Ukrainian clinical trial sites demonstrate growing research activity and readiness for new international clinical trials

The European Business Association Clinical Trials Subcommittee has released the results of its annual survey on the status of clinical trial sites (CT sites/sites) in Ukraine. The survey included 97 clinical trial sites across 16 regions. Despite the ongoing war, clinical trial sites across Ukraine continue to operate effectively, maintain continuity of clinical trials, and remain ready to support new international research initiatives.

Ukrainian clinical trial sites continue to demonstrate operational resilience. Among sites currently conducting clinical trials, 100% confirmed their ability to maintain uninterrupted trial operations. Overall, 92% of surveyed sites are currently conducting active clinical trials.

At the same time, operational workload has decreased. The proportion of CT sites reporting a low workload rose from 20% in 2025 to 45% in 2026. This suggests that sites have additional capacity to accommodate new studies and expand participation in international clinical research.

While overall logistics performance remains strong, the survey identified several changes in this area. The supply of investigational medicinal products remains stable, with 90% of sites rating it as adequate. Likewise, 85% of respondents assessed biosample export arrangements positively, while an additional 7% reported only minor challenges. 

Ukrainian CT sites also maintain high organizational readiness. Ninety-three percent of surveyed sites are fully operational, 98% report having sufficient staff to conduct clinical trials, and all respondents confirmed the absence of operational challenges related to Local Ethics Committees. Particularly encouraging are the indicators of future growth. All surveyed CT sites confirmed their readiness to initiate new clinical trials, while 97% reported a high level of interest in participating in new projects. 

One of the clearest positive findings is the increase in research activity. While 80% of respondents conducted feasibility assessments for new studies in 2025, this figure rose to 88% in 2026. The number of sites with studies in the startup phase increased even more significantly, from 57% in 2025 to 78% in 2026. This trend may reflect a gradual recovery of international sponsors’ interest in Ukraine as a promising destination for clinical research.

Patient access also remains stable. Ninety percent of CT sites reported that their pool of potential study participants had not declined: 45% remained stable, and another 45% reported an increase. This confirms the competitive advantage of Ukrainian clinical trial sites in supporting efficient patient recruitment for international clinical trials. 

Clinical sites remain highly accessible for monitoring visits, presenting another key advantage. According to the survey, 97% of CT sites reported no restrictions on monitor access, demonstrating their openness to external quality oversight and continued compliance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards.