Wartime procurement in Ukraine: challenges, reforms and priorities in the condition of martial law

The article thoroughly examines the profound transformation of Ukraine’s public procurement system under the extraordinary and unprecedented conditions of a full-scale war initiated by Russian aggression. The author identifies, elaborates upon, and critically evaluates significant legislative and procedural changes implemented to swiftly and effectively respond to the urgent and evolving needs of the state, particularly emphasizing developments in defense procurement, humanitarian assistance, and the rapid restoration of critically damaged infrastructure facilities. The research systematically analyzes the principal challenges that have significantly impacted the procurement system, including the disruption of crucial logistics and supply chains, widespread shortages of critical and essential goods and materials, a notable reduction in competitive bidding processes, and a significantly increased susceptibility to corruption and abuse under crisis conditions. Special emphasis is placed on analyzing the adoption and practical implementation of innovative procurement strategies, including streamlined procurement procedures, the integration and effective utilization of digital and electronic procurement technologies, and the critical and supportive role played by international partnerships and assistance mechanisms in ensuring that Ukraine’s procurement system effectively meets the country’s urgent and ongoing needs. The study emphasizes that, despite severe constraints and extraordinary pressures imposed by martial law and continuous hostilities, Ukraine has remarkably succeeded in maintaining adherence to fundamental principles of transparency, openness, and accountability within its procurement processes and frameworks. Concluding the analysis, the author argues that further strategic improvements and comprehensive advancements within the public procurement system are crucial. The author recommends that future policies and mechanisms emphasize harmonization with European Union and NATO procurement standards, substantially enhance anti-corruption oversight and enforcement, and rigorously institutionalize wartime experiences and lessons learned, thus ensuring increased system efficiency, resilience, and effectiveness during the crucial post-war reconstruction and national recovery phases. Keywords: sovereign purchases, purchasing system, military camp, anti-corruption control, international assistance, harmonization, standards, insight.