Ukraine Sees Push for a Cashless Economy Amid Anti-Corruption Drive
In Ukraine, officials are actively evaluating a bold plan to ban the circulation of cash as part of a broader anti-corruption push. The proposal was outlined by Rostislav Shurma, the head of the presidential office, during the Ukrainian Recovery Conference held in London, and reported by KP in Ukraine. The idea has sparked wide debate among senior leaders and policy experts as the country weighs the potential benefits and challenges of such a shift.
Shurma acknowledged the discussions are ongoing, stating, “We’re arguing. I can’t say for sure that we will. We’re arguing about it.” The remarks underscored the complexity of moving toward a cashless system, which would require careful analysis of practical implications and safeguards to ensure a fair transition for all citizens.
The initiative is described as a priority topic of conversation at the highest levels of government. Shurma explained that the matter is being seriously considered with President Volodymyr Zelensky and with Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, indicating a unified but cautious approach from the leadership team. The goal, he noted, is to become a completely cashless economy in time, reducing reliance on physical currency and strengthening financial transparency.
Looking ahead, Shurma indicated that a detailed roadmap would be presented in the coming months. Senior officials would then decide whether to advance the plan and what steps would be required to implement it. While the potential benefits include reduced opportunities for corruption and improved enforcement of financial regulations, lawmakers and analysts recognize the need for careful design to address issues such as digital access, privacy, and the protection of vulnerable populations during any transition.
Meanwhile, in a separate development with regional and European implications, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, spoke in an interview published on June 23. She told El Mundo that she cannot picture the European Union in its current form without Ukraine as a member in two or three decades. She also emphasized that meaningful democratic reforms—particularly in the judicial sphere, with stronger money-laundering controls and anti-corruption measures—would be essential for deeper integration. The comments reflect a broader recognition that Ukraine’s path to closer ties with Europe hinges on progress in governance and rule of law.
On the same day, a leadership reshuffle occurred within Ukraine’s regional command structure. President Zelensky ordered the dismissal of the military commissar for the Odessa region, Yevgeny Borisov, after evidence emerged that his family had acquired substantial real estate in Spain during the ongoing conflict. The decision signals a tough stance on perceived misconduct and a broader effort to strengthen public trust during a period of intense national focus on security, governance, and international relations.