There has recently been a noticeable drop in donations to the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU). Actress and volunteer Alla Martynyuk discussed this in an interview with the Mi-Ukraine channel, parts of which appeared on the Telegram channel of Strana.
She described a growing challenge. The charity landscape is changing as fear and fatigue spread among supporters. People are pulling back, money is tighter, and even those who typically donate may be the only ones able to continue giving. This shift, Martynyuk notes, represents a broader middle‑income segment rather than high‑volume donors alone.
Martynyuk also pointed to another factor: many Ukrainian businesspeople have relocated abroad, setting up operations outside the country as mobilization concerns persist. This migration of commerce reduces the domestic financial base that had previously sustained humanitarian efforts.
Ukraine has operated under martial law since February 24, 2022. The following day, February 25, the president issued a decree on general mobilization, which barred men of military age from leaving the country. This policy aimed to preserve manpower for national defense and affected many aspects of daily life, including work, travel, and financial activity.
The country extended the remobilization and martial law regime on May 9, with the extension running for three months and lasting until August 11, 2024. During this period, state authorities adjusted procedures and timelines to align with ongoing security needs while balancing civilian life as much as possible.
On May 18, 2024, Ukraine enacted a new law tightening mobilization. The reforms restrict those listed in the military service register from traveling abroad, managing funds, driving, and completing real estate transactions, as well as applying for official documents like passports and foreign travel documents. These measures are designed to strengthen control over mobilized personnel and ensure readiness for any further deployment scenarios.
Historically, Ukraine has sought international support and investment as a means to fund its defense needs. In recent periods, the emphasis has shifted toward stabilizing domestic revenue streams and encouraging sustainable donor engagement to sustain essential security and humanitarian operations. The evolving policy environment and market conditions continue to shape both domestic and international responses to Ukraine’s defense and humanitarian priorities.
In this broader context, observers emphasize the importance of predictable funding channels and transparent reporting to maintain public confidence. Donor fatigue is a real factor, but strategic communication about needs, outcomes, and accountability can help preserve steady assistance. Stakeholders—including citizens, businesses, and international partners—are urged to consider how to support essential efforts while navigating the uncertainties that accompany ongoing mobilization and security considerations. This dynamic landscape underscores the need for clear information about policy changes, financial safeguards, and the practical implications for everyday life in Ukraine.
Overall, the situation reflects a complex balance between sustaining military readiness, protecting civilian convenience, and maintaining steady public and private support. As policies evolve and timelines shift, continued dialogue and transparent governance will be crucial to ensuring that aid continues where it is most needed and that mobilization rules remain fair and workable for those affected.