At the initiative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, an updated model of diplomatic license plates has been introduced in Ukraine, reflecting modern security and diplomatic realities.

The relevant changes have been incorporated into the Unified Model of Vehicle License Plates, approved by Order No. 166 of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine dated March 2, 2021. On April 3, 2026, the issuance of the new diplomatic license plates according to the updated model commenced.

The first license plates have already been received by members of the foreign diplomatic corps. The issuance took place at one of the capital's MIA service centers, with the participation of Oleksandr Malysh, Head of the Main Service Center of the MIA, his First Deputy Ruslan Zhuk, as well as representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine and the diplomatic corps.

The update of diplomatic license plates is part of a systematic effort to streamline this sector and align it with the norms of the Vienna Conventions on Diplomatic and Consular Relations.

The new license plates feature an olive color, which is a deliberate choice. Olive is traditionally associated with diplomacy, symbolizing peace and mutual understanding. In today's context, it is also the color of resilience — the color of our defenders' uniforms.

This decision also carries significant security weight, particularly in countering instances of the misuse of diplomatic license plates. Furthermore, it is part of a broader state policy aimed at completely eliminating the presence of the aggressor state, Russia, from all spheres where it persisted due to the inertia of the past.

"As of today, Ukraine has new diplomatic license plates. This is more than just a technical change; it is about a shift in reality. Previously, the first diplomatic number belonged to the aggressor state, Russia. Today, this has been corrected. We are bringing order — systematically and uncompromisingly removing Russia from everywhere it still remained. Now, the first number is assigned to the diplomats of our key partner. This is an honest reflection of reality, free from the inertia of the past, and an indicator of the real changes in international support for Ukraine," emphasized Andrii Sybiha, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.

The implementation of the new diplomatic license plate model serves as an example of a consistent state policy directed at strengthening institutional capacity, increasing security standards, and establishing modern approaches within the field of diplomatic protocol.

Oleksandr Malysh, Head of the Main Service Center of the MIA, noted: "The introduction of the new diplomatic license plate format is not only a visual update but also an improvement in accounting and control processes. We are working to ensure that all procedures are transparent, clear, and do not create any difficulties for users."