Every Ukrainian is eligible to receive a little financial boost this Christmas season - courtesy of international donors. But the program was supposed to come with a catch - that every recipient first had to be vaccinated for COVID.

The eSupport Program, popularly known as "Zelenskyy’s Thousand," was initially launched in 2021 as a targeted public health initiative. Backed by international donors like USAID, the program aimed to encourage COVID-19 vaccinations by offering financial incentives to fully vaccinated citizens. Participants received 1,000 hryvnias (around $35) through Ukraine’s digital government platform, Diia, to spend on cultural events, fitness services, and other approved categories.

A Program Adapted for Wartime
Originally tied to vaccination as a prerequisite, the program has evolved in response to Ukraine’s shifting needs. The outbreak of full-scale war in 2022 brought unprecedented challenges, with millions of Ukrainians displaced and widespread economic disruption. Recognizing this, President Zelenskyy adjusted the eSupport Program in 2024, removing the vaccination requirement and expanding its scope to provide much-needed economic assistance to all citizens.

Now, the remaining funds from the program are being distributed to a broader base of Ukrainians, offering some relief in the face of ongoing hardships. While the funds were initially earmarked for public health incentives, they are now being repurposed to support individuals in rebuilding their lives amid the devastation of war.

Why the Funds Can’t Be Redirected to Military Needs
The funding for "Zelenskyy’s Thousand" came from international partners like the United States, Sweden, and Japan, with clear restrictions on how it could be used. These funds were allocated to civilian-focused initiatives, such as public health, economic relief, and digital transformation. Redirecting these resources to military efforts would violate the agreements with donors, jeopardizing future assistance and eroding trust.

Additionally, maintaining the program’s civilian focus ensures transparency and accountability, two critical elements of Ukraine’s international partnerships. By providing direct aid to citizens, the program continues to bolster public morale and resilience during a time of immense strain.