the accompanying documents, the plan is to reallocate funds from programs that support children and low-income families.

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