Ukraine Introduces New 2,000-Hryvnia Banknote Featuring Dissident Poet Vasyl Stus

The National Bank of Ukraine has introduced a new 2,000-hryvnia banknote featuring Ukrainian dissident poet Vasyl Stus. The introduction of this high-denomination note is linked to changes in the economy, rising incomes and prices, an increase in cash circulation, and shifts in the structure of cash holdings.

The new banknote boasts over 20 security elements, including the optically variable SPARK feature that changes color when viewed from different angles. It also features a unique Anima Colour 'windowed' security thread, the world's first polychrome animated thread to enhance security.

The NBU stresses this introduction is not related to an increase in counterfeiting. In fact, as of early June 2026, there were only 1.1 counterfeit hryvnia banknotes per 1 million genuine notes, compared to 14 counterfeit euro banknotes per 1 million genuine notes according to the European Central Bank.

The 2,000-hryvnia note is meant to address rising demand for cash, particularly in wartime areas where communications and infrastructure may be disrupted. With Ukraine's average monthly salary tripling and prices doubling since 2019, more than 30 1,000-hryvnia banknotes are now needed to cover an average transaction.

The NBU assures the introduction of this new note will not increase inflation or impact the foreign exchange market as it will be issued in exchange for non-cash funds or other banknotes. This move is expected to reduce production costs, storage, and transportation expenses by replacing two 1,000-hryvnia notes with one 2,000-hryvnia note.