Amidst the ongoing war and economic pressure on the population in Ukraine, a new wave of social tension is emerging. This time, the focus of public discontent is on utility services, specifically the cost of water. A petition has appeared on the official website of the Cabinet of Ministers demanding a moratorium on tariff increases or the establishment of a single state-wide limit for them.

The initiative, registered under number 41/010252-26ep, responds to a situation that began developing on July 1, 2026. From this date, a rapid increase in water utility prices has been recorded in many cities across the country.

Prices unaffordable for citizens

The author of the appeal cites shocking statistics. In Dnipro, the tariff for the population increased by almost 2.6 times, reaching 81.92 hryvnias per cubic meter. In other settlements, the situation is even more dramatic: the cost of water has exceeded 100–150 hryvnias per cubic meter.

The text of the petition emphasizes that such a financial burden is unaffordable for citizens. The situation is exacerbated by the context of the war: the decline in real incomes, high unemployment, and constant shelling make any additional expenses critical for family survival.

Regional inequality

One of the key problems pointed out by the authors of the appeal is the decentralization of powers. Transferring the right to form tariffs to local communities has led to deep inequality. As a result, residents of different regions are forced to pay for the same vital service at prices that can differ by 3–5 times.

The petition calls on the Cabinet of Ministers to intervene in the situation immediately. Two main solutions to the problem are proposed:

  • Introduction of a moratorium on water tariff increases.
  • Establishment of a single state-wide limit on the cost of water utility services.

Who should pay for infrastructure?

In addition to regulatory measures, the author of the petition proposes changing the financial model for supporting water utilities. The document contains a request to create a mechanism for state subventions and to attract international donors to cover the losses of utility enterprises.

The main argument of the initiators is simple: the financial stability of critical infrastructure should be supported by the state budget and foreign aid, rather than being shifted onto the shoulders of end consumers.

Recall that earlier, Prime Minister Yulia Sviridenko commented on the situation with water supply prices. She noted that local authorities bear direct responsibility for tariffs. At the same time, according to the head of the government, the parliament and the Cabinet of Ministers retain the right to control this process and influence it.