Portrait of Rishi Sunak
Politician · country
Wikipedia (opens in new tab)

Rishi Sunak on Ukraine

Economic advisor to Kyiv (strong)

TL;DR

Rishi Sunak is an unpaid advisor to President Zelensky, focusing on Ukraine's long-term economic renewal and post-war reconstruction.

Key Points

  • He accepted an unpaid role on President Zelensky's International Advisory Council for the Economic Renewal of Ukraine in February 2026.

  • He believes a strong Ukraine is essential for a safer and more prosperous Europe, linking security directly to economic strength.

  • His post-premiership advisory role involves working alongside international experts and leaders from institutions like the World Bank.

Summary

Rishi Sunak has formally taken on an unpaid advisory role as a member of President Volodymyr Zelensky's International Advisory Council for the Economic Renewal of Ukraine. Documents released in February 2026 confirmed this appointment, which positions him among international experts tasked with advising both the President and his economic advisor on the country's recovery strategy. He stated that he was honoured to take the role, believing that a strong Ukraine requires a strong economy, and expressed confidence in Ukraine's potential to become one of Europe's most dynamic economies through its human capital and innovation.

The former Prime Minister has previously supported Ukraine during his tenure in office, and this new commitment continues that engagement beyond his time in Downing Street. The advisory group, which includes leaders from major financial institutions, has already discussed critical areas such as strengthening Ukraine's energy resilience ahead of future winters and exploring broader investment opportunities, including in the defence industry. His involvement is noted alongside other post-premiership appointments he has taken in the private sector, though this role is specifically designated as unpaid.

Key Quotes

“We can help build a strong and secure Ukraine that will be a keystone of a safer and more prosperous Europe.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Rishi Sunak currently serves as an unpaid member of the President of Ukraine's International Advisory Council for the Economic Renewal of Ukraine. He focuses on advising on the country's long-term economic reconstruction and investment strategy. This role continues his stated support for Ukraine following his term as Prime Minister.

The advisory role was confirmed in February 2026, following an application under the government's business appointment rules for former ministers. The council held its first meeting shortly before the public announcement of his involvement.

Rishi Sunak expressed confidence that Ukraine, leveraging its human capital and innovation, can become one of the most dynamic economies in Europe. He stated that the West needs a strong Ukraine, which in turn requires a strong economy for successful reconstruction.