Charles Esther
Ukraine has taken a bold step toward embracing financial innovation by introducing a bill that could allow its central bank to hold cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin in national reserves.
The proposal, officially named Bill No. 13356, was submitted to the Verkhovna Rada, Ukraine’s parliament, and suggests amending the existing law “On the National Bank of Ukraine.”
The bill seeks to include crypto assets in the list of permissible reserve items alongside traditional assets such as gold and foreign currencies.
Within the first 150 words, this move clearly shows that Ukraine is exploring Bitcoin and other crypto assets as part of its national reserves.
Crypto Inclusion Will Be Optional for the Central Bank
Yaroslav Zhelezniak, a member of parliament, confirmed the bill’s submission on his official Telegram channel.
He clarified that while the law would permit the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) to purchase and store cryptocurrencies, it would not obligate them to do so.
The central bank will maintain complete control over decisions related to how much cryptocurrency to acquire, when to buy, and whether to engage in such investments at all.
Zhelezniak stated that decisions on crypto holdings would be left entirely to the discretion of the central bank.
A Strategic Move Toward Economic Modernization
Lawmakers backing the bill view it as a strategic measure to align Ukraine with evolving global financial systems.
According to Zhelezniak, creating a crypto asset reserve could help strengthen macroeconomic stability and promote digital economic development.
He shared this insight via Telegram, stressing that proper management of such reserves could open up new financial opportunities for the country.
Collaboration With Crypto Industry Experts
The draft bill was developed with input from several experts in the crypto and legal fields.
Kyrylo Khomiakov, Binance’s regional head for Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia, participated in writing the proposal.
Khomiakov has also been involved in advising other governments on forming national crypto reserves, which adds credibility to the Ukrainian initiative.
Petr Bilyk, head of artificial intelligence practice at Juscutum Legal Engineering and a member of Ukraine’s AI development committee, also contributed to the bill.
Crypto Reserve Bill Inspired by Global Trends
In a video commentary, Zhelezniak emphasized that the bill does not represent a promotional push for crypto.
Instead, it is a proactive step to ensure Ukraine does not fall behind as more countries explore digital asset reserves.
He noted that governments such as those in the United States and El Salvador have begun experimenting with holding cryptocurrencies as part of their state financial strategy.
Zhelezniak called this approach “a story with the right to life,” indicating the lawmakers’ belief that such a model is worth considering.
A Timely Initiative Amid Ongoing Conflict
This bill emerges as Ukraine continues to navigate challenges related to its ongoing conflict with Russia.
The idea of holding crypto assets in national reserves may also serve as a tool for greater financial independence and global integration.
As peace talks remain uncertain, Ukraine’s lawmakers appear determined to explore every avenue to secure the nation’s economic future.
Conclusion
Ukraine’s proposal to allow Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies in its national reserves marks a significant shift in its financial policy.
By combining innovation with caution, the country opens itself to future possibilities without rushing into mandatory action.
If adopted, this legislation could place Ukraine among a growing group of nations experimenting with blockchain-based financial resilience.
