Solana co-founder Anatoly Yakovenko has recently stated that the claim that Layer-2 solutions inherit Ethereum's security is incorrect. This assertion is the latest in a series of critiques Yakovenko has leveled against L2 scaling solutions, arguing that Layer-1 blockchains like Solana can provide superior speed, cost-efficiency, and security without the added complexity of L2s.

Yakovenko's argument centers on the belief that L2s depend heavily on the Layer-1 for data availability, potentially leading to intricate fraud proofs and multi-signature updates. He contends that Solana avoids these issues with its efficient base layer that separates execution and data layers. He has also criticized the reliance on permissioned multi-signature arrangements in many Ethereum L2 platforms, which he believes concentrates authority over bridge contracts and threatens decentralization.

In a recent post on X, Yakovenko argued that over the five-year Layer 2 roadmap, Ethereum circulating on the Solana network via Wormhole faces the same extreme risks as Ethereum on the Base network, and the returns brought to Ethereum Layer 1 validators are at the same level. "From any perspective, the statement that 'L2 inherits ETH security' does not hold true," he stated.

Yakovenko has also previously stated that there is no reason to build an L2, as L1s can be faster, cheaper, and more secure. He elaborated that L2s are often slowed down by a "glacially moving L1 data availability stack" or have to compromise security with complex fraud proofs and upgrade multisigs. He suggested that developers might even skip creating a "valueless L2" and simply launch a token.

These comments align with his broader perspective that only a few important smart contracts exist, making the proliferation of L2s somewhat redundant. He has also claimed that L2s act "parasitically" by perpetuating their language ecosystems to the detriment of the L1.

However, his views are not without opposition. Ethereum co-founder Joseph Lubin has stated that Ethereum's future lies in L2 scaling networks, highlighting the security and readiness of L2s to build on the Ethereum platform as key benefits.

Furthermore, Yakovenko sparked debate recently by claiming that Ethereum is now a Solana Layer 2 blockchain. He argued that wrapped SOL on Ethereum relies on Solana for security, effectively flipping the traditional narrative. He pointed out that when Solana is wrapped to ETH, a bridge locks Solana and mints wSOL on Ethereum and that unwrapping requires verification that the burn on Ethereum corresponds to a release on Solana. Yakovenko argues this makes Solana the "settlement layer," with Ethereum acting as a Layer-2 solution.

These statements have ignited discussions about blockchain scalability, security, and the true settlement layer. While Ethereum currently leads Solana in daily chain fees, Solana's integration with platforms like the Uniswap Web App and its rapid processing speeds continue to position it as a strong contender in the blockchain space.