Since the start of martial law, military administrations have operated in Ukraine. Many people confuse them with councils and city administrations. Let us sort it out.
What they are
A military administration is a temporary body created for the duration of martial law to ensure defence, public security and order. The capital has the Kyiv City Military Administration, which works together with the city authorities.
How it differs
- The city council is an elected representative body. Its deputies are elected by residents.
- The KMDA is an executive body that runs the city’s services and carries out the council’s decisions.
- A military administration is created for the duration of martial law. It has special powers over defence, security and cooperation with the Defence Forces.
Who heads it
The head of a military administration is appointed by the President of Ukraine. So such administrations are part of the executive branch’s chain of command, not elected bodies.
What they do
They coordinate work with the Defence Forces, organise shelters, ensure public security and cooperate with services during shelling. Some matters, such as local budgets and municipal services, remain with the city authorities.
What this means for Kyivans
For everyday matters such as transport, utilities or education, you go to the city authorities. For security and defence matters, follow the official announcements of the military administration.
