In a recent online discussion, Solana (SOL) co-founder Anatoly Yakovenko launched a sharp critique against Ethereum's Layer 2 (L2) networks, questioning their security and decentralization. On October 27, 2025, Yakovenko stated on X that the claim that Ethereum L2s inherit the security of Layer 1 is "completely unfounded", emphasizing that these networks have significant weaknesses. He pointed out that L2s rely on multi-signature arrangements, allowing funds to be moved without user approval, and their complex code structures make full security audits nearly impossible. "It's been 5 years since Layer 2 was introduced, but its problems are still unresolved," he added, highlighting ongoing concerns about the attack surface and decentralization.
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin responded to these criticisms the previous day, on October 26, 2025, by reaffirming Ethereum's security core. Buterin explained that even a 51% attack cannot make an invalid block valid, ensuring user funds remain safe unless validators act outside Ethereum's control. "A key property of a blockchain is that even a 51% attack *cannot make an invalid block valid*," he stated on X, noting that this protection extends to L2 networks that depend on Ethereum's underlying security. Buterin also referenced his prior proposal to automate responses to such attacks, aiming to counteract censorship automatically.
The exchange hints at a broader rivalry, with Yakovenko proposing a bridge that could connect Ethereum as an L2 to Solana, suggesting it might bypass Ethereum's security issues. However, Buterin's defense underscores Ethereum's dominance, with top L2s like Arbitrum (ARB) and Optimism (OP) holding over $35 billion in locked value. Despite Solana's earlier performance gains, it has lagged behind Ethereum by 10% since late September, adding context to the competitive dynamics.
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