Problematic aspects of control over the illicit trafficking of goods from the Donetsk-occupied territories

This article investigates contemporary trends in contraband activities as a cause of the destabilization of the economic system of Ukraine, which is exacerbated by military conflict. Most of the export-import goods flows in Ukraine are contraband in nature, which has a negative impact on the development of the domestic economy, not only destabilizing the domestic market but leading to corruption in state and local governments. The theoretical and methodological aspects of investigations of contraband, including the impact of military conflict, are analyzed in the context of Ukraine’s economic security. The criteria for evaluating customs security related to the fight against contraband are identified, the methods to combat contraband are discussed, and the statistical indicators of contraband from the Donetsk region are determined.