Frontline communities identified priorities for 2026
On January 5, 2025, more than 300 participants of the Association of Frontline Cities and Communities of Ukraine held a conference, where they summarized the work of the Association in 2025 and identified key economic risks and priorities for supporting frontline territories in 2026. One of the main priorities outlined at the event was the protection of small and micro businesses.
Acting Mayor of Sumy Artem Kobzar emphasized that communities do not have sufficient capabilities to support businesses. This indicates an urgent need for a systemic state policy that takes into account the specifics of frontline territories. Ihor Terekhov, a representative of the Association, noted that pressure on small and micro businesses in frontline communities could have catastrophic consequences. Necessary decisions have already been made to support businesses, notably the cancellation of the land tax aimed at keeping businesses in cities.
Issues of tariff policy
Another important issue discussed at the conference was the increase in gas tariffs. Zaporizhzhia may face additional costs of 170 million hryvnias per year due to changes in tariff policy. Regina Kharchenko pointed out that this situation creates additional burdens for local budgets and businesses.
Thus, conference participants emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to supporting frontline communities, which includes business protection and combating the negative consequences of tariff policy.
The identification of priorities for frontline communities in 2026 reflects the current challenges these territories face, especially under conditions of economic instability. The protection of small businesses and regulation of tariff policy could become decisive factors for stabilizing the economy of regions affected by military actions. Support from the state, as well as an adequate tariff policy, is critically important for the recovery and development of these communities.