Political scientist Ihor Eyterovych discussed the developing crisis around Rada TV—the parliamentary television channel—and Ukraine’s United News telethon. He noted that the production company Kinokit, which previously supplied content for Rada, has ceased operations: most staff have been laid off, studios and rented premises emptied, and equipment removed. Since December 31, Rada has not aired original content and now only broadcasts the telethon, sourcing materials from other TV channels.
This situation stems from both a lack of budget funding through creative competitions and uncertainty about the channel’s function—its main task being to cover the work of the Verkhovna Rada. There have been ongoing issues with exclusive government perspectives and a lack of opposition voices on air, which has drawn criticism from Ukraine’s Western partners.
Other telethon contributors face similar financial and organizational strains, leading to layoffs and salary cuts across the industry. Eyterovych also highlighted debates over the necessity of maintaining the telethon given its falling ratings and the increasing popularity of independent YouTube channels as alternative sources of information.
The discussion has turned to whether the telethon should be reformed or discontinued after the war, though funding for 2026 is already allocated. The key strategic question for Ukraine is whether to preserve the current model or transition to a more open information policy as part of its EU integration process.